What Is Clicker Dog Training?
Clicker training is a scientifically proven way to train a dog. It allows the pet owner to clearly communicate what the dog is being rewarded for. Clicker training is a very humane way to train a dog. It does not rely on any violence or harsh methods of correction. It is also a fun way to spend time with a dog.
This method of dog training was originally used to train dolphins. Karen Pryor is responsible for applying the method to dogs.
What Is The Clicker?
The clicker is a device with a metal strip that makes a distinctive sound when it is pressed. It serves the purpose of accurately marking the behavior of a dog, providing them with precise feedback.
How Does It Work?
This method of training relies on the principles of operant conditioning and classical conditioning. The basic idea is that, when you reward a dog’s behavior, they are likely to continue it. When you don’t reward a behavior, it is less likely to be continued.
Operant Conditioning
Dogs will learn how to behave by the immediate results of their behavior. If an owner regulates these results, they will be able to control their dog’s behavior. The feedback that the owner gives to the dog can take the form of the following outcomes:
- Positive Reinforcement – The owner adds something to increase the occurrence of a behavior.
- Negative Reinforcement – The owner subtracts something to increase the occurrence of a behavior.
- Positive Punishment – The owner adds something to diminish the occurrence of a behavior.
- Negative Punishment – The owner subtracts something to diminish the occurrence of a behavior.
- Extinction – A behavior goes away because it is no longer reinforced.
Classical Conditioning
Clicker training is the result of combining operant conditioning with classical conditioning. In classical conditioning, two unrelated stimuli are paired together so that an association is formed between the two. In the clicker method, the sound of the clicker becomes connected with getting a reward. When the dog hears the clicker, they will know that they will be getting a treat.
The focus of this training is on marking and rewarding the desired behaviors of the dog. The training sessions are very positive. They are free from any harsh treatment of the dog.
The Method Step-by-Step
- Elicit the desired behavior. – Either let the desired behavior occur naturally or use a lure.
- Mark the behavior as soon as it happens. – Make a click.
- Reinforce the behavior. – Use a combination of treats and praise.
- Generalize the behavior. – Practice the behavior as much as possible. Add new challenges, such as increasing the time, distance, and distractions.
- Use a cue. – Give the dog a verbal or visual signal. Examples are “sit” or “stay.”
- Gradually taper off using the clicker and the treats.
The Advantages of The Method
- It builds a great bond between the owner and the dog.
- It’s a positive and gentle training method.
- It’s based upon proven science.
- It works even on younger puppies.
- It focuses on the positive as opposed to the negative. This can help develop a confident dog.
- It stimulates thinking and creativity in the dog.
- The dog will have a positive attitude towards the training and will remain stress free.
- The method works well for big dogs. Instead of manhandling the dog, the owner works in cooperation with the dog. Rhino trainers even use the method.
Pet Peeves offers training as well as consultation for clicker training and other behavioral topics for you and your dog. For information as well rates for training and consultation, click here. Make an appointment for training and/or a consultation by clicking here.
Pet Peeves understands how efficient and positive this method of training a dog can be. The staff exclusively uses this method in handling all of the dogs that spend any time at their facilities. Owners of dogs in Golden and Lakewood trust Pet Peeves to gently handle and develop their precious pets, whether it is for a stay in the kennel or in dog daycare.
In addition to using this efficient and positive method to train a dog, it is important for every owner to be aware of the physical sensitivities of their dog. This is particularly the case with respect to the cold winters in Golden and Lakewood.
The cold weather can put stress on a dog in various ways. Breathing may be difficult for them in the cold, just like it is for humans. Therefore, it is important to make sure that a dog is properly outfitted for the cold, and the amount of time spent in the cold is limited.
Pet Peeves is attuned to all of the sensitivities and needs of all the different kinds of dogs. When an owner brings their dog in to Pet Peeves for dog boarding in the kennel or for dog daycare, the staff is very mindful of the conditions outside. They make sure that the dogs that they care for are properly outfitted and stay out of doors for the proper amount of time.
Dog boarding and daycare at Pet Peeves is a superior way to care for a dog. The staff is knowledgeable in everything that pertains to the welfare of a dog. They use behavioral and nutritional science to ensure that people’s precious pets are cared for in the best possible way. Their clients are pleasantly surprised to find that their pets are returned to them in an even better condition than when they arrived for their visit.
