Clicker Training For Your Dog

Dog Clicker Training Hints and Tips

Clicker dog training is a simplest, easiest and scientific method of training pets and has become popular in recent years. It is generally used for training dogs in police, army department and other dog patrol firms. This system allows owner/trainer to communicate with dog in simple instructions using clickers.

The clicker is a small plastic box; consist of a metal strip that makes a different clicking sound when pressed. During training, clicker sound is used as a marker when the dog is successful in completing the desired behavior or command. A treat is given as a reward after the click helps dogs to understand and follow the instructions. Once the dog learns the positive sound effects of the clicking, the clicker itself acts as a habituated informer. More over, clicker acts as reinforcement to verbal commands especially one word commands like “sit’ or “stay” in which dog responds quickly to the click sound. Also the clicker is much quicker as well as different than saying “good dog”.

To implement clipper training method, the trainer should follow certain steps. I have listed out some of the basic steps:

• Select one quiet area to begin the training,
• Prior to working with dog, trainer has to practice the timing of the clicks. It is very important to use the clicker on the right moment which helps dogs to understand the command better, delay in clicking sound will confuse your dog regarding the action to be done.
• Make sure that you have enough treats which your dog likes a lot. Preferably, this should be done when your dog is hungry.
• Give your dog the treat right immediately after the clicker. The same procedure to be repeated for 5-10 times.
• Not to over do the clicks and be consistent in number of clicks. It is as important as timing.
• The session is effective when it is short and to the point. Ideal duration of training session will be around five minutes.
• To find out whether you and your dog are ready to move on to the next stage you can simply press the clicker and observe him to see whether he comes over expecting a treat from you
• Each time when your dog follows instructions do not forget to appreciate him by giving a treat. This is most important aspect in training as this is what motivates them to obey instructions.
• Do not scold or yell when using the clicker. Dogs can sense the mood and use of clickers will confuse them.

As dogs are simple-hearted creatures who like to enjoy fun, it is better to involve all the members of the family, including children in training session. It helps to encourage your dog’s friendlier nature and love towards human being.

There are many misconceptions regarding clicker training to dogs.

Some of them are:

• Dogs may become fat as they get more treat,
• Dogs will not do anything without clicker sound,
• Clicker may not be successful in noisy area, etc.

However, clicker dog training is scientifically one of the best ways to train dogs. It helps the owner to understand behavioral problems such as dog biting or aggressiveness and also reduces the training time by 1/3.

Author: Ruchi Vasishta
Article Source: EzineArticles.com