Free Dog Clicker Training - Dog Training Information
Dog Clicker Training is a subset of positive reinforcement training. This method entails using some type of sound signal (a clicker box) in order to alert the dog to his good behavior. When the dog is performing the correct behavior you click, then reward him with a treat. If the dog is being bad, you simply do not make a click sound and you ignore him.
Is dog clicker training effective?
With patience and consistency regarding repetition, this method can be quite effective.
This type of “sound signal” training has been used for more than 50 years on various mammals. Some of the more notable mammals are sea mammals. Trainers at facilities such as Sea World have used this same concept of obedience (only with a whistle) when training whales.
Can you clicker train your dog without using food?
In the early stages of clicker training, it is recommended that you use food in order to reinforce your dog’s good behavior. This tends to be a simple concept for the dog to understand. If he is good he will here a “click” and receive a treat. However, it is good practice to instill other reinforcement methods such as petting or play in addition to providing your dog with a treat. Keep in mind however, using reinforcement methods such as petting requires more strategy and planning.
Do you use word commands while training with a clicker?
In order to eliminate the clicker from your dog’s training practices, it is recommended to use word commands such as “correct” as secondary reinforcers. Remember that the concept of this training method is based on sound. When the dog here’s the “click” you follow with a word command such as “yes” or “good dog”. The idea is to associate these words with the sound of the click in order to alert the dog to his good behavior. These words should not be used as approval, but as the sound signal replacing the sound of the “click”. Once the dog is thoroughly trained, these commands should replace the clicker box.
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