Posts Tagged ‘clicker dog training’
How to train a dog using a clicker
There are many dog training methods available today. One very popular technique is the “clicker training” method.
This system uses a clicker, a small plastic box with a metal button which makes a clicking sound when pressed. This has become one of the chosen methods used by trainers because it parallels the Positive Dog Training method.
This technique reinforces natural occurring behaviors on dogs, such as sitting, standing, barking, etc. It is also used to teach new tricks to your dog, such as play dead, roll over, high five, etc.
The assumption behind this system is that the noise given off by the clicker means accurate. As soon as the dog performs the command accurately, you use the clicker followed by positive reinforcement and lots of praise. This makes it clear to the dog that the behavior is correct.
Timing and consistency are two critical factors to make this technique work. Make sure the clicking signal is given as soon as the command is finished correctly. If this is performed at the same time every time, the dog will make the association between the command, and the fact that he did it correctly.
Once the dog starts making the connection between the clicker and the “right behavior” signal, it will learn new commands faster and easier.
Dogs are very smart, and they prefer training that reinforces the positive aspects instead of the negative. Old school used negative methods, such as hitting, yelling or spanking to correct bad behavior. Studies have shown that this type of negative training does not work, and can cause secondary unwanted behaviors.
As with any type of training, consistency and patience are essential. At first it will take longer to train the dog, but as time goes on the dog starts understanding the method and training will be easier and faster.
Clicker training is relatively easy, and can be a lot of fun for you and your dog. Get yourself a clicker and start experimenting. If you need more information on Clicker training or Positive Dog Training in Fort Lauderdale, check out our links.
Need Help Training An Aggressive Dog? Try Clicker Training
Have you ever asked yourself “Is my dog aggressive“? If you have then you probably have good reason to think your dog is aggressive. If you are noticing that you dog is aggressive you have a couple options that are available to you for handling it.
The first option presented to you would be to just say goodbye to your dog (not necessarily the best option). While this is not the option most people choose it is something some people do. If you do decide that you want to get rid of your dog then make sure you find him a safe home. Never just let a dog go especially if they are aggressive. It is true that dogs are from wild animals but we have pretty well breed that out of them so it would be very unsafe for a dog alone out in the wild.
The better option would be to either train your dog to not be aggressive or let someone else train him. There are many different classes you can take your dog to and most everywhere has dog trainers.
Clicker training is an excellent way to go about training aggressive dogs. When done properly, clicker training can help you see a major improvement in your dog’s behavior. What makes clicker training so wonderful is that after a bit you will be able to give your dog commands that he will follow without the use of the clicker or dog treats.
Timing is everything when using the clicker dog training method. If you mess this up it will be much harder to train your dog and will take much longer.
The second that your dog follows your command you need to click with the clicker and give them a treat. If you wait to long the dog will not understand what behavior got them the treat he will just know that he is very lucky because you are excited and feeding him yummy treats.
You also should keep the clicker tucked in your hand so your dog can not see it. Another thing you can do is click using your tongue when your dog has gotten accustomed to the sound of clicking.
No matter how you are going to train your dog make sure you are using positive training methods. Not only will negative methods hurt your dog but he is likely to become worse behaved over time.