- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Clicker training for dogs is an effective training method that relies on the principles of positive reinforcement. This technique employs a small hand-held device that makes a distinct “click” sound to mark desired behaviors. Clicker training took off in the mid-90s when it was popularized by animal trainers Karen Pryor and Gary Wilkes. Since then, it has become widely accepted as an efficient way to train dogs and shape their behavior.
“I love clicker training!” says Jennifer Abrams, an Associate Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (ACAAB). “The clicker allows for precise timing for us humans and clear communication for our dogs.” She adds that using a clicker encourages pet parents to watch and listen to their dogs more and to talk less.
In this guide, we turn to several canine behavior experts to learn which dogs can benefit from clicker training (hint: pretty much any dog) and why this approach is so effective. We’ll also cover what you need to get started and the steps you’ll take to implement this technique.
Why Is Clicker Training So Successful?
Clicker training is a form of operant conditioning—a type of learning whereby an animal links their behavior with positive consequences. You can use a clicker to teach specific behaviors, like “leave it” or coming when called.
“It works by creating an association between the sound of a ‘click’ with a reward, typically a treat,” explains Susan Nilson, accredited cat and dog training and behavior expert and founder of The Cat and Dog House. Research suggests that an action is more likely to be repeated if followed by a positive outcome, which is why this type of training is so successful.
Using a clicker trumps other training methods on a few fronts. Because a clicker is neutral, consistent, and immediate, it makes learning more accessible for dogs. Unlike a voice command, the clicker is not imbued with tone or emotion. It always sounds the same, and it’s only used for training. Nilson says this allows you to communicate more effectively with your dog so they can learn and progress faster.
With a clicker, it’s also easier to get the timing right. “This is because you click at the precise moment the dog does the desired behavior rather than delay those few seconds while you take a breath to voice your praise,” Nilson explains.
The same is true for treats: using training treats alone without a clicker results in a delay between the desired action and the reward. Essentially, the clicker provides clarity and prevents confusion.
Which Dogs Benefit From Clicker Training?
The good news is that clicker training can benefit dogs of all types and ages. That goes for pups with superior intellect and those who need a bit more patience and instruction.
“I don’t know any breeds that don’t do well with clicker training,” says behaviorist Jennifer Abrams. She adds that age-wise, pet parents will want to make sure the task they’re asking for is appropriate and manageable.
That said, keep in mind that because clicker training is reward-based, it might be less effective if your dog has a low food drive or isn’t motivated by rewards or treats.
What Tools Do You Need for Clicker Training?
Fortunately, you don’t need many tools to get started with clicker training. Here are some basics you’ll want on hand, which can be easily found at local pet stores, online retailers, or even some vet clinics.
- Clickers. A training clicker is a small hand-held device with a metal strip inside that makes a distinct “click” sound. According to Dr. Kathryn Dench, a veterinarian at Gentle Dog Trainers, clickers are key to the training process as they provide immediate, positive feedback. Clickers with a wristband are especially convenient when you need your hand for something else.
- High-value treats. Treats serve as the dog’s reward to reinforce desired behaviors. “They should be small, tasty, and something your pet loves,” says Dr. Dench. Consider varying treats so your pup doesn’t get bored. In addition, bits of cooked chicken or dog-safe veggies are great motivators.
- Treat bags. These are all about quick and easy access. Dr. Dench says that instead of fumbling around for rewards when you need them, a treat pouch can be attached to your clothing or belt for smoother access.
- Target stick. A target stick is a wand with a rubber ball or target at the end. “This tool is used to guide your pet’s movements or to teach them to touch a specific spot,” Dench explains.
- Training mat or blanket. Dr. Dench says a training mat offers a designated spot for training. This creates a structured environment for learning and helps make it clear to your pet that it’s time to focus. You can use any mat or blanket lying around at home.
How Can You Get Started with Clicker Training?
Clicker training can be implemented at any age, whether you have an 8-week-old puppy or a senior dog. For most dogs, it’s a fairly fast process.
“Most of the time investment early on with clicker training is learning the timing and mechanics for using it yourself,” Abrams points out. Once you have the process down, dogs catch on pretty quickly. Even so, every dog is different, she reminds us, and everyone learns at their own pace.
To get started on the right foot, Dr. Dench offers some tips.
- Be consistent: Make sure all family members use the same cues and reward systems.
- Pre-define your goals: Have a clear idea of the behavior you’d like to teach. This minimizes confusion and helps you stay on track.
- Be patient: Give your pet time to learn, as rushing the process can lead to confusion.
How Can You Get Used To Clicker Training?
For newbies, the thought of starting clicker training can be overwhelming. It’s difficult to imagine using a clicker in addition to all the other stuff you have to worry about when training your dog.
The clicker is simple to use and integrate into your training, but practice will help. Begin by holding the clicker in one hand and pressing the button with a finger from that same hand. Once you’ve got a feel for that, it’s time to practice the most crucial part of clicker training—timing.
If you’re watching a TV show or movie, try clicking every time a particular actor appears on screen, every time a specific word is said, or in sync with some other detail that occurs randomly but regularly. Once you’ve got this down, move on to your dog. Begin by clicking every time your dog looks at you. Follow your click with a food reward. The sequence should go like this:
- Dog looks at you (either on his own or because you’ve gotten his attention)
- Click the moment he looks
- Immediately follow the click with a treat
Repeat this several times until you’ve gotten the hang of delivering the reward. This exercise does double duty by teaching your dog that the click is meaningful and awesome.
