Methods of Clicker Training

All dogs benefit from training, but certain training methods work better than others. The clicker training method works well for most dogs since it uses positive reinforcement to teach dogs to perform positive behaviors. The broad method of clicker training uses two sub-methods, shaping and luring, when getting dogs to first perform tricks.

  1. Positive Reinforcement

    • Clicker training makes use of basic operant conditioning principles. Operant conditioning relies on the subject's ability to learn from the consequences of its actions. Specifically, clicker training uses positive reinforcement, in which the subject receives a reward to increase the occurrence of a specific behavior. In clicker training, a dog receives a favorite treat or toy, accompanied by a clicking noise, whenever the dog performs a desired trick or behavior. As a result, the dog associates the behavior as good and the clicker noise as part of a positive reward.

    Shaping Technique

    • One of the two sub-methods of clicker training involves a concept known as "shaping." Shaping takes a basic behavior that your dog naturally performs and turns that behavior into a positive. For example, when teaching a dog to sit, the shaping method requires the trainer to wait until the dog sits down on his own. Once the dog naturally sits, the trainer clicks and treats him. From that moment on, every time the dog sits, he receives a click and a treat. This method requires time, patience and vigilance, but the method does eventually work for most dogs.

    Lure Technique

    • The second method within the broader practice of clicker training requires a concept known as "luring." Luring uses a treat to literally lure or move your dog into the desired position or behavior. For example, when teaching a dog to sit, the luring method requires the trainer to hold a treat over the dog's nose and gradually raise it up and back over the dog's head. The dog will watch the treat and, in time, his bottom will sit on the floor as he watches the treat move behind him. Once he sits, the dog receives the treat accompanied by a click.

    Cue Words

    • Use clickers in conjunction with cue words for best results. As you click and treat your dog when the dog performs a specific trick, give the dog a cue word, such as "Sit," "Down," "Stay" or "Paw." The clicker serves as a marker, marking the behavior as a positive one. As you teach your dog more tricks, hearing the familiar clicker will reinforce the behavior as a positive one, making the behavior easier to learn. Once the dog thoroughly learns the trick, the trainer needs only to use the cue word.