What is Clicker Training?

Clicker training is a wonderful tool to help communicate with your dog. In my group classes I highly recommend using a clicker. The PDF’s below will help you have a better understanding of this method of training prior to your first day of class.

Clicker Training is not always used with in home training, but knowledge of this training method is always encouraged.

It is important to understand that clicker training is not luring the dog with food to do whatever behavior you are training. Clicker training is a form of positive reinforcement, but that doesn’t mean we just throw food at the dog for nothing. It means that when the dog does the correct cue/behavior, the dog is reinforced. Think of the reinforcement as the dog is being paid for their “work” of the cue/behavior.

A colorful infographic titled 'What Is Clicker Training?' explaining clicker training for dogs, including sections on necessary items, setup instructions, step-by-step training process, and testing understanding, with illustrations of a dog, clicker, treats, and a person.

Infographic titled 'Getting Started with Clicker Training' showing steps for training a dog to perform tricks using a clicker and treats, including necessary items, setup, and practicing exercises.