About Advanced Clicker Training

Basic clicker training involves combining the clicker with the rewarding of treats to signal that a pet followed a particular command.  Advanced clicker training uses additional signals and techniques that broaden the basic training.  This type of training is successful because dogs associate the click sound with good behavior and a reward.  

Clicker

The clicker has a metal strip inside a small plastic box that makes a noticeable clicking sound when pressed.  The dog learns to associate the clicking sound with following a command and receiving a reward.  At the advanced stage, treats are usually phased out and positive praise is given in its place.  

Purpose

Advanced clicker training requires a training process that is more challenging than basic training.  Challenges include introducing additional stimuli, distractions, new locations and new signals.  Advanced clicker training is an important method of training a dog beyond simple commands and situations.  The end result is a dog that will be able to perform the requested command more easily and effectively without falling prey to distractions. 

Activity

Clicker training should be an ongoing activity so that your dog is constantly learning.  To help your dog remember what it has learned, you should always reinforce positive behavior.    After your training session has ended, ask your dog to perform a command that it can do well. When it has successfully performed the command, click and give it a big reward.  Ending with a big reward will have it looking forward to training next time you take out the clicker.

Time Frame

The time frame involved in advanced clicker training will depend largely on your training skills and your dog’s willingness to learn.  Do not expect to have your dog trained in a single day.