What is clicker training?

Clicker training is a fun and easy to use method of training that uses positive reinforcement (rewards and treats) to encourage and shape desired behaviors in the dog. We communicate to the dog what it did correctly, and then we give a reward. This results in more of that behavior. Behavior that gets rewarded increases in frequency (this has been scientifically proven for decades, it's not a theory).

We want the dog to know exactly what behavior it's getting rewarded for. In order to make that very specific and very important connection in its brain, we choose a special sound that we only use for this purpose. In my case, I tongue-click at the exact moment of the desired behavior, and then immediately give the dog a treat (and it has to be a treat that the dog really likes).

Over time we raise our expectations for the behavior (ie, "sit for one minute in the kitchen" evolves to "sit for one minute at Starbucks", which is a much harder behavior since it involves more distraction and temptation). We do this slowly! We do it methodically. It's easy to do, it just requires some effort and a deliberate training plan.

Over time we also decrease the dependence on the treats. We do not end up with a dog who will only behave if you give it treats. The details for this are more complex than I want to explain here. But please know that we do wean them off of the need for constant reinforcement once the behavior is nice and solid.

Once a dog knows its set of desired behaviors very well, once those "muscles" so to speak have been developed, it's easier for that dog to "generalize" and perform those behaviors for a new person. But the reality is that anyone adopting Einstein is going to need to be interested in learning the basics of dog training. He deserves that much.

If you'd like to look at some great videos and free articles about clicker training, start by going to Karen Pryor's website. She's my hero!