Intro to Clicker Training

So we have touched on some methods of training, reviewed training equipment, talked about socializing our dogs, and keeping them exercised and healthy.  It's time to tackle some actual dog training.  I like to start all dogs off with clicker/marker training first.  This provides a positive foundation for training encouraging the dog to want to work and building your relationship.

Please check out this video on our intro to clicker training your dog!
K9 180 Intro to Clicker Training

Here's a list of the items used in this training video

1. Treat Pouch - you can use a clean tool pouch as well!
2. Training Treats - we want high value treats, here are some great ideas
1. Bil-Jac
2. Pet Fresh or Deli Fresh rolled dog food cut into small bite sized pieces
3. Hot Dog pieces - try to limit hot dogs as they aren't as healthy for your dog
4. Bits of Cook Unseasoned Chicken or Beef - again cut to a good size
3. Clicker - you can get these off the internet or at your local pet store

Treat Size - depending on the size of your dog we are looking for a treat size of a pea or cheerio

You want a treat that is not hard or crunchy.  We want our dog to be able to consume it quickly and easily.

So how do I feed my dog while clicker training?

I recommend feeding your dog twice a day.  If you dog is free fed right now start out by putting dog food out twice a day for 15 minutes and then pick it back up.  I promise your dog will eat when they are hungry.  Make sure you're using a high quality food and that your veterinarian doesn't have any special feeding guidelines.  Young puppies (dogs under 12 months) should be fed 3 times a day when possible.

You're clicker training session should come before a regular feeding time.  Ex: my dogs eat at 7am and 6pm about every day.  So our clicker training sessions should be at 6:30am and/or 5:30pm so that my dogs are at their hungriest point and ready for their meal.

For young puppies and smaller dogs their clicker training session can very easily replace a meal so make sure that you remove food from your dogs regular feeding based on the amount of healthy treats they get during training.