Clicker Training

What is clicker training?

Some say that Clicker training is one of the most significant advances in dog training in recent history.


Derived from dolphin training, the idea behind this technique is that dogs are better able to understand exactly what we are asking of them – if we are able to precisely tell them the exact moment they are doing it.

Clicker training is a new, science-based way to communicate with your pet. It’s easier to learn than standard command-based training. You can clicker train any kind of animal, of any age. Puppies love it. Old dogs learn new tricks. You can clicker-train cats, birds, and other pets as well.

What is a clicker?


Do not be disheartened when you pick up a clicker, this small piece of plastic can help you do amazing things. They are small, usually plastic, devices with a metal strip that, when pressed and released, makes a loud ‘click’ sound
What are the benefits? The clicker is a much faster and simpler means of communicating correct behaviour over the spoken word.

Dogs love this form of training as it is completely positive and reward based.
Over time, you will actually see them experimenting, and then listening for the click, experimenting again until they hear it.

Dogs enjoy this training technique as it is very stimulating for them and, because this method encourages co-operation without stress, it is often a chosen technique for training rescue dogs.

How to get started with clicker training.

It all sounds so simple doesn’t it? Well, it takes a little practice, so here are a few tips:

• Press the clicker at the exact moment the correct behaviour is displayed (not 2-3 seconds later)

• Reinforce the click with good things, namely a treat (preferably a soft one that is easily consumed without distraction).
Vary the length of time between the click and the treat.

• Start new exercises in small steps, clicking and rewarding each step until they can perform the whole exercise in one step.

• Don’t discipline your dog when they get it wrong. Give them time to experiment and figure it out for themselves.

• It sounds odd, but don’t pet/stroke your dog during the exercise. Your touch will distract them from the exercise.

• Try not to let your dog see the clicker. It is the sound you want them to be interested in, not the clicker itself.

• Be patient, this will take a number of sessions. Stop clicker training sessions while your dog is still interested.