Clicker Training for your Yorkshire Terrier
Disciplining a dog starts with basic commands. Whatever breed of dog you have, clicker training is one of the simplest yet most effective forms of dog training. With a simple clicker in hand, you are ready to go.
How Clicker Training Works
A clicker is a robust, sharp sound that can be heard 20 yards away. This sound will be the basis for your Yorkshire Terrier to do a specific command. It aims to direct your dog to good, desirable behaviours, after which a reward is given.
Clicker dog training doesn’t start with the clicker itself. First, let your dog recognize what a clicker is. Then, let him know that this object is a reward for any good action he executes. Before giving him a clicker, you may want to consider buying some delicious treats or a cheap clicker first.
Always use the clicker only when your dog does your command well. It is one way of telling him, “Good job!” Follow it up with a treat such as a bone or a cookie. A pleasant greeting may sometimes help; say it every time so your dog can quickly associate it with doing good.
How Clicker Dog Training is Done
Clicker Training, your Yorkshire Terrier, remember three simple steps to respond. First, get his attention by asking him to do something you want. This can be anything from sitting, lying down, rolling over, or performing a trick you once taught him. Once he does, mark it with a clicker and give him a treat.
It usually takes around three clicker markings before your dog recognizes what you are trying to teach him – that is, do a specific action whenever you use the clicker. The advantage of this type of training is that dogs become attentive when hearing a strong and strange sound because they don’t usually understand verbal commands. Furthermore, you can incorporate a clicker to reinforce him effectively.
For clicker training to be more effective, use it consistently. The next time your Yorkshire Terrier does his action well, you no longer have to incorporate a reward; instead, give him a hug, praise, or obvious affection.
Transitioning to a Command
Introducing a verbal command with the clicker is very simple. All you have to do is use the clicker and say the cue to get your dog’s attention. If he does, follow up with a reward. Repeat your command whenever you use the clicker until he associates your word, the clicker, and the reinforcement with the action you want him to take. Eventually, your dog will learn to respond to your clicker or cue every time, even if there are no treats around.
Pleasing you is what your Yorkshire Terrier always wants. Thus, if he realizes that doing an action by using a clicker pleases him, he will willingly do it. Clicker dog training is a very effective technique for teaching your dog basic commands or actions. A clicker makes everything else easier.
