A Clicker Trainer Is a Quicker Trainer

I am always looking for better training methods in my work with dogs. Not only do I look for the fastest way but also the easiest way for the dog to understand what I want. If you put yourself in the position of the dog you will see that pushing, pulling and even talking, praising and petting can actually make it confusing and more difficult for them to learn. It certainly makes it harder for the dog to differentiate exactly what the cue is to perform a particular action.

The truth is that your dog is often trying so hard to figure out what you want it gets confused if you're not clear and concise with your training. What your dog really needs when you train is consistency and for you to do the same thing twice. That's why clicker training is the most effective training method.

For the uninitiated, the clicker is just a small handheld noisemaker, which has a metal strip that makes a distinct "click" when pressed and released. The trainer clicks at the exact moment the dog has properly performed the behavior we're teaching. Since the clicker is a unique sound to the dog it presents a fabulous learning moment and speeds us to that "ah ha" moment, that "light bulb goes off moment" where the trainer and dog are in such synchronicity and rhythm that you can actually see the dog "get it".

For this all to come together, the dog needs to know that the sound of the click signifies that they did something right, that we like what they did, and that a reward is coming. You should notice after several repetitions of a click and treat that the dog responds to the sound of the clicker by looking at you. Many people inadvertently think this is because we are clicking to get the dog's attention. But if you've properly introduced the clicker what's really happening is the dog is looking at you after the moment of the sound because it's made the association that the click has not only identified the proper action or behavior but more importantly, that the rewards of praise and a treat will follow.

Let's begin our training with teaching our dog to sit on command. The first step is to get the dog to actually sit and let it know that it did what we wanted. With most dogs, it will be easy to lure them to sit by guiding a treat slightly above their head. Also, we aren't going to give a verbal command, just get them to sit. If it doesn't sit, move the treat a little up or down or forward or behind their head. Remember that the click is going to mark the right response from the dog so the instant their butt hits the ground you should click, praise and give them a treat. If you want to teach the dog to stay seated you can click and treat again before the dog gets up.

The second step is to get the dog to perform reliably when we want them to and this is why it's extremely important to incorporate praise into the process. We certainly don't want our dogs to mind us only when there is food. So my first rule in training with food is that we always praise our dog right before we give the treat. The key thing to remember at this stage is click/praise/treat in that order...every time. My second rule is to make the food rewards intermittent and to use them every second or third time. This is often referred to as fading the treats or fading the lure.

For now we are going to give a treat every time. Figure on a rate of about 10-15 treats a minute for beginning training to keep the dog's interest. As the dog learns you can reduce the amount of treats but we never actually stop giving rewards entirely. Just as we like being recognized for a 'job well done,' so does your dog.

The third and final step is to put the behavior on cue or on command. At this point, we can start using a "sit" command because we are sure we can get the dog to perform reliably every time we give the hand signal. If you've done everything right so far you have already taught the dog a hand signal for sit when you raised your hand above the dog's head. The proper time to give a command is right before we get the desired behavior from the dog, so in this case right before we lift our hand is the right time to say "sit". Of course we still click/praise/treat when the dog sits on our command as well.

Working with a clicker is the best method for simply, quickly and effectively training almost any dog. It takes a little more work and coordination initially, but in the long run it's faster and easier for both you and your dog. Even if your dog already knows some commands or has prior training, using a clicker will still serve to speed up and perfect its responses in addition to helping eliminate any past training mistakes or confusion. It's also fun and a great way to bond with your dog that wants nothing more than to interact in a positive way with you. You're in this together and with proper clicker training you'll both reap the rewards for many years to come.

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Praise & Treats: The Major Advantages of Positive Reinforcement in Training of Dogs

Time is very important when it comes to the use of positive reinforcement as a training method for dogs. Firstly, the reward, whatever it might be, should come immediately, within a few seconds. Otherwise, your dog might fail to associate it with the proper action, for which he has been rewarded.

Clicker training is another good tool to mark the time of the good behavior. It can also improve the timing and help your dog connect the action with the behavior. Once he hears the sound of the clicker, he will know that the reward will follow soon.

Using Positive Reinforcement to Train

Positive reinforcement can be used for various forms of dog training. Using positive reinforcement during crate training or potty training is usually a good idea. This will help him to shape his behavior just like the way you want it.

You can also reward your dog for simple behaviors like learning to remain seated when you are opening the gates of your garden to let him out or even before coming in. But, make sure that you do not reward him for bad behaviors. For instance, if you let him out, every time he starts barking, then he will get the wrong message.

Keep it Simple and Consistent

The rewards should be simple like praise or a treat that your dog likes. Often a pat along with a verbal praise of "Good Boy!" works well with dogs. Also, at the same time, you can offer him treats like food or playthings he likes.

The treat you choose should be very enticing. It can be things that your dog actually loves. It should be simple and easily acceptable. Do not offer him something which he will take time to chew because it will beat the purpose of getting a quick reward. Also, do not bore him with the same treats over and over again. This might bring down the motivation level.

Shaping Desired behavior

Positive reinforcement helps in the shaping of a good behavior. In this way, you can push him a bit every time he reaches the desired level or expected level of the behavior, by increasing the amount of reward. Make sure that your furry buddy understands that the rewards are increasing each time he is getting a step closer of reaching the goal.

