An Introduction to Clicker Training
GETTING STARTED IN CLICKER TRAINING
My first introduction to Clicker Training, was when I attended a weekend workshop for "Dancing With Dogs", along with my two year old, border collie, Bindi. When the instructor demonstrated a shaping session with one of her dogs...it was like...WOW...can I really do that??? Her dogs had been entirely clicker trained in the sport or Canine Freestyle. I have been hooked on clicker training ever since.
One of the best things about clicker training, is that it not only teaches the dog a behaviour that it will never forget, but that it is heaps of fun for both you & your dog. By shaping a behaviour using a clicker, the dog will learn up to 50 % faster than any other method, including using your voice as a marker. So get clicking & enjoy the journey together.....your dog will thank you for it :)
I did a "Clicker Training for Beginners" demonstration at my local Dog Obedience & Agility Club & so, put together the notes in the following link (PDF Format). I hope that the notes may at least encourage you to give clicker training a try & that it answers any questions you have always wanted to ask about CT. It is not at all difficult & has so many applications, for training your dog in obedience, agility, canine freestyle, party tricks, hunting, tracking, the show ring or just plain good manners. It is also a very successful tool for correcting behaviours, such as reactivity, barking,
jumping up, running away, distractions & even dog aggression (in the right hands)
Click here for Introduction to Clicker Training (PDF File)