Clicker Training

What is Clicker Training?

Clicker training is not that new. The principles responsible for the development of what is known today as clicker training began many years ago with marine biologists. The marine biologists wanted a way to communicate and teach dolphins to perform tasks. The biologists used a sound horn to communicate with the dolphins. A clicker that is commonly used today in training animals would not have been effective with the dolphins. A clicker is not loud enough for the dolphins to hear while under water. Hence, the marine biologists used a horn to train the dolphins.

Clicker training differs from traditional animal training. Clicker training negates the need for punishment or deprivation of any type. The animal is rewarded every time a positive action occurs. Negative actions are simply ignored. The common motivation with most animals such as dogs is food or dog treats. The animal quickly learns that certain actions produce a treat reward and other actions do not. Clicker training is being used to train dogs, cats, birds, horses etc.

What is a Clicker?

A clicker is a small mechanical device that makes a clicking sound when pressed. A clicker cost less than a couple of dollars or so. It’s nothing expensive but used properly it has great motivational factors with animals. The clicking sound indicates that an action has occurred which will be rewarded. The clicker is a signal to your dog telling him "Job well done, collect your treat". Through conditioned reinforcement your dog learns that positive actions cause the clicker to click followed by a reward or treat. As soon as your dog grasps the concept that they can control the clicker, by their actions, training accelerates. Training is simply showing the dog what action is requested.

Clicker Training - Short Intensified Periods

The clicker training sessions are held to periods of 15 minutes or less. These training periods become a fun and exciting time for your dog. Training periods should occur several time throughout the day. Training to achieve an accomplished task accelerates because your dog is motivated to receive its reward. Your dog is willing to try things knowing there is no negative reprimand coming around the corner. Your dog learns faster when he realizes what is and what is not rewarded.

Clicker Training is Fun for Your Dog

Clicking exercises the mind of your dog. He becomes alert to the things you desires. The two of you become tightly entwined into each others responses and actions.

Why Do You Need A Clicker?

The clicker provides an immediate positive reinforcement. For the dog clicker training becomes the game itself. At some point your dog realizes it can actively control the clicker. A mechanical clicker is precise clear and consistent. The sound is always the same. There is never any confusion. The absence of a click sound tells the dog "Try Again". The click sound tells the dog "Job well done, reward coming". The clicker provides a faster immediate response. Voice commands are slower and don't occur immediately after execution of a desired action. The lag time of the voice command creates a point of hesitation or confusion for your dog.