FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The Equine Clicker Show (TECS) is an organizaiton that promotes community & support for equine trainers who utilize R+/clicker trianing, by offering a network of likeminded trainers, structured goals, vauable judge's feedback, & a competitive outlet. Learn more about TECS & our mission.

TECS virtual competition accepts rolling entries, meaning you can submit your entries anytime within the open window. Important dates for the 2023 Show Year (Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2023) include: - Feb 1 - Nov 1, 2023: Entries Accepted - Thurs, Nov 16, 2023: Year-End Awards

All equines & their R+ trainers are welcome to compete in TECS competition! TECS defines equines as any horse, donkey, zebra, or hybrid thereof. TECS competitors are any human trainer, rider, or handler.

TECS offers an annual virtual competition open to all clicker trainers & their equines. Competitors & equines perform behaviors as prescribed in a rubric, are judged on each behavior as well as their overall performance, and earn a percent score. Judges provide valuable feedback along with scoring. Based on their score, competitors earn real, high-quality ribbons for each performance. Competitors can also win high-quality ribbons, trophies, and prizes at our annual Year-End Awards Banquet. We have a variety of classes - from basic nose targets, hoof targeting, stationing, and reverse roundpen, all the way to advanced dressage, jumping, trail, and gymkhana. See our Levels, Divisions, and Classes. We are friendly to ridden & non-ridden equines - all foundations classes are offered for liberty/ground handling and advance classes have options for completion at liberty/on the ground or under saddle.

TECS defines the following types of handling: Liberty: the equine is tackless and no physical contact is made between equine and competitor, except for reinforcement In hand: the equine wears a bridle, halter, or neckrope. Physical contact is permitted between equine and competitor Ridden: the competitor performs mounted

"Pressure" is often used in traditional training as a synonym for aversive stimulus (ie, "pressure/release"). TECS does not permit use of this form of "pressure." "Pressure" can also be defined as tactile/touch stimulus, which is not inherently aversive. TECS permits use of tactile "pressure" as cues under the following conditions: Regulations on Tactile Cues: Tactile cues must be featherlite, non-escalating, and non-aversive. Tactile cues are not permitted during liberty handling, and are permitted but not encouraged during ridden competition. Riders will not be penalized for use of tactile cues, but any sign of escalation or aversiveness may result in a score of zero (0) for the movement and elimination

Competitors are encouraged to click & treat at their discretion. Ideally, competitors should click & treat at the end of each test behavior or anytime less frequently. Clicking mid-behavior results in a penalty. For example: If the behavior is to make a complete circle, and the competitor must click & reinforce twice for two half circles, that would result in a penalty for each extra click Competitors are permitted to pause after reinforcement, if needed, to allow chewing, etc. The equine should remain calm and focused during this pause.

TECS does not require fancy or professional facilities. Guidelines in place are there to meet safety standards and are flexible so that competitors can make their facilities work for competition. Arenas: TECS requires performances to take place in an "arena" - which does not have to be a traditional arena. Arenas must have safe fence to contain loose equines Arenas should be clear of unnecessary obstacles (with the exception of Trail Arenas, seethe handbook or other FAQ for more details) All arenas should have safe footing Protective Contact: any arena that provides a barrier between the equine and competitor. Protective contact barriers should safely contain the equine and prevent harm to the handler. Full Contact: any arena where there is no barrier between equine and competitor.

TECS does not require formal turnout, but does expect competitors to be clean, tidy, and safe. Regulations for Equine Turnout Grooming: Equines should be clean and tidy. Whiskers may not be trimmed. Clipping is discouraged, except in cases of veterinary necessity. Ears, fetlocks, and any areas that touch equipment may not be clipped without veterinary necessity. Equipment: Equipment must meet the class requirements. Equipment should be clean, tidy, and safe. Regulations for Competitor Turnout Helmets: ASTM/SEI certified helmets are required at all times. Attire: Attire must be clean, tidy, and safe. ASTM/SEI certified impact vests are encouraged at all times and required when riding. Closed-toed shoes must be worn at all times. Professional turnout is encouraged when possible, as is appropriate for the class and the equine/competitor pair.

