Dog Clicker Training Reinforces Positive Behavior

By by Judy Stevens

Dog Clicker Training, or training a dog with the use of a small clicker, was originally created by a dolphin trainer so that the dolphin could hear the sound while under the water. Since then, many other animal trainers adopted this method and clicker training has been used to train dogs, puppies, fish, elephants and other animals. Dog clicker training is used to teach older dogs as well as young puppies.

A clicker is a simple metal gadget that creates a click sound that does not waver in volume or pitch. It is a quick single sound that animals are not afraid of and can respond to quickly. This type of training is one of the most humane ways to train a dog. It does not hurt the body of the dog or injure the dogs ears. Dog clicker training is used to associate the sound of the clicker with the desired behavior the trainer or owner seeks.

With the sound of the click the dog instantly knows what behavior was commendable and will associate the click with the good behavior. When a treat is given without the click a puppy or dog can get confused as the treat is given when the dog has already changed behaviors. If the click is given immediately and then a small treat, this will help the dog know immediately what exactly he was doing to deserve the click, and then the treat.

The owner, or trainer will want to start with allowing the dog to get used to hearing the click and immediately receiving a small treat. Soon, the owner will want to allow the dog to do a small task, one that the dog already is doing or has already learned. An example of this is if the dog is on a walk, and the dog urinates outside as opposed to inside. Immediately after the dog uses the outside for its waste, the clicker is used and the dog receives a treat. This reinforces this behavior in a positive way.

Also, this is good to modify the dogs behavior if the dog has an issue with barking at people when they come to visit . This behavior is unacceptable and will not be rewarded but once the dog stops this negative behavior it is rewarded with the sound of the click once again.

As time continues in training, body language and voice commands can be used along side of dogs in clicker training. Together, they bring a strong message to the dog. It will help teach the dog quicker than just simple voice commands or treat commands.

These methods of using dog clickers help teach the dog good behavior and to reject bad behavior. Chewing and barking are among the negative behavior clicker training can deter. Good habits and happy dogs are not just the responsibility of the dog, but the owner has a responsibility to teach their dog just as one would feel the responsibility to teach their children to be positive members of the community. The dog will grow up happier and healthier too. - 29895

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