Clicker Training 101

If you want to give clicker training a go, here's the deal: Timing is everything. You must capture the exact moment your dog is doing something right. The second secret of clicker training: Don't attach a spoken command to behavior until your dog has figured out what is making the clicker work.

Rule of paw! No clicks go unrewarded. If you click, you must reward. One click, one reward. Treats should be small and easy to swallow so that your dog can wolf them down and not fill up. Don't treat your dog when he's not having lessons or getting a reward won't seem as exciting. 

Here are a few simple ways to apply the clicker to common commands:

Sit: Click, reward, and praise the moment your dog plants his tush on the ground. Command :Sit" once the sequence is understood.

Down:  Lure your dog into position with a toy or treat. Click, reward, and praise. Command "Down" once the sequence is understood. Good dog!

Come: Throughout the day, click and reward anytime your dog stands near you. Next, encourage your dog to look up by sweeping your hands to your eyes. Click and reward. Now command "Come," after the behavior is understood.

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