Dog Training

Most puppy training classes will cover important equipment that can aid with training your dog. Clickers are simple and effective tools which can really speed up the learning process. Some research indicates that training time can be reduced by a third with a clicker.

Clickers are small, handheld tools typically made of plastic. When pressed, they make click, thus the name. There are plenty of dog training specific clickers that are inexpensive and easy to find. You can also use items from around your house, like juice caps or retractable pens, which make consistent sounds when pressed.

The theory behind clicker training is to give accurate and timely positive feedback when your puppy does what you want him to. A clicker has the benefit of being fast, and therefore more likely to be associated with the behavior, as opposed to seconds later, when verbal approval might come. If the timing of the praise is not right after the event, the target behavior might not be learned as quickly.

Yet another issue associated with using verbal praise is that your tone can change every time, as can the actual words that you are using. Clickers, however, give a reliable and consistent signal that your dog will respond to quicker.

To begin with, you want to let your dog see that the clicker represents positive feedback. The way you do this is by associating it with what he already sees as positive, namely verbal praise, petting, and treats. Provide some attention and a treat to your dog and make a click. Wait a few moments, then repeat. Pretty soon he will associate the clicker with your approval.

Now you’re ready to make the clicker a part of your training. After giving your dog a command and watching him do the requested behavior, press your clicker immediately and follow it with praise or a treat.

Some people get concerned about giving their dog too many treats when using a clicker. It’s true that overeating can lead to obesity, and this is something you want to avoid. The best way to do this is to keep the treats the size of a small button.

You only have to use the clicker during the training process until your puppy has learned the behavior you are trying to teach. Once a particular command is mastered, using the clicker for it is not necessary.

When you use a dog clicker, especially during puppy training classes, you will see significant improvement in how quickly your dog learns, and you will soon be the envy of dog owners everywhere.

Find out more about the best puppy obedience training out there. Before you give up on having a well-trained and obedient dog, visit Michael’s blog for articles on crate training puppies and other helpful information.