Clicker training has been used with marine mammals for
years, and is a clear, effective way to communicate with
your dog. A clicker is a small plastic box that makes a
clicking sound when pressed. The click acts as a marker
to let your dog know the exact moment he is doing what
you want.
Why would your dog care if you click? Because each click
is followed by a treat! Dogs learn quickly that “click equals
treat,” so they try to figure out how to make us humans
“click.” Once your dog figures out how to play the game
and is repeating the behavior you are clicking, you can
add your cue. It is a great way to let you know that your
dog now understands what you are trying to communicate
to them. You can also use a target stick (as shown in the
picture), which is also a great way to teach your dog
behaviors. Targeting is often used with behavior
modification.
Tip: Your treats should be cut up into small pieces as
shown in the picture on the right; it should be no bigger
than the end of a pencil eraser tip, or even smaller for
small dogs. Treats should also be soft and easy to chew
instead of crunchy, as crunch treats will take more time for
your dog to chew, which can slow up the training process.
years, and is a clear, effective way to communicate with
your dog. A clicker is a small plastic box that makes a
clicking sound when pressed. The click acts as a marker
to let your dog know the exact moment he is doing what
you want.
Why would your dog care if you click? Because each click
is followed by a treat! Dogs learn quickly that “click equals
treat,” so they try to figure out how to make us humans
“click.” Once your dog figures out how to play the game
and is repeating the behavior you are clicking, you can
add your cue. It is a great way to let you know that your
dog now understands what you are trying to communicate
to them. You can also use a target stick (as shown in the
picture), which is also a great way to teach your dog
behaviors. Targeting is often used with behavior
modification.
Tip: Your treats should be cut up into small pieces as
shown in the picture on the right; it should be no bigger
than the end of a pencil eraser tip, or even smaller for
small dogs. Treats should also be soft and easy to chew
instead of crunchy, as crunch treats will take more time for
your dog to chew, which can slow up the training process.
Patricia Calderone, CPDT-KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer Behavior Consultant 708-557-4913 patricia@clickercanines.com |
Contact me today to schedule your appointment, the first step towards a customized training plan for you and your dog! |
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