Training your dog is one of the most important things you can do as a dog owner. A well-trained dog can have more freedom to enjoy life, making your life much easier. Dog training can be a really enjoyable and engaging experience for you and your dog. There are many different tools and techniques you can use; in this article, we take a look at some clicker training techniques and tips.

What is a dog clicker?

A dog clicker is a small device that makes a clicking sound when you press down on the button or lever. This click is consistent and a sound you’ll use to get your dog to listen and respond to your commands. Clickers come in a variety of shapes and colours; you can buy some that have a keyring attachment or clickers you can hang around your neck for easy access during dog training. Whatever clicker you choose, make sure it’s easy to use, and the sound is distinct. You’ll be pressing that button a lot if you want clicker training to work, so it should be easy to use.

How does clicker training work?

Clicker training works on the principle that your dog associates the clicker with a positive reward. Your dog learns that when they hear the clicker, they’ve done the right thing, and as a result, they will get a reward. Over time you can remove the treat, and the clicker in itself will be the reward. This is a good way to communicate calmly with your dog to let them know that they’re doing what you want them to do during a training session.

Familiarising your dog with the clicker

If your dog hasn’t seen or heard a clicker before, they won’t understand what it is or what the click noise means. An easy way to get your dog used to the clicker and to begin to understand it is by getting them to do a simple command they’re already familiar with, such as sit. Start by asking them to sit; as soon as they’re sat, press your clicker and reward them with a treat. You’ll need to keep practising this regularly over short sessions until your dog gets used to the clicker sound and starts associating it with a treat and doing the right thing. Dogs vary in their intelligence levels and ability to concentrate, so we suggest you stick to short sessions to keep them interested. Some dogs might be happy with longer sessions, and others might quickly pick up the training. However, it's still important to keep practising and repeating the exercise, so it sticks with your dog.

Learning new commands

Now your dog is used to your ACME clicker or any clicker and understands that it's a reward you can use to teach them new commands. When teaching your dog a new command, such as going to bed, you should split it into several steps. You want to click when your dog is interested in their bed, then click when they put a foot in the bed, then click and reward when they’re in their bed. The clicker is a way to reinforce your dog positively, so you can let them know they’re doing the right thing.

Accurate timing

For clicker training to work, you need to be good with timings; clicking a moment too late could confuse your dog, and the training won’t be as effective. It's a good idea to keep a clicker on hand on a walk or when you’re interacting with your dog. This will allow you to click when your dog unexpectedly does the desired behaviour without being told. If clicker training isn’t working for you and your dog, think about your timings and if you’ve been on point using the clicker.

Consistency

For clicker training to be effective, it needs to be used consistently on a daily basis. Your dog will forget, and you’ll need to start again if you sometimes use the clicker and other times just reward them directly. Keep practising and keep a clicker on you at all times; this will make it easier to remember to be consistent with your training.

Resources:

Clicker Dog Training Tips for Beginners