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Mary Hunter and her horse Apollo


On this site I share stories of my animal training adventures, information about the science of animal training and behavior, and tips and advice to help you improve your training.

Join me as we explore the best training strategies for creating fast learning, effective communication, and enthusiastic, willing animals.

If you’re new to Stale Cheerios, I recommend that you start by visiting this page to learn more about Stale Cheerios and that you visit my Top Posts page.

~Mary Hunter

Recent posts from the StaleCheerios blog

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Chewie’s Diary Week 42: Barn time

By on November 27, 2025 in Chewie’s Diary

Chewie has now been at the new barn for two months. She and her buddy Liberty have been living in the largest pasture on the property. They have room to roam and a run-in shelter to protect them from bad weather. There’s also plenty of room in the pasture for training! Chewie and Liberty. You […]

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Chewie’s Diary Week 39: APDT 2025

By on November 6, 2025 in Chewie’s Diary

I have been on the road this week! I’m in Richmond, Virginia, for the 2025 APDT annual convention. APDT is the Association for Professional Dog Training. Opening presentation at APDT 2025 On Tuesday this week, Dr. Jesús Rosales-Ruiz and I gave a six-hour workshop about shaping. We had a great time with the workshop attendees. […]

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Chewie’s Diary Week 38: Friendships

By on October 30, 2025 in Chewie’s Diary

It’s interesting watching animal friendships develop! Chewie and Liberty are definitely becoming friends, which I’m very happy about. My slow introduction process gave them time to start getting to know each other. Now, they have been living in the same pasture together for a couple of weeks. And, they seem like they are enjoying each […]

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