top of page
Writer's pictureLeanne James

Clicker Training

Updated: Apr 25, 2023



*Disclosure: We only recommend products we have used ourselves and trust. This post may contain affiliate links and we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.


Clicker training is great for all dogs of all ages and all training levels. The idea is that we "click" at the VERY moment that they do a desired behavior, or that they make progress toward a specific bigger behavior goal or difficult skill.


Using a clicker is helpful if we have a hyper or wiggly pup, or a dog who is struggling with a skill- so we can communicate micro-moments of success to shape specific behaviors we want them to repeat and do so on our cue. Dogs can get frustrated or lose confidence and sort of give up if they don't get success after a few tries. This can help!


Timing of the click is VITAL so it's not best for all scenarios and it can take a bit of a learning curve. Plus, you'll have to make sure the clicker is in hand and easily accessible at all times when using it as part of a training plan, so get a spiral wrist bracelet to keep it accessible and our hands-free for treats and a leash.


You can use the clicker INSTEAD of a word when introducing new skills like a down. We can lure and click when they are doing the behavior or are almost there if they're struggling and need a confidence boost. Once they start offering the behavior voluntarily, we can click, say "down" then treat and repeat. Then eventually, we can ASK for the behavior we want, then click when they give it to us, then treat.


Step 1- load the clicker! Have high-value treats, use focus, and give a treat to get pup engaged. Then, repeat, and when she looks immediately click at that moment and treat, now click and treat every second for 10 treats without asking for any cues. Then, focus again and click/treat 10 more times. Repeat again. Then, put the clicker and treats away and be done. Do this twice a day for 2 days. The timing is crucial! The click needs to happen at the time of the desired behavior, not before or after. The click happens during, the treat comes right after the behavior/click.


Step 2- After the loading period, now we want to start having it attached to our treat bag so we always have it and start using it at the very same time as our desired behaviors, followed immediately by a treat. You can use the verbal cue at any time also, it won't hurt.


Step 3- For each training session or walk, do a mini clicker loading step just before. Focus, click/treat, and repeat 5 times.


You're ready to use it anytime anywhere!


Resources:


5 views0 comments

Kommentarer


bottom of page