How To Clicker Train Your Dog: A Step-By-Step Guide
To illustrate the process of clicker training, we consulted Lynda Taylor, MSc, a canine behaviorist and professional trainer with Depend on Dogs. She breaks down the method into six steps.
1. Establish the meaning of the clicker by linking the reward to the click
This is called “loading the clicker” or “charging” the clicker. Taylor explains that this first step helps your dog understand that when they hear the sound of the click, something good is heading their way.
To load the clicker:
- Find a quiet, distraction-free place.
- Press the clicker and immediately give your dog a treat.
- Continue to click and treat in quick succession, ideally 10-20 times per session.
2. Press the clicker when your dog performs the desired behavior
This step is known as “marking the behavior.” Once your clicker is loaded, you can use it at the precise moment your dog performs the desired behavior to tell them that was right. “The timing of the click is crucial; it should be done at the exact moment your dog displays the behavior you’re trying to reinforce,” says Taylor.
There are a few ways to elicit a desired behavior:
- Capturing: This technique involves watching your dog and rewarding them when they naturally perform a specific action. “Capturing behaviors requires patience and a keen eye for recognizing the right moments to mark and reward,” Taylor explains. You can capture behaviors like sitting, lying down, or offering a paw.
- Lure-and-reward training: With this method, handlers use a reward, usually a treat or toy, to coax or guide dogs to perform a desired behavior, like sitting or staying. Eventually, your dog will be able to perform the behavior without needing a lure.
- Shaping behaviors: This approach breaks down a desired behavior into incremental baby steps, rewarding each small movement in the right direction. “It’s a valuable training method for teaching complex or unique behaviors, as it allows the dog to play an active role in their learning and problem-solving,” Taylor points out.
3. Reward your dog with a treat
Immediately after marking the behavior with the clicker, reward your dog with a high-value treat. “The treat reinforces the connection between the behavior and the reward, letting your dog know they did something right,” Taylor explains.
4. Repeat the process until the behavior is learned
Taylor recommends practicing and rewarding correct behavior until it sticks. “Consistency is essential,” she says. “Your dog will start to associate the click with the reward and the specific behavior, making them more likely to repeat it in the future.”
5. Add verbal cues
When your dog consistently performs the target behavior, Taylor says a verbal cue can be given before using the clicker. Eventually, your dog will associate this verbal cue with the desired action.
6. Fade out the clicker
Once your dog has learned a behavior (congrats!) and reliably responds to your verbal cues, you can start to phase out the clicker.
However, there are benefits to continuing with short clicker training sessions throughout your dog’s life, Nilson says. For one thing, it prevents your pup’s skills from getting rusty.
Clicker training also creates a positive learning environment because there are no wrong answers—at worst, your dog doesn’t get a click. “This encourages [them] to try harder, empowers [them] to make [their] own choices, and helps build [their] confidence,” Nilson explains.
What If Your Dog Doesn’t Take to Clicker Training?
If your dog is having trouble with a particular behavior, they may not understand what you want them to do. “If you increase criteria too quickly or add too many distractions at once, you may be moving the skill along too fast for your dog to really learn each piece,” Abrams points out.
In these cases, it’s helpful to break down a behavior into more manageable chunks so that they’re more clearly defined. If, for example, your dog doesn’t understand that lowering your hand to the ground is a request to lay down, it may become clearer by dropping the criteria and working your way up to the larger goal.
- Goal 1: Click and reward your dog for following your hand enough to bend toward the ground.
- Goal 2: Click and reward your dog for both bending toward the ground and stretching out one paw.
- Goal 3: Click and reward your dog for completing a full down.
Tips for Successful Clicker Training
Abrams recommends keeping training sessions short and sweet for the best chance of success. Here are a few more tips to keep things rolling:
- Don’t use the clicker like a remote control: The clicker does not cue your dog to do something. Remember that the clicker marks the moment your dog has done something worth rewarding. Not the other way around.
- Only click once: It’s easy to get carried away when your dog performs well, but increasing the number of clicks only creates confusion.
- Keep treats small: Dogs can eat smaller treats more quickly, so they stay focused on the task at hand. Small treats also prevent weight gain.
- Practice timing with a friend: Accuracy is key, and clicking too late can halt progress. Get a friend to observe your clicker timing if you’re struggling.
Does Clicker Training Actually Work?
Yes! Studies have shown that clicker training is an effective way to reinforce behaviors. When used correctly, a clicker can help with obedience training and teaching new skills. While the evidence that a click is superior to other markers is largely anecdotal, many experts swear by clicker training. This is thanks in large part to the precision it allows. Plus, for many handlers, clickers make training fun—which creates a positive setting and helps keep everyone focused.
Click or Ick? The Pros and Cons of Clicker Training
While plenty of dogs will find success with clicker training, it’s not for every pup. It’s helpful to weigh the benefits and drawbacks to work out if this technique makes sense for you and your dog.
Clicker Training Pros | Clicker Training Cons |
Clicker training can make training fun by focusing on positive behaviors. | There’s no evidence it’s better than other forms of positive reinforcement. |
Eliminates confusion associated with inconsistent voice commands. | It requires carrying an additional piece of equipment & means one more thing to remember. |
Provides immediate positive feedback, clearly defining the desired behavior for dogs. | It takes practice to use it smoothly. |
Feedback can be given at a distance if your dog isn’t right beside you. | Dogs may become overly excited in response to high-value treats. |
It’s a relatively quick process for most dogs. | Timid dogs may find the noise frightening. |
Takeaway
Ultimately, clicker training is a useful tool for a wide range of dogs. But if you’re struggling with the time and consistent effort it requires, working with a professional dog trainer may be worth considering.