Specializations are the style or type of competition in which an equine & competitor perform. In traditional equestrianism, these are sometimes called "disciplines." TECS has four specializations: Dressage: Specializes in form on the flat (without obstacles), precision of communication, and equine body control. Jumping: Specializes in performance and form over jump obstacles. Trail: Specializes in skills used during trail riding. Gymkhana: Specializes in communication & performance during common rodeo-style games. These specializaitons are the divisions of competition in levels 2 & 3. In Level 2, the behaviors are performed on the ground (at liberty), in Level 3, the behaviors are performed ridden.

Yes! TECS is committed to making our community accessible to all. Rule exemptions and/or assistance are granted on a case-by-case basis, to ensure the specific needs of the competitor and/or equine are met. Please do not hesitate to Contact Us if you are having any accessibility issues, so we can help find a solution!

Clicker training goes by many names: Positive Reinforcement (R+ or +R) Fear-Free Evidence-Based Training Reward-Based Training & many more! TECS defines clicker training as a blanket term for training that utilizes principles from the Humane Heirarchy and LIMA. Training should be centered on positive reinforcement and the use of appetitive stimulus. Training should avoid or eliminate the use of aversive stimulus, fear, intimidation, and/or force. Definitions for these terms can be found in other sections of our FAQ.

The Humane Heirarchy is an "order of operations" (a step-by-step guide) for behavior modification (animal training). Trainers should start at the top (Wellness), and work through each step until the desired behavioral change occurs. The first three steps are for creating new behaviors (teaching behaviors, movements, tricks, etc.), as well as correcting undesirable behaviors. The last three steps should not be used to create behavior, but only to correct undesirable behaviors or in case of absolute necessity (competition & performance are not necesary, but veterinary care, equine or human safety, etc. are). More information can be found online, however this infographic was provided by Steph K Equestrian, to breifly outline the steps of the Humane Heirarchy:

LIMA is an acronym, which stands for:Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive All training & equipment fall on spectrums from least to most intrusive, as well as from appetitive (pleasant) stimulus to averisve (unpleasant) stimulus. LIMA helps trainers select more ethical methods by choosing training/equipment options that lean toward the least intrusive and minimally aversive side of those spectrums. Least Intrusive: Equipment & training methods that minimize intrusion on the equine's body & mind. Minimally Aversive: Equipment & training that minimizes aversivity on the equine. Equipment Example: If given the choice between a rope halter and flat halter, the flat halter increases pressure distribution, which decreases the amount of pressure on the horse's face if used in the same way as the rope halter. LIMA would indicate selecting the flat halter. Equipment Example: If given the choice between a bit or bitless, the bit intrudes into the equine's body. LIMA would dictate use of the bitless. LIMA would also indicate mindfulness toward pressure distribution with both, to minimize aversiveness. Training Example: When teaching a horse to lead next to a handler, a halter & lead rope trained with pressure/release would utilize aversives and intrude on the horse's body. A nose target trained with R+ would be less intrusive on the equine's body, and minimize use of aversives. LIMA would indicate use of the target method.

Positive Reinforcement is a component of Operant Conditioning. Operant Conditioning describes consequence-based learning. The equine performs a behavior, which is followed by a consequence. This consequence shapes future behavior. Note: It is important to recognize that Antecedents hold more power over behavior than consequences. See the FAQ about ABC's for more info. Operant Conditioning identifies consequences using the following classifications: Behavioral Modifiers: Describe how the consequence impacts behavior Reinforcement: Causes an increase in the frequency of behaivor Punishment: Causes a decrease in the frequency of behavior Stimulus Modifiers: Describe how the consequence manipulates stimulus Positive: Adds a stimulus Negative: Removes a stimulus These modifiers are combined to make the "four quadrants" of operant conditioning: Positive Reinforcement: addition of a stimulus to encourage a behavior to happen Negative Reinforcement: removal of a stimulus to encourage a behavior to happen Positive Punishment: addition of a stimulus to discourage a behavior from happening Negative Punishment: removal of a stimulus to discourage a behavior from happening

