What is clicker training?

Dog owners are catching on to the method that marine mammal trainers have employed for years. A simple signal lets the dog owner clearly communicate with his or her companion. The dog learns quickly that s/he can earn rewards by behaving well. How wonderful! Traditional trainers tend to correct their dogs for not responding to cues or commands. This can be very frustrating for a dog who really wants to work or get attention, but doesn't know how. The poor dog does not receive clear information other than what he is not supposed to do. Clicker training makes the communication between dog and handler easy. Using principles of learning and good management, the dog is always set up to succeed. The training relationship is enhanced and is solidly built on mutual cooperation instead of trepidation. Clicker training is not lenient training. It is not permissive, and it is not always easy. All learning is stressful, but given the chance to succeed, all a dog needs to understand is what will reward him and what will not. When a dog is misbehaving, clicker trainers look to themselves, for the answers as to "why is this dog behaving this way," and usually discover the reason is a lack of clear communication and management, rather than disobedience. You can clicker train for obedience, agility, conformation, freestyle, and rally. Clicker training has also been especially helpful with dogs that have behavior problems. The clicker is a powerful tool. The training is fun, fast, and very effective.

Read more at:  http://www.clickertraining.com/node/1223

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