Clicker training is a highly effective reward based training method. It's about establishing a strong, understanding and communicative relationship between owner and dog.
The "click" offers an instant confirmation to your dog, that they have done the correct thing.
Consistency and timing are key when training, so you don't confuse your dog. E.g. Asking them to sit. As soon as their bottom touches the floor, "CLICK"! After the click, you can then treat as the reward.
Using a verbal command or confirmation, can excite your dog and cause them to be confused, as can a stroke or touch. Dogs communicate with each other, and us, using body language and calming signals. This is why hand signals and the clicker are more effective than verbal commands and confirmation.
The idea of clicker training is to mentally stimulate your dog. Letting them work things out is the part that really counts. This requires time and patience. Allowing them to, rather than making them, work out the answer themselves, builds respect and a better understanding. It also mentally tires them out. Dogs need this mental stimulation more than they need to go for a walk!
Remember, your dog only wants to please you. Anything you may consider to be wrong, is just their way of asking you a question, they can't speak so they show you!
Teaching them commands or even a job around the home, can contribute towards taking away responsibilities or concerns they might have else where.
Please consider learning more about your dog, their behaviour, how to read their body language and calming signals, and how to communicate with them. They might be trying to tell you a lot more than you realise.
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