There are three types of stimulus: Appetitive (Pleasant): Stimulus that is desired by the equine Aversive (Unpleasant): Stimulus that is undesirable to the equine Neutral: Stimulus that does not elicit a behavioral affect on the equine TECS defines clicker training as centering on use of appetitive stimulus and minimizing use of aversive stimulus. In context with Operant Conditioning: Positive reinforcement & negative punishment utilize appetitive stimulus (giving & withholding treats) Positive punishment & negative reinforcement utilize aversive stimulus (addition & release of pressure)

The ABC's are an acronym for the three phases withing an interaction:Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence An Antecedent is an external stimulus that precedes the behavior. Antecedents prompt behavior and cause it to happen. This has the biggest influence on what behavior the equine will exhibit. Antecedents can be helpful if they prompt desirable behavior Antecedents can be unhelpful if they prompt undesirable behavior Antecedents can be intentional if the handler/rider arranges for them to happen Antecedents can be unintentional if the handler/rider does not expect them A Behavior is the equine's response to the antecedent. Behavior is desirable if it is wanted by the handler/rider Behavior is undesirable if it is not wanted by the handler/rider Behavior is unconditioned, or innate, if it has not been shaped/taught Behavior is conditioned, or learned, if it has been shaped/taught Behavior is contingent on a variety of factors & influenced by: Wellness: The equine's physical and mental state, including the statusof their key needs (see the FAQ on Key Needs of Equines). Environment: Current surroundings, including any external stimulus (presence or possibilities of antecedents/consequences) Instinct: Any innate or unconditioned behavioral patterns Learning History: Any history of past consequences or other learning A Consequence is external stimulus that follows the behavior. Consequences shape future behavior in a variety of ways. Operant conditioning explains how consequences can increase or decrease frequency of behavior. It is important to not that although behavior is shaped by consequences, it is the antecedent that truely creates behavior. Consequences can be helpful if they shape desirable behavior Consequences can be unhelpful if they shape undesirable behavior Consequences can be intentional if the handler/rider does them on purpose Consequences can be unintentional if the handler/rider does them on accident

Classical Conditioning is association-based learning. Classical conditioning pairs two stimuli together to form an association between the two. The following infographic decribes the prinicples of classical conditioning

Force occurs in many traditional training methods. TECS trainers should minimize or eliminate use of force. The goal should be a willing equine partner and obedience should not rely on force. Force can be obvious - Physical Force uses ropes, restraints, or other ways to physcially manipulate the equine. This can typically be avoided by using LIMA principles. Force can also be less obvious - Psychological Force uses the threat of pain or restraint, punishment, and/or learned helplessness. This can typically be avoided by following the Humane Heirarchy. Lastly, force can be through Violation or Withholding of Key Needs. Examples may include withholding food before R+ training, use of pain to motivate, restricting movement/motion to increase energy level, limiting socialization to increase pleasant associations with humans, etc. This can be avoided by always giving the equine the option to easily return to an environment that meets all core needs - before, during, and after training.

TECS utilizes evidence-based principles for evaluating equine body language. Evidence-based evaluation of body laguage does not always match traditional evaluation. If you havent already learned evidence-based evaluation of body language, please refer to the following resources for more information: Calming Signals of Horses by Rachaël Draaisma - a book about equine body language Equine Pain Face - a description of what the equine face expresses when in pain/stressed Equine Pain Scale - a description of what the equine face expresses when in pain/stressed

