Training Your Dog With A Clicker

By Roger Hammond

Each person feels that they have the easiest and most effective method on how to train a dog with a clicker. Almost every dog owner is anxious to share their advice and expertise, when they find out that you have a new puppy. Very similar to when your first child is born, all of your friends and family with children, claim to have an in depth understanding of your situation.

A training method used in the past, known as clicker training, is currently making a comeback, as a productive dog training technique. The clicker is a small box that elicits a distinct clicking sound when the user presses their thumb down on the device; the click is a signal to the dog that he is exhibiting noteworthy behavior and that you are pleased with him. Through this training method, you are teaching the dog to learn the meaning of the clicking noise.

Obviously, the first step is to buy a clicker. It might also be a good idea to get one of the many books out there about dog clicker training. Begin slowly by initiating the process with a simple command like "sit". Issue the command to "sit" and attempt to get your dog to sit on his hind legs. You should give your dog a little treat, and press the clicker box, as soon as he has followed the command. Giving your dog a treat for accomplishing a task, should always be accompanied by clicking box. You will be helping your dog to associate his appropriate behavior with the clicking noise.

These days, there are many Dogs that participate in competitions, that are clicker trained. The next time a competition is aired on television, watch as the dogs perform the various obstacles; if you look to the side, you will probably see their trainer with a clicker box in hand. As long as the method of "command, treat, click" is strictly followed, clicker training is one of the best ways to train your dog.

The use of a clicker to train your dog puts you front and center as the person distributing both rewards and discipline while also making the dog aware of how much you appreciate it when they demonstrate good behavior. This method helps you to develop a closer relationship between you and your dog.

Remember to keep in mind that dogs react better to positive reinforcement, rather than negative punishment; every time they are on their best behavior, be sure to reward them with a click to reinforce the preferred behavior. - 32401

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