Clicker Training
| Published: 25th September 2008 10:37 |
Treats
The training involves giving a click and a treat (usually food) whenever your dog does something that you want. Your dog will soon learn that the click means he has got it right and a reward is on its way. They will soon know what behaviour gets them a reward and will want to do more of the same.
The treat does not have to be food, it may be something that they enjoy such as a belly rub, or play with a favourite toy. If you do use food remember to take this into consideration when giving meals to avoid weight gain.
Clicks
The clicker, available from pet shops or online is useful to tell the dog at exactly what point they did the right thing. It is something consistent they they will understand very clickly. Praising verbally, although important will give inconsistent tones they may not understand so clearly.
To Get You Started
Choose somewhere quiet where there are no distractions for you or your dog. Use the clicker being careful not to have it too close to your dog's ear and give a treat straight away so they know the click means a treat. You don't need to talk as the clicker does the communicating.
Choose something simple to start your training with such as following a simple command - sit or lie down. Click as soon as they have done it and give the treat. Starting with simple things so that your dog can follow easily. Next you could get them to touch a target - a ball or your hand. Give them reward for going near the target to start with. When they eventually hit the target give extra treats to let them know you are extra pleased.
Moving on
Once they get the hang of touching a target you can give them verbal instructions such as 'touch' . You can then use different exercises such as a going round in a cirlce, sitting on a mat, or more adventerous things. Just make sure you use the click and treat everytime they do as you ask.