Body Comfort is an important aspect of overall equine health. TECS considers quality of movement when judging competition performances. (See the handbook or "Scoring" FAQ for more info) Definitions for Equine Gaits Walk: an even, four-beat gait. Activity should begin with a hind foot. All four legs move independently. Trot: an even, two-beat gait. Diagonal pairs lift and touch down together, with the hind cannon bone remaining parallel to the opposite front forearm. Canter: a three-beat gait with a moment of suspension. Activity initiates in the hind end, the outside hind touches down, then the inside hind and outside front touch down together, then the inside front touches down, finally followed by the moment of suspension. A good canter is rhythmic & even. Additional Gait: any "gaited" gait, such as the foxtrot, pace, and tolt. Gaited equines are permitted to perform their gate in place of a trot. Definitions for Quality of Movement: All equines should move with rhythm, relaxation, and balance. Halts should be square, balanced, and stationary. Specific to ridden equines: ​​​​​​​Ridden equines should move forward from their hind end, with proper engagement of the haunches including even flexion of the hind joints. They should round upward through their back with their core engaged. The neck should be neither inverted nor hyperflexed, have a loose underneck, have the poll as the highest point (except sometimes in stretch), and the nose in front of the vertical.

Yes, TECS has specific equipment regulations. Definitions for equipment are provided in the handbook as well as this FAQ. Equipment Regulations for Liberty Handling (Levels 1 & 2) No worn equipment may be used, except in Trail classes where the equine is carrying and/or dragging objects. No physical contact is allowed, except for reinforcement. Targeting equipment is permitted and competitors are encouraged to complete the Level 1 classes specific to the targeting equipment before using it in other classes. Equipment Regulations for Ridden Handling (Level 3) Equipment Worn on the Head & Neck: Equines may wear a halter or bitless bridle, with or without neckrope, during competition. Using halters for steering, stopping, or as bitless bridles will result in elimination. Equipment Worn on the Back: All ridden equines must wear a saddle. Please see the handbook or "saddle" FAQ for details on permitted saddles & saddle fit aids. Other Worn Equipment: Other equipment may be allowed, as detailed in the handbook or "other worn equipment" FAQ.

The following worn equipment is permitted to be used in appropriate classes: Halter: A headcollar handled via a single lead rope, attached below the chin. Halters must be smooth, flat, and at least 1" wide. No chains, over-nose, or under-chin pressure devices are permitted. Bitless bridle: A headcollar handled via two reins, attached to a noseband. Nosebands should always allow a minimum of two fingers between it and the nasal bone and allow chewing. Nosebands should be properly fitted above the nasal ridge & below the cheekbone. Rein attachments may not create leverage. Neckrope: A rope that circles the equine's neck, handled on its own or by a single lead rope attached to it. The neckrope must be smooth without pressure points and at least 1" thick. Note: Worn equipment is only permitted in specific classes. Please see the handbook or other FAQ for more details.

The following worn equipment is permitted to be used in appropriate classes: Saddle: any seat placed on the horse's back for riding. Saddles must have adequate spinal clearance Saddles must be properly fitted to the equine and the competitor Lack of spinal clearance, obvious signs of poor saddle fit, and/or clear signs of back pain during riding are not permitted Stirrups must have safety release Types of Saddles Treed Saddle: a back-covering with tree and stirrups Treeless Saddle: a back-covering without tree, with stirrups Bareback Saddle: a back-covering without tree nor stirrups Other Saddle Fit Definitions Spinal Clearance: air above the entire spinal column Note: Not to be confused with spinal relief, which may be a crease or partial channel that decreases pressure but does not provide clearance Pressure Distribution: flush, even distribution of pressure within the equine's weight-bearing area Padding/Firmness: the surface against the horse's skin should be softer than the muscles of the horse's back Saddle Fit Aids: any girths, cinches, breastplates, croupers, padding, or other pieces of equipment that aid it the fit and stability of the saddle Saddle fit aids must not impede or alter movement Saddle fit aids must be properly fitted to the equine Saddle fit aids must be smooth with adequate pressure distribution Note: Worn equipment is only permitted in specific classes. Please see the handbook or other FAQ for more details.

The following worn equipment is permitted to be used in appropriate classes: Leg Supports: any boots, wraps, or other supports placed on the legs. Leg supports must not impede or alter movement, must be properly fitted to the equine, and must be smooth with adequate pressure distribution. Note: Worn equipment is only permitted in specific classes. Please see the handbook or other FAQ for more details.

