Clicker Training is a positive reinforcement method that can be used to train any mammal, domesticated or wild. This method uses a device called a clicker that makes a “click” noise to mark a behavior that we want to reinforce in our dog. In the beginning the “click” does not means anything to the dog. This mehtod allows us to reinforce the behaviors we wan by the clicking noise.
Conditioning the Clicking Noise
We begin by using a primary reinforcer (food, toy, praise, ect). Then it is as simple as Clicking the device, and treating the dog. Repeat every time you click. You will continue this pattern until your dog is predicting the “click”.
Why do we Use the Clicker
Simply put it is because it makes short, consistent sounds. Just like in most of my training I use “Yes” as a marker or clicker word. The Yes is the same as the clicker. It is a marker to mark the behavior we want in the dog. This is not a forever tool, although it can be if needed. It speeds up the training process but is not necessary for the dogs whole life.
Why Does it Work?
Ivan Pavlov introduced classical conditioning by ringing a bell before feeding dogs. He took note that the dogs started to salivate at the sound of the bell. The Palvov method is often mentioned in psychology classes. With Clicker training we are using an unconditioned stimulus (dog treats) to provide an unconditional response (happiness, desire, etc). Once we have discovered the unconditioned stimulus we need to use our neutral stimulus (clicker). It is the clicker because it is meaningless to the dog until we condition the dog to it.
Pairing the Clicker with Treats
Next we pair the clicker (neutral stimulus) with the unconditioned stimulus (treats). This will turn the clicker into a conditioned stimulus because we have conditioned the dog to respond to the clicker because the clicker means treats. Now we can use the Clicker (conditioned stimulus) to cause a response of happiness all on its own.
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