CLICKER TRAINING DOGS

Clicker training dogs has become one of the most popular forms of dog training around the world. As a result, more and more dog trainers are using this type of dog training. In addition, this way of training a dog  is becoming popular with dog owners around the world. However, what exactly is this type of training for dogs.  

QUESTION: WHAT IS CLICKER TRAINING?

ANSWER: Clicker training is marker training that marks a behavior and  signals the dog that behavior earns a reward. This type of training for dogs uses a small hand held devise that makes the sound of a “click” when it is pressed down. Dog trainers who use a marker training system uses primarily positive reinforcement dog training The sound of the click is first paired with a reward that dogs like. First, the dog needs to be trained to understand that the sound of the clicker means that something pleasant is coming. Next, the person that is training the dog or the puppy conditions the sound of the “click” with a primary reinforcer such as food. The conditioning process uses classical conditioning through a series of repetitions where the reward is associated with the sound of the clicker.   

HOW DOES IT WORK

The sound of the clicker marks a behavior like when a dog command for “sit” is given. Dog trainers use both classical conditioning and operant condition with a marker training system. There are many advantages to clicker training. One advantage is that it allows you to have better timing. As a result, learning happens quicker. In addition, communication between the trainer and the animal being trained, is very clear. Consequently, this type of training for dogs is faster. In addition, this type of dog training method is less stressful.

Karen Pryor, the author of Clicker Training for Dogs,  was one of the early pioneers of this training method.  Consequently, Prior lectured and taught dog trainers and other animal trainers through her books and seminars. Soon after, Karen Pryor started putting on an annual dog training conference called Click Expo. Trainers from all over the world came to learn from Pryor. In addition, she eventually started the Karen Pryor Dog Training Academy for professional dog trainers.

IS THERE A DOG TRAINER NEAR ME THAT OFFERS THIS TYPE OF DOG TRAINING?

You can find a directory of dog trainers that are certified in the clicker training method on the  Karen Pryor Academy website. Also, if you live in the Phoenix Arizona metro area, our dog training company offers clicker dog training in Scottsdale, North Scottsdale and throughout all of Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe and more cities for our East Valley dog training.  We also offer dog training in the West Valley cities of Peoria Arizona, Glendale, Surprise, Good Year, Buckeye, Sun City and more.  Click and reward training is fun for dogs and owners. Contact Phoenix Dog Training today to being training for your dog.

By Will Bangura, Dog Trainer and Animal Behaviorist.