TECS has regulations for targeting equipment. Regulations on Dynamic Targets: Dynamic targets are any target that moves during interactions. Hand Targets: Any position of the hand where the equine targets to the competitor's hand. The handler may also hold an object in their hand to be targeted, which must be no more than twice the size of their fist. Target Sticks: Any object that is no larger than twice the size of the handler's fist, attached to the end of a stick. The stick must be semirigid or rigid. The stick should be between one-half to three times the length of the competitor's arm (shoulder to wrist). Telescoping sticks are permitted, their length must adhere to the length rule at all times and may be adjusted throughout competition. Regulations on Stationary Targets: Stationary targets are any target that remains stationary during interactions. Stationary Nose Target: Any target that remains stationary for the equine to target with their nose. Mat Target: Any target that is intended to remain stationary while the equine targets it with their hooves. Mats should be safe for equine interactions and no more than 6 inches off the ground. Sizes of mats should be as follows:

A Reverse Roundpen is a protective contact tool that clicker trainers use for working on movement & gaits at liberty. Regulations on Reverse Roundpens: A reverse roundpen must be a circular fence A reverse roundpen must provide a safe barrier between equine and competitor A reverse roundpen should be between 10 and 30 meters in diameter The equine must stay on the outside of the roundpen at all times The competitor should remain inside the roundpen when it is in use The reverse roundpen should be inside a safe, enclosed, flat arena that is clear of other obstacles and has safe footing

TECS performances are scored on a rubric, which can be found on the Rubrics Page or in the Handbook. Behavior Scores: Each behavior in the performance is scored on a scale from 0-10, using the following scale. 0 - Rule break, resulting in elimination 1 - Behavior not attempted (no distinct cue given) 2 - Behavior cued but not completed 3 - Behavior cued and attempted, but not completed 4 - Behavior nearly completed or completed very poorly 5 - Behavior completed 6 - Behavior performed well 7 - Behavior performed very well 8 - Behavior performed exceptionally well 9 - Behavior performed near perfectly 10 - Behavior performed perfectly Overall Scores: Each rubric contains the ability to earn up to 10 marks via "Overall Scores," which are graded on completion throughout the entire performance. If a score is accomplished, it is checked and earns one point. If not, it is left unchecked and no points are earned. Each score opportunity is as follows: Equine Overall - These scores reflect the equine's performance. Relaxation: The equine is relaxed through face and body. There is no tension, anxiety, or fear in the equine's body language. Willingness: The equine is attentive and responds quickly to the competitor's cues. Attempts are made to fulfill all cues. Precision: The equine's responses to cues are prompt, accurate, and complete, without unnecessary behaviors or movement. Movement: The equine is balanced at all times. All movement has rhythm. (See Handbook or Quality of Movement FAQ for more info). Turnout: The equine is clean and tidy. Their equipment is clean and tidy. (See Handbook or Turnout FAQ for more info). Competitor Overall - These scores reflect the competitor's performance. Relaxation: The competitor is relaxed and calm. Confidence: The competitor is confident and prepared. Communication: The competitor gives clear, distinct cues. Attunement: The competitor is attentive to the equine, aware of their behavior & emotional state, and responds appropriately. Turnout: The competitor is clean and tidy. (See Handbook or Turnout FAQ for more info). The total points earned from Behavioral Scores & Overall Scores is then divided by the total possible score, to earn a Percent Score. The percent score is used for determining awards status.

