Clicker Training For Faster Tricks!

Want to train your cat or dog a little faster and have that behavior “stick” better? Try clicker training.

What is a clicker?

A clicker is a little handheld device that makes a clicking sound when pressed, and is used to reward behaviors during training, along with other rewards like treats. This leads to faster speed of training and behaviors that stick around longer.

Why does it work?

Psychological Theory Behind Clicker Training:

Operant conditioning– a theory developed by psychologist B.F. Skinner that outlines how behaviors can be shaped and maintained through reinforcement and punishment.

Positive reinforcement- adding a desirable stimulus (treats and praise) increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.
Negative reinforcement- removing an undesired stimulus to increase desired behavior. Example- removing an uncomfortably tight collar when the dog is not pulling on the leash, increases the chances of loose leash walking in the future.
Punishment- adding an undesirable stimulus to decrease unwanted behaviors. Example- spraying a cat with water when it claws furniture.

Classical Conditioning-

Clicker training also involves elements of classical conditioning (Pavlovian conditioning), where the clicker sound becomes a stimulus that predicts the arrival of a treat. Think dinner bell and Pavlov’s salivating dogs anticipating their dinner.

It’s in the Timing- Bridging the Gap

A bridging stimulus, often called a bridge, is a consistent and distinct signal given at the precise moment the desired behavior occurs. This signal bridges the time between the behavior and the delivery of the reward, ensuring the animal understands which action is being rewarded. The click sound can be produced at the exact moment the behavior occurs, bridging the gap until the treat is delivered.

Enough theory, how do you really do it?

Condition/ charge the clicker:

Click the clicker and immediately give a treat reward. This will teach your pet that the click means a treat is coming right away. Repeat this several times per training session, daily, until the pet associates the sound of the clicker with an incoming treat.

Marking Behavior:

When your pet performs a desired behavior, immediately click the clicker and then give a treat. The click serves as a precise marker that identifies the exact behavior being rewarded.

The timing of the click is crucial. It must occur at the exact moment the desired behavior happens.

Benefits of Clicker Training:

Clear Communication: The click provides a clear and consistent signal to the animal, making it easier for them to understand what behavior is being rewarded.
Positive Experience– uses positive reinforcement, creating a fun experience.
Faster training speed- reducing confusion and speeding up the learning process.
Increased stickiness: the behavior is likely to be retained after a break

Does science support these claims?

Yes, there are several scientific studies that show increased learning speed and increased retention (stickiness) of behaviors in dogs when trained .