In the world of dog training, clicker training stands out as a powerful and effective method for communicating with your canine companion. Originating from techniques used in marine animal training, clicker training involves using a distinct sound—a click—to mark desired behaviours instantly. This method provides dogs with clear and immediate feedback, making it easier for them to understand what they're being rewarded for. By associating the click with a treat through a process called "charging the clicker," you create a reliable way to communicate praise and reinforcement, setting the stage for productive training sessions. Let's explore how clicker training can transform your dog's learning experience and strengthen your bond.
What is clicker training?
Clicker training means using a sound (a click) to communicate with your dog. Clickers have been in use for more than forty years. The method is best known from the world of marine animal training where people need a way to communicate with animals like dolphins and areas that can't be controlled physically.
How does it work?
It is fabulously simple. First we teach the dog that the click means he has won a treat. Then we use the click to tell the dog when he has done something we like. Essentially: When your dog does what you want him to do-like a sit or a down-you click and give him a treat. This gives your dog instant, specific feedback. You can tell a child you will take him out for ice cream tomorrow because he earned good grades today.
A dog, on the other hand, needs immediate pointers to help him understand what behaviour he is being rewarded for. A clicker is the perfect tool for this.
Charging the clicker.
Or teaching that click means treat.
Grab a handful of really yummy treats cut into small pieces.
Every time you click, give your dog a treat (be careful not to click and treat at the same time; the treat must follow the click, not precede or coincide with it).
Do this standing up, sitting down, while moving about, indoors, outdoors. Basically, make sure your dog understands that the click means treat in all situations.
Do the exercise a few times a day for a few minutes at a time until, when you click, you notice that your dog is eagerly anticipating the treat.
Don't give away that a treat is coming except with the click. For example, be careful not to reach for a treat, point the clicker toward the dog, or reach toward him with the treat before you click. Train yourself to insert a count or a word before you hand over the treat: Click. One one thousand. Treat.
Clicker rules.
Click once. If you click you must treat. The clicker is not a remote control. Don't use it to call your dog to you.
Training Tip :
Some dogs are startled by the sound of the clicker. If your dog shows any signs of discomfort (shies away, leaves the room) wrap the clicker in a towel or a sock to muffle the noise. Try again, and when your dog clearly shows he enjoys the exercise, unwrap the clicker a little at a time.
In essence, clicker training offers a clear and immediate way to communicate with your dog, reinforcing desired behaviours with precision. By mastering the click-treat association and following clicker rules consistently, you empower your dog to learn effectively and enjoy the training process.