Competitors can earn awards in a variety of ways. Class Awards: For each class entered, competitors may earn a flat ribbon of the appropriate color & award title, depending on the percentage earned. Division Awards: Each competitor who earns a ribbon for every class in a division will recieve a rosette of the appropriate color & award title for the average percentage earned. Year-End Awards: Each Each Competitive Member is automatically entered into Year-End Awards. Year-End Awards include large rosettes and trophies. Year-End Awards are given for the following: Division Awards: Given to the competitors with the highest average scores within each division. Scores are calculated by taking each class score divided by the total number of classes in the division. Level Awards: Given to the competitors with the highest average scores within each level. Scores are calculated by taking each class score divided by the total number of classes in the level. Specialization Awards: Given to the competitors with the highest average scores within each specialization, across all levels. Scores are calculated by taking each class score divided by the total number of classes in the specialization. Competitor Awards Sportsmanship Awards: Sportsmanship awards are given to competitors who show exemplary sportsmanship. Anyone is welcome to nominate competitors for sportsmanship awards via the TECS website's feedback page. Partnership Awards: Given to equine-competitor pairs who demonstrate outstanding partnership throughout the competitive season. Versatility Awards: Given to competitors who demonstrate outstanding versatility in handling multiple different equines, levels, and/or specializations. Other: Anyone is welcome to suggest other awards via the TECS website's feedback page and additional awards may be added throughout the year. Sponsors are welcome to donate award titles. Equine Awards Overall Equine Awards: Given to one or more equine(s) that demonstrate outstanding achievement, for example, by earning the highest number of ribbons overall, highest scores overall, or performing with a variety of different competitors. Other: Depending on entry numbers, awards may be given for outstanding equines within specific divisions, levels, or specializations, as well as versatility awards.

For each class entered, competitors may earn a flat ribbon of the appropriate color & award title, depending on the percentage earned. 90-100% / First - Blue 80-89% / Second - Red 70-79% / Third - Yellow 60-69% / Fourth - White 50-59% / Fifth - Pink 40-49% / Sixth - Green

Each competitor who earns a ribbon for every class in a division will recieve a rosette of the appropriate color & award title for the average percentage earned. 90-100% / First - Blue 80-89% / Second - Red 70-79% / Third - Yellow 60-69% / Fourth - White 50-59% / Fifth - Pink 40-49% / Sixth - Green

Year-End Awards: Each Each Competitive Member is automatically entered into Year-End Awards. Year-End Awards include large rosettes, trophies, and prizes. Year-End Awards are given for the following: Division Awards: Given to the competitors with the highest average scores within each division. Scores are calculated by taking each class score divided by the total number of classes in the division. Level Awards: Given to the competitors with the highest average scores within each level. Scores are calculated by taking each class score divided by the total number of classes in the level. Specialization Awards: Given to the competitors with the highest average scores within each specialization, across all levels. Scores are calculated by taking each class score divided by the total number of classes in the specialization. Competitor Awards Sportsmanship Awards: Sportsmanship awards are given to competitors who show exemplary sportsmanship. Anyone is welcome to nominate competitors for sportsmanship awards via the TECS website's feedback page. Partnership Awards: Given to equine-competitor pairs who demonstrate outstanding partnership throughout the competitive season. Versatility Awards: Given to competitors who demonstrate outstanding versatility in handling multiple different equines, levels, and/or specializations. Other: Anyone is welcome to suggest other awards via the TECS website's feedback page and additional awards may be added throughout the year. Sponsors are welcome to donate award titles. Equine Awards Overall Equine Awards: Given to one or more equine(s) that demonstrate outstanding achievement, for example, by earning the highest number of ribbons overall, highest scores overall, or performing with a variety of different competitors. Other: Depending on entry numbers, awards may be given for outstanding equines within specific divisions, levels, or specializations, as well as versatility awards.

When a penalty occurs, points are deducted from the movement score during which the penalty occured. Penalties are applied for the following: Reinforcing Mid-Behavior The trainer must reinforce more than once per behavior In other words, they split the overall behavior into smaller pieces Penalty: -2 points Equine Refusal ​​​​​​​The equine leaves the performance The equine performs a conflict behavior (biting, bucking, rearing, kicking, striking, a trained "no" consent cue, etc) Penalty: -2 points Elimination occurs at the discretion of the judge. Under some circumstances, the judge may allow the competitor to submit a new performance for rejudging. Penalty Elimination: removal of 10 points due to penalties results in elimination Overall Score Elimination: an Overall Score Total of 5 or less results in elimination