Dog Clicker Training
Dog clicker training is a very effective and gentle way to teach dogs the basics; sit, stay, leave it, down, and heel, just to name a few.
This method is the type that is used at Sea World to train the orcas, dolphins, and whales to do all the wonderful tricks they perform for shows. Using a clicker to train dogs doesn’t involve using anything that will harm the dog at all. In fact, the dog isn’t even touched during training, unless you are petting him as a form of praise.
The first step in this type of training is to get the dog used to the clicker and to associate it with a treat of some sort. It’s easiest if you have a huge bowl of something your dog really enjoys; cut up chicken chunks, hot dogs, or soft dog food.
Whatever you are using for treats needs to be in very small pieces and soft. Your dog shouldn’t have to chew these tiny pieces if he doesn’t want to. You will begin with your clicker in one hand and the bowl of treats nearby.
This beginning part is best done in a room where it is just the two of you working together. Start off by pressing the clicker and then giving a treat. Do this click and treat routine until your dog begins to look up when you click, expecting his treat.
To teach your dog to look at you when you say his name, this same click and treat method is followed. Say your dog’s name, wait until he looks at you, then click and give a treat. Wait until he becomes a little distracted and do this again. Be sure to say his name only once.
Other verbal commands are taught in the same way as mentioned above during dog clicker training. Say the command desired, place the dog in that position, then click and give a treat. After a while, when you say the command your dog should perform what is asked of him. As soon as he does this, click and give a treat. This works great for sit, down, and stand.
Teaching your dog to stay may take a bit longer, but it is still the same method. Place him where you want him, tell him to stay, and take a couple of steps back.
If he stays where he is, quickly click and give a treat. If he moves, place him back where you want him and try again. Gradually move further and further back. With dog clicker training, the possibilities are endless. You and your dog do go through quite a lot of treats, but this type of dog clicker training will also enable you to learn how to work well together.
