What is Clicker Training for Dogs?

Overview

What is Clicker Training for Dogs?

Clicker training is a method of training that utilizes a mechanical clicking sound to let the dog know when he has behaved correctly. Used at first in tandem with positive reinforcement such as treats and praise, the click sound may eventually be replaced by a vocal or visual cue for the behavior the dog now knows is what you want.
Function

Clicker training relies on behavioral psychology by immediately rewarding desired behavior with the click sound, followed by treats or praise when the dog returns to your side. The click functions as a "bridging signal" between the exact behavior and the reward.

Time Frame

You must click DURING the desired behavior, not after it finishes. Keep practice sessions short.
Effects

While behavior conditioning using a clicker begins as classical conditioning---associating an action with a sound---dogs are intelligent enough to make the leap to operant conditioning: repeating the behavior on purpose to get the reward.
Benefits

A click is a clear signal the dog does not hear at other times. The dog will know that the click sound is only for training and only to reward him. The click does not vary in tone or pitch like our voices can, which makes it superior to a voice command when learning a new behavior.
Warning

Do not use the clicker when frustrated. Correction training is completely opposite to clicker training. Scolding and leash-jerking will not help you positively reinforce behavior with a clicker. You'll end up with a confused dog.
Expert Insight

If your dog isn't picking up on the desired goal behavior, you may be clicking too late. Click when he first begins toward the behavior you want. Extend the timing the closer he gets to ideal.
Fun Fact

Clicker training is used by human athletic coaches and teachers on their human students. Called TAGteach (Teaching with Acoustical Guidance), this type of positive training reaches a different part of the brain than verbal critiques of what needs to be fixed.