I will not try to blind you with science because I am not clever enough! Instead I will try and set out the information you will need to try clicker training for yourself as simply as I can, and to try and answer the most frequently asked questions about it.
WHAT IS A CLICKER?
This is not as daft as it seems because lots of people do not know. It is a small plastic box with a metal spring inside which when pressed makes a click click sound. See one "HERE"
Small peasized portions of 'fresh' food that your dog really likes, such as chicken, sausage, cheese or the ultimate prize baked liver! Keep them in a small container.
The clicker gives a consistant signal to your dog that the action they are performing is the right one and that a reward, a treat will follow.
It can teach your dog to perform all the right moves from basic obedience to trick training, agility, flyball and whatever else you may want! It is very useful in housebreaking puppies!
Although puppies respond very well you can use this method on any age of canine. "my dog is too old" I hear you say! No he is not! I have a 13 year old crossbreed in my class and he responds with enthusiasm and just loves it. Even if Fido is obedient and knows all the basics why not teach him some new moves like tricks. Dogs get bored too you know, get their brain into gear, go on!!!
No! Choose a flat collar and lead.
Sit down in front of Fido, treats in your container beside you on a table. CLICK YOUR CLICKER and then immediately shove a treat into his mouth. Ignoring his surprised expression repeat this manoeuvre 15 to 20 times in quick succession or until he is beginning to recognise the click sound and looks for his reward. IT IS IMPORTANT TO FOLLOW EVERY SINGLE CLICK WITH A TREAT. Have lots of patience, some catch on quick others not so! Keep going until they reliably associate a click with a treat.Now you are cooking!!! Onto the next step....