Bringing a new puppy into the family is a magical thing. It’s an exciting time for both parents and children. Unfortunately, getting a puppy means lots of training and work. You rarely get a fully potty-trained dog that does whatever commands you need them to do. If you want to speed up the training process, you can use clicker training for your dog.
Another option is to work with a dog trainer specializing in clicker training.
What is clicker training?
A clicker is a small device with a button that you hold in your hand. When the button is pressed, it makes a loud clicking noise. The goal of clicker training is to show positive reinforcement to the dog when the button is pressed.
It’s important to get the timing right when puppy clicker training. If you don’t press the clicker at the exact moment the dog gets rewarded, the dog won’t understand that the sound is meant to reward it for performing the desired action.
How does clicker training work?
Clicker training works because the button on the device emits an artificial sound that dogs don’t typically hear. This captures their attention during puppy clicker training, which can be hard for young dogs. The more the puppy is trained, the more it associates the sound with positivity.
You won’t always have to give dogs treats when clicker training dogs.
However, it is recommended, as it speeds up the training process. You can slowly wean them off the treats; eventually, they will consider the “click” a reward.
How to train with a clicker
When you get a clicker, the first thing you should do is introduce your dog to it. Because the clicker makes such an artificial noise, some dogs initially fear it.
To avoid this, do a few test clicks in the same vicinity as the dog. For example, click the clicker when you and the dog are in the living room. Avoid getting in the dog’s face and pressing the button, which will scare them even more.
Once the dog is used to the clicker’s sound, it’s time to break out the treats. You can use whatever your dog responds to, but it’s recommended to use small pieces of chicken or cheese.
The puppy is probably already used to your kibble, but cheese or chicken is a genuine reward. You want your puppy to associate that reward with the click.
To start with, press the button and give the dog a treat. Don’t ask for any action from the dog; press the clicker and reward them with a treat.
This teaches the dog that the sound of a click equals food. It’s the equivalent of saying, “Good boy!” and giving the dog a treat.
In fact, many dogs who have already been trained to sit (typically the first trick taught) with a treat will start sitting automatically when they hear the clicking noise.
They know they get a treat, and they get a treat when they sit, thus the sitting.
Teaching a dog tricks with the clicker
Clicker training dogs is one of the easiest methods of teaching tricks. As mentioned previously, timing is the most important thing.
If you ask your dog to sit, and he does, you want to press the clicker button as soon as his butt touches the floor.
If you ask your dog to look at you, you press the clicker as soon as the dog makes eye contact. You want the dog to pick up on the fact that “click” means “good boy!” if they haven’t already.
Break the trick into simple steps for more complex tricks, such as play dead or roll over. Start by getting your pet to lie down, then click.
Next, use a treat to get the dog to look over his shoulder, then click again. Gradually increase this movement until he gets to where he actually rolls over, then press the clicker.
Continue to praise and “click” at your dog as long as he maintains the trick.
Make it simple
When teaching specific commands or tricks using a clicker, it’s important to remember a few tips:
Start with simple commands
Begin with basic commands like “sit” or “down” before moving on to more complex tricks. This will allow your pet to understand the concept of the clicker and how it signals correct behavior.
Break it down
Complex tricks can be broken down into smaller steps. For example, teaching a dog to roll over can be divided into “down,” “roll,” and “up” commands. Click and treat each small step to reinforce the behavior.
Be patient and consistent
Consistency is key when using a clicker. Click when your pet performs the desired behavior, and always follow up with a treat.
Patience is important, as some tricks may take time for your pet to master. Successful repetitions are vital.
End on a positive note
Always end training sessions on a positive note, even if progress is slow. This helps maintain your pet’s enthusiasm for future training sessions.
Have fun
Training should be an enjoyable experience for both you and your pet. Keep the atmosphere light-hearted and fun, and always reward your pet for a well-done job.
By following these tips, you can effectively teach specific commands or tricks using a clicker while strengthening the bond between you and your pet.
Do you need to use treats with clicker training?
Food treats aren’t as important as one might think when it comes to clicker training, but they are definitely helpful in getting the dog to do what you want.
Tasty treats are an excellent method to use at the beginning of training, but a well-timed click sound should serve just as well when done correctly. By combining the two, you’re communicating with your dog in a simple yet understanding way.
If you’re worried about overfeeding your dog, reward it with a favorite toy and a short play session.
Remember that successful dog training depends on many factors.
Training with a dog should be done regularly, and the session should finish positively for your dog.
How important is the clicker itself?
One of the most commonly asked questions about training with a clicker is whether it is necessary. Many dog owners wonder if they can make a noise and use another device to make a sound that the dog will respond to.
While using an actual clicker for best results is recommended, you can use other objects in a pinch. It’s advised to be as close to a “click” as possible, as this artificial sound captures even the youngest puppy’s attention.
A marker, pen, or even retractable dog leash all mimic the sound of a clicker. If you can’t mimic that click, go with another sound the dog won’t commonly hear, such as a whistle or a bell.
You can download several apps from Google Play or the Apple Store that act as clickers and provide step-by-step guides on how to teach your pet certain tricks.
Once your dog understands the concept, you can substitute a verbal command or marker word instead of using the dog-training clicker.
Final thoughts on clicker training
Cynthia L. Collins is a devoted dog lover, behaviorist, and dog mom to her two rescued Shih Tzus, Romeo and Elvis, and an Australian Shepherd, Bandit. She is the main editor of smartdoglife.com. She grew up on a farm in Arizona, surrounded by many four-legged companions. When she isn’t working, she volunteers at a local shelter and various animal welfare organizations.