For instance, if you are planning on positively reinforcing the behavior of shaking hands then you should start rewarding or parsing him when he first lifts his paws. Then you should help him shape his behavior furthermore by rewarding a bit more when he touches your hand. After that increase the reward when he lets you hold on to his paw and finally giving him the ultimate reward once he actually learns to shake hands.

Positive reinforcement by means of giving rewards is certainly a good ploy. It helps your dog understand the things expected out of him and the things you desire him to do.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Praise-and-Treats:-The-Major-Advantages-of-Positive-Reinforcement-in-Training-of-Dogs&id=9730389

Tips on Hiring a Great Professional Dog Trainer

Hiring a professional dog trainer can be a tricky process because all dogs are not the same and use different training methods. This article will help show you how to select a trainer that can help you get the most out of your pet.

1. Knowing what to look for in a dog trainer. Most dog owners simply want a well behaved pet and they are not looking to compete with their dog or at least not in the beginning. However if you're looking to do obedience competition you need to find a trainer that has that type of experience, most dog trainers don't.

Just a couple of extra pointers that may save you some misery down the line. Does your dog trainer have a business license? Does your dog trainer have liability insurance? Is your dog trainer listed in the phonebook? I believe all legitimate businesses have these things, don't you?

2. Dog trainer qualifications. While talking about qualifications experience is very important when hiring a dog trainer. Just like anything else the longer you do it and the more dogs that you're involved with the better you get at dog training. If you're simply looking for obedience training the pool for trainers is much larger than for example if you're looking for a trainer who can help you with something like aggression problems. Make sure you find a trainer that has experience with the issues that you're concerned with.

3. What methods does this trainer use? This is a big one. For example do you want a trainer who uses treats or does clicker training? Probably not, most of my clients want somebody who can teach them how to train their dog out of mutual trust and respect rather than using a bribing type method. I mean let's get real who wants to carry around treats or a clicker in your pocket for the rest of your life?

4. Which type of training is best, group classes or private lessons? That's a simple answer. Private in home lessons are definitely the best way to train your dog and I'll tell you why. In a group class there may be 10 to 15 people and their dogs in the class. Your dog is so interested in all the other dogs and people that it's really hard for you to get its attention. You're so busy taking care of your dog and keeping it away from the other dogs that you're not even having time to listen to the instructor. Plus in a group class the instructor is teaching very generic exercises some of which you may be interested in and others that you're not.

In private lessons the instructor is working with you and your dog in your home, and that's where you want your dog to behave the best. He's also working on exercises that are important to you and your family's lifestyle. Hands down private in-home training is the best way to go.

5. What expectations you should have? With any basic obedience class whether a group or private lessons at a minimum your dog should be able to walk on a loose leash, sit and down on command, sit stay and down stay as well as come when called.

If you know what to look for in a dog trainer it should help you decide who to choose. Apply the helpful advice from this article and soon you'll be on your way to having a dog trainer that is the right match for your pet.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Tips-on-Hiring-a-Great-Professional-Dog-Trainer&id=8347257

Training Your Dog Using a Simple Device Called a Clicker

Training your dog in obedience will help develop trust and respect from your pet. Training him with basic commands will lead to a better-behaved dog and a more enjoyable experience with your pet. Using the clicker training method is the fastest and simplest technique for the beginner.

Using a Simple Inexpensive Device

Dog Training Clicker

A more recent innovative approach to training your pet is the clicker training method. Clicker training is a form of operant conditioning in which the canine is trained as a result of a series of phases, until he will is able to connect specific actions using an incentive or reward. The trainer uses a device known as a dog clicker. When pressed, a clear unique sound is heard which helps your dog to focus his attention to the task at hand.

This clear distinct sound makes it possible for your dog to concentrate on exactly what he has just executed. It also enables your pet to focus on the command desired and the treat he will be rewarded with. This is the main tool used for clicker trainers; however it is not the only tool that clicker trainers use.

Trainers frequently make use of a technique known as targeting, which will help your dog concentrate on more complicated actions, for example, being directed to run to specific targets.

To lead your dog to a specific location another tool is used. A target stick is generally used for this purpose. It helps to lure your dog to a specific target area. You can easily find this tool in any pet store.

If this type of training is desired, you can either hire a trainer, take your dog to obedience classes or you can easily set aside 30 minutes or less per day using the clicker method and train easily and conveniently at home.

Easily Train Your Dog at Home

Personally training your dog is a wonderful experience for you and your dog. The bond and respect will easily be established between both of you. Training your dog at home is very convenient and you can easily structure your schedule to fit a few minutes a day for your dog. Before you start you will need a few basic items listed here: a clicker, some treats, a target stick and a guide-book.

What makes clicker training a top choice among many home trainer's, is the fact that no harsh punishment is ever used. No physical pain or yelling at your dog is advisable. To correct your dog when he doesn't understand a command given using a signal word such as 'wrong' can be used. When he doesn't receive his reward he will get the message quickly.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Training-Your-Dog-Using-a-Simple-Device-Called-a-Clicker&id=7038663

Getting Started with Clicker Training-Basic Technique Tutorial for Begi...

If getting started with clicker training your dog, watch the following video for some guidance.