Clicker training is a reinforcement based training method to help dog owners reward desired behaviors. If you're looking for a new training method, try out clicker training. In this blog post, our trainers will highlight clicker training's benefits and guide you on using this popular method.
What are the Benefits of Clicker Training?
Clicker training is a form of positive reinforcement training that uses a handheld device called a clicker to mark desirable behavior in dogs. There are a ton of benefits when we think about using a clicker when training our dog.
Here are some of the benefits of clicker training:
Builds a Stronger Bond Between You and Your Dog: Clicker training is a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Not only is it fun, but it also encourages positive communication between you and your pup.
Increases Dogs' Confidence: Dogs thrive on positive reinforcement, and clicker training is a highly rewarding experience for them, leading to higher confidence levels.
Encourages Good Behavior: Clicker training is an excellent way of encouraging good behavior. If you are consistent with clicker training and reward your dog properly, overtime, they will learn these desired behaviors.
Teaches Basic Commands: Clicker training is a perfect way to teach your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and others.
How to Clicker Train Your Dog
Now that you know some of the benefits of clicker training let's dive into the steps to teach your dog using this technique.
Step 1: Introduce the Clicker
Introducing the clicker to your dog can be really easy, or really difficult. Some dogs get it right away, while others take a little more time to actually understand how us humans are trying to communicate. Be patient with your dog. To start, click the clicker a few times near your dog and immediately give your dog a treat. Continue this process so that your dog makes a connection between the clicker and the reward.
Step 2: Choose a Basic Command
Once you have become more confident in using the clicker, and your dog has become familiar, it's time to start training. It's best to start with a basic command, like sit, to begin the clicker training process. For example, if you want to teach your dog to sit, move them into the desired position.As soon as your dog sits, click that clicker! Remember to follow it up with a treat immediately.
Step 3: Repeat the Process
Continue to repeat the training process until your dog accurately responds to the command. It's really important for you, and your dog, to take breaks when training. Just like humans, dogs can get frustrated too! Taking breaks not only lets you relax, but also allows your dog to really absorb what they have learned.
Step 4: Gradually Add Challenges
Once your dog masters the basic command, add challenges such as distance and distractions to the training. For example, once you've taught your dog to sit at home, take them outside where there are distractions. Continuously click and reward your dog each time they follow your lead.
So, is Clicker Training Worth It?
The short answer is YES! Clicker training is an effective strategy when used properly. Using a clicker, alongside other training methods, can lead to a well-behaved and happy dog. What's better than that?
At Sit's Getting Real Dog Training, we promote and specialize in positive training methods. If you're ever looking for a reliable dog trainer near you, feel free to visit us. Our trainers Amanda and Tomas love helping animals, and owners, create long-lasting relationships.
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