Clicker training is a positive reinforcement method in which we use a small device that makes a clicking sound – the clicker – to mark the moment in which our dog displays a desired behavior. The clicking sound is then followed by a treat.
Why Use a Clicker?
The timing of praise and reward is important when we teach a new behavior. We only have a couple of seconds in which our dog will associate his behavior with the reward. For example, if you are fumbling in your pocket to find a treat to reward your dog for sitting, he may already be standing by the time you get the treat out. You are now rewarding him for standing, not for sitting.
The clicker serves as a bridge between marking your dog’s behavior (sitting) and delivering the treat. You still need to be quick, but the clicker gives you a little extra time, signaling to your dog that he just performed the correct behavior and announcing that a treat will be delivered. The consistency of the clicking sound and the fact that the sound can be produced instantly can make the clicker an effective training tool.
Tip: If you have a sound sensitive dog, choose a quieter clicker or muffle the sound with a cloth wrapped around.
How Does Your Dog Know what the Clicking Sound Means?
You first have to “load” the clicker for it to become meaningful to your dog. This is how you do it: Click and immediately give your dog a treat. Repeat this several times until your dog anticipates a treat every time he hears the clicking sound. You’re now ready to use the clicker to train a behavior.
Tip: Do not use the clicker to get your dog’s attention or to call him unless this is what you want to use the clicker for, of course. The clicker is intended to bridge the time between the displayed behavior and the reward.
Do You Have to Use a Clicker in Positive Reinforcement Training?
No, you don’t. In essence, the clicking sound equals verbal praise, signaling to the dog that the reward is coming. Many trainers like using a clicker for the reasons listed above. But for some people, this technique is a bit too mechanical. I have always used praise and reward for my own dog because I enjoy the natural, joyful interaction we have. It does help, however, using the same marker word for the behavior, i. e. “good” or “yes,” in the same tone, at least when teaching a new behavior.
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