Professor Mary Lou Hanlon

Mary Lou Hanlon has been in the sport of dogs for the past 17 years earning many placements and wins. She has competed in regional and national events and has been a finalist in the USDAA, AKC and Canadian AAC national championships and winner of the Canadian national Steeplechase. She has also represented the U.S. in the European Open. Her dogs have earned both obedience championships, (OTCH) as well as agility championships, (MACH ,ADCH and silver ADCH). Currently she competes with her 3 border collies Snap, Wizard and Shazam.

Mary Lou, is the developer of the “Hit It!” board running contact trainer, the “Touch It!” 2 on 2 off nose touch contact trainer, “Tug It!” tug trainer, “Squiggle It!” tug toy and the “Move It!” A-frame mover. These products are used by top dog trainers throughout the world. All of these products along with other innovative dog training products can be viewed and purchased at www.hititboard.com. Mary Lou’s students range from toy dogs to large breeds, young inexperienced teams, as well as teams competing right up thru the excellent/masters division. She is based in Warren, New Jersey.

Mary Lou’s philosophical approach to dog training is to keep the handlers relationship with the dog and the dog’s attitude the highest priority. She incorporates games, treats and toys as integral tools in training. Mary Lou believes in breaking down each behavior to its smallest component ensuring that both dog and handler clearly understand what to do. This approach makes sure that the dog is set up for success and becomes confident in all areas of performance to maximize speed and accuracy. Her teaching style also instills confidence in the handler allowing them to feel that they can be the best partner possible for their dog.