Clicker Dog Training - Kind Dog Training

By Ossie Hickson

Clicker training is an established method of training amongst the more modern behavioural dog trainers, in fact in many forms it has been around for a long time amongst animal trainers. It is a common misconception that circus animals and zoo animals taught to put on a show were historically taught using cruel methods, but not so. So, back to the clicker.

A clicker is a small device held in the hand of the trainer or owner which, unsurprisingly, creates a "click" sound. The sound is made to tell the dog it has done something right. For example, you ask the dog to "sit" and he does so. Immediately his bottom touches the floor, the clicker is used to make the noise, denoting "good job". The instant and succinct sound pinpoints the exact moment when the dog has done what you want.

Example of Clicker Training:

As one example of how this method works on a step-by-step basis, here is a typical scenario:

Sit gesture is shown to the dog.The word "sit" is used in conjunction with the hand signal.

1. The dog sits. His bottom touches the floor.


2. The word "sit" is used in conjunction with the hand signal.


3. At the very second that 3. occurs, the clicker is activated.


4. The clicker noise is immediately followed by a treat and praise.

The Basic Principle

But what's in it for the dog? Ah, well, when you begin with clicker training you make a positive association in his mind with the clicker sound by following the click immediately with a food-based reward. This is an exercise in itself to establish great associations with the click sound. Eventually you can withdraw the use of the food treat, but the association is then established and the dog will behave purely for the reward of the click alone.

A slight issue with clicker training is that the trainer must be equipped at all times with the clicker (so it is wise to buy a few of these inexpensive items, to make sure you always have one to hand) and the food treats. It's not difficult to do, but timing is everything as the dog behaviour - click - reward routine must be instantaneous.

There's no reason to have an untrained, unruly dog who embarrasses you in public. Get the information you need on Dog Ticker Training, an easy, swift and effective way to train your dog. If you want to learn more about dog training using a clicker, visit petdoglogy.com and find out more about Pet Dog Training There's no reason to have an untrained, unruly dog who embarrasses you in public.