Day 8 -- Markers

In order to reward behaviors we like, our timing needs to be pretty precise. If our rewards come seconds after the behavior has occurred, we are likely rewarding the incorrect behavior. It's really helpful if we have something that can bridge that exact moment when he's done the correct behavior and when we are able to deliver the reward. We use a marker to bridge that gap. There are a variety of ways to mark behavior but two of the most common are a clicker and a word like "Yes."

The marker needs to be clear, concise, and consistent. It's not praise. Praise comes after the marker. So, when you use the word "Yes!" it's a simple, clear, and short "Yes!" It's not drawn out. It's said in the same tone of voice every time. The marker tells the dog that they have done something correctly and a reward is coming.

The clicker is not a remote control. You don't point it at the dog (like in this picture). The most important rule with your marker is, if you click or say "yes," you have to reward. Accidentally click or click at the wrong time? You have to reward. Otherwise the clicker loses its effectiveness.

Another important piece is to refrain from reaching for a treat until AFTER the marker. It helps to put your hand on your leg until you click (or say "yes") so you are not tempted to reach for the treat.
It also helps to practice all these movements without the dog. Put a pile of treats on the table, issue the command (i.e. "Spot, sit"), mark it with a click or "yes," and move a treat from the treat pile to a new pile on the table. You are much better off practicing this without the dog so he gets a clear understanding of the clicker.

With a little practice under your belt, you're ready to put it all together. It's clear to him now what the click means.

A clicker has a lot of practical uses but it's also fun to capture cute behaviors like a play bow.

Clickers are a little more concise than the marker word "yes" but you always have your voice with you and you don't have coordinate a leash, treat bag, dog, children, AND a clicker if you just use your voice. I like clickers when I am training a specific task in a training session but definitely practice before you use it.