I think I just zeroed in on why clicker training for dogs is so successful among the canine population. No offense, but I’ve come to the conclusion that dogs and humans have a lot in common. I’ve noticed that just like you, we canines respond very positively to food, praise, play, and all sorts of good things.

There’s a reason we’ve earned a reputation as man’s best friend. In fact, there is more than one reason: we are both very intelligent; we are masters at socializing; but beyond all that, we are positive thinkers.

Dog behavior to treats

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to associate your dog’s behavior with treats? Of course you have. But have you ever thought about trying treats for clicker training? Not? That is exactly the conclusion I came to last night while lying in bed.

You see, many dog ​​owners take the easy route and try to train their dogs by punishing them. In the long run, it just won’t work, because Rover just won’t understand why he’s being punished for something he did a minute or two ago (this is a point where you and I have nothing in common: our memory spans are somewhat as well as the short side).

But even if you’re lucky and catch him in the act and Rover understands he’s done something wrong, punishing him won’t accomplish anything in terms of showing him what was right. That’s where the clicker comes in.

What is clicker training for dogs?

Clicker training for dogs is basically a positive reinforcement method of training your dog. When Rover does something right, you give him a treat and praise him, and at the same time you click the clicker. He’s learning by association, so every time he hears your clicker, he knows he’s done something right. The next step is to remove the treats from the image, while keeping the compliments. A good diet of clicks and praise will ensure that Rover’s behavior continues to improve.

Maybe I should back up a bit here and explain what a clicker is. A clicker is a plastic box with a built-in clicking metal strip. It’s very easy to use, and once you understand the basics of dog clicker training, you’ll no doubt find all sorts of ways you can use your clicker.

A clicker is a great tool for obedience training. For example, you could use a clicker when playing with Rover: teach him to hit you back or drop the ball.

Positive Behavior Modification Training for the Shy Dog

You could use a clicker for positive behavior modification training to build a shy dog’s confidence, for example. But do you realize that a clicker could even save your dog’s life? Let’s say your dog likes to run outside every time he opens the door, you could use clicker training to teach him to stop at the door. Can you see why punishment might not work as well here?

Clicker training for dog training and puppy training too

As soon as your new pup is old enough to start training (around six to eight weeks old), use your clicker to start on a positive note. You’ll find that the two of you will bond much faster when you focus on rewarding him for his good behavior instead of punishing him for his mistakes. You will soon make a confident and happy dog ​​out of him.

Now that you appreciate the role of clicker training in dog and puppy training, don’t just assume that treats are redundant. Even if Rover no longer needs dog treats to exhibit good behavior, he’ll certainly appreciate getting the occasional tasty morsel, just because he’s a good dog…