So whatโs the point of clicker training? Donโt you get dependent on a device to get your pet to do anything?Great questions!
Here is how to clicker train your dog.
The point of clicker training is to get your dogโs attention in a consistent fashion, which can make training go faster. You donโt become dependent on the device, because over time, your dog will recognize your commands, regardless of whether youโre using the clicker or not. Eventually, you can stop using the clicker altogether.
1. Choose your signal.
The first step is to choose the signal you will use to inform your pet that a command has been given and thereโs a potential for treats to be earned.You can buy an
inexpensive clicker, or you can simply choose a different sound, like snapping your fingers, tapping your foot, or clicking your tongue.See what works best at getting your dogโs attention.The most important part of any training method is that youโre consistent, so see what works and stick to it in order to clicker train your dog successfully.
2. Choose a reward.
To start, it helps immensely to hold your dogโs attention if you use a mixture of treats and praise. Choose the most delicious treat in the world to your dog.Then over time, as your dog begins to respond reliably to commands, you can phase out the treats and rely on praise alone.
3. Choose consistent commands.
Thereโs the word โconsistentโ again. To get any training to stick, you need to be steadfast in your methods. When it comes to commands, keep them to one or two words, such asย โ
Sit,โ โ
Stay,โ โ
Heel,โ and โ
Come.โMake a list of commands to practice with your dog so you remember which commands you chose. Donโt make your dog think too hard about what youโre saying; itโs enough to learn how to obey!
4. Watch your dogโs attention level.
Stick to regular meal times. You want to keep make sure your dog isnโt starving when itโs time to train, or their energy will be drained and they wonโt be able to focus as well.As training progresses and your dog earns treats, they will feel fuller and they wonโt be as motivated to work for your rewards.When going about clicker train your dog keep sessions focused and short so your dog doesnโt get stuffed, bored, and burned out on training.
Do you have any stories or tips to share about training your dog? Let us know in the comments, and considerย signing up forย PetPlus,a benefit program for pet owners that provides member-only access to medicationsย at wholesale prices, plus discounts on food, supplies, vet visits, boarding, and more.