Teaching your pet new behaviours is a lot of fun. It is also a great way to bond with your furry friend. If you are a dog parent looking for new ways to teach them new behaviours, clicker training is a great way forward. If you use a clicker, you can tell your dog that it has done exactly what you want, at that very moment. Clicker training is a valuable tool that clarifies to the dog that they are exhibiting the correct behaviour.
When you are training your dog, you can use the clicker's sound to mark the correct behavior at that moment. Over time, an association builds between the command, the click, and the reward. This helps confirm to the dog that they have performed the precise task.
What Is Clicker Training?
Clicker training is also known as marker training. You use the clicker to mark the desired behavior. The sound of each click acts like a reward for your dog. Because of this, you do not always need to use food or treats to reward your dog.
Once the dog associates the clicks with good outcomes, your dog will try to replicate behaviors that result in the click. When your dog goes over a command with a clicker a few times, it can help make it easier for the dog to perform the trick or remain in the position you need them to be.
Understanding Operant Conditioning
Ivan Pavlov introduced Operant Conditioning through a series of experiments with dogs, which included the use of a bell to indicate when they would be fed. During this experiment, he noticed that if he made the dogs wait, they would start to drool. Over time, he was able to add the sound of the bell before showing the food or treats to the dogs. Eventually, he could ring the bell without any treats or food and get them to drool.
This process, called Operant Conditioning, shows how dogs can expect specific outcomes in the presence of a stimulus. In clicker training, the clicker sound becomes the bell.
How To Introduce Clicker Training To Your Dog?
The first and foremost step is to get your dog used to the clicker's sound as a reward. Only after the clicker’s sound is accepted as a reward by your dog can you reduce the use of food rewards in training sessions.
In clicker training, consistency is key. You should always press the clicker at the exact moment when your dog complies with your command.
Initially, focus on introducing the clicker and establishing its meaning. You don’t need to worry about commands at this stage. Always start by using a handful of treats and pressing the clicker whenever you give your dog a treat. This helps make the clicker sound a positive one for your dog, as they associate it with a reward.
Using A Clicker to Teach Your Dog A Command
Once your dog understands that the ‘click’ sound means it's time to get a reward, you can move on to teaching commands with the clicker.
For example, to teach your dog to “sit”:
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Say the word “sit”
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Gently guide your dog into the sitting posture with love and care (never be aggressive)
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Immediately press the clicker once your dog sits
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Give a treat after the click
Repeat this several times so your dog builds an association between the command “sit,” the click sound, and the reward.
Once your dog consistently sits on command, you can gradually phase out the clicker and use praise instead. Many trainers use the word “Yes!” as a verbal marker. Always accompany praise with treats during training for best results.
Tips for Effective Clicker Training
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Timing is crucial: Click exactly when your dog performs the desired behavior and give the treat immediately after.
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Reward every time: In the early stages, each click must be followed by a guaranteed treat. If you accidentally click, reward your dog anyway.
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Keep treats small: Break treats into tiny pieces since you’ll be giving many rewards.
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End on a positive note: Always finish training sessions with a successful behavior, a click, a treat, and lots of praise.
Conclusion
Clicker training is a fun, clear, and effective way to teach your dog new behaviors while strengthening your bond. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your furry friend can quickly learn commands and tricks.
For professional guidance, Zigly offers certified pet trainers who can tailor training sessions to your dog’s needs. Explore Zigly’s pet training services today and make training a rewarding experience for both you and your pet!
For pet training needs, certified pet trainers are highly recommended. You can book a session at Zigly, check the wide range of professional pet training services or take your furry to a vet for more information
