Clicker training is a method of dog training that is based on behavioral psychology. Using the clicker to shape dog behavior is an extension of the reward based training method known as positive reinforcement training. In positive reinforcement training a dog is given a treat or a reward when he completes a desired command. In clicker training a desirable behavior is marked by using a clicker which is a mechanical device that makes a short, distinct "click" sound. This tells your dog exactly when they're doing the right thing. This clear form of communication, combined with positive reinforcement, is an effective, safe, and humane way to train your dog to complete desired behaviors from basic obedience to service work and advanced tricks. Clicker training is also inexpensive. In fact, all you need to get started is a clicker, available between $1 and $8 per clicker at any number of pet stores and web sites, and a bag of yummy treats.
1. Clicker training involves the process of associating a neutral stimulus with an involuntary response until the introduced stimulus elicits the response. Given that information you will need to associate treats with a reward for performing a desired behavior and then gradually introduce the clicker as a treat or reward until your dog responds solely to the clicker. Try starting with something simple your dog will likely do on his own like come towards you or sit. As soon as the command is completed press on the clicker and release one time and administer a treat. Repeat this several times until your dog gets the hang of it before moving on to more difficult tricks.
2. Use the clicker to shape behavior. This simply means that you can click and treat behavior that closely resembles the desired end behavior. For example, if your dog lies on his side when you are trying to teach him to roll over; use the clicker and give him a treat. He is engaging in a behavior that is moving closer to the desired end behavior and clicks and treats will let him know that he is on the right track.
3. Timing is everything. If your dog sits and immediately begins to stand up before you have clicked then he will get the click as he stands up. This will make him think that he gets rewarded for standing up. As soon as your dog willingly does something that is or is moving towards what you want him to do, then click immediately in that exact moment. The timing of the treat given after the click is not as important, but it should be administered as closely as possible to the click in the beginning as your dog slowly gets used to the click as a reward.
4. Implement a reward schedule. After your dog has gotten the hand of the clicker and recognizes it as a reward you can begin to ease up on the treats given with it. You do not want to give up the treats immediately so try setting up a schedule. In the beginning try a treat with the click after every other command completed. If your dog seems fine with this try giving fewer treats at random, but always continue with the clicker. This is known as a reward schedule. Some reward schedules are intermittent while others are random and others still are on a fixed ration schedule. Either way you go the goal is to use the clicker as the only reward and wean your dog off treats. You can still treat your dog from time to time, but the clicker should eventually become a reward for your dog in itself.
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