How to Understand Clicker Training
Clicker training is a very effective tool that can be used to train your dog. The clicker itself is a small plastic hand-held device that normally has a piece of metal inside with an opening for you to use your thumb to push when you want the “click” sound. Many people become confused when to “click” and this can hinder training.
- Purchase a clicker from any local
pet store or online. They come in different styles and designs as
well as costs. There is no need for a fancy or expensive clicker,
especially when you are just starting your training. - Use the clicker to reinforce a
behavior. For instance, you use the word, “Sit” and when your
dog sits, you press the clicker one time. In the beginning, he will
not understand what the clicker sound is or what it means, but as
you repeat this in training, he will begin to make the connection. - Use the clicker only during training. Never allow a child to play with
the clicker, as this will confuse your dog. The clicker is to be used
during training times only so that your dog begins to understand
when he does what you want he will hear a click. - Use your voice along with the
clicker to make the training even more effective. For instance, you
use the word “Sit” and your dog sits, you click once, and praise
him, “Good boy.” The more you reinforce so that he understands
what you want, the more effective the training. In time, you will
not need to use the clicker as your dog will respond to the command
“Sit” without any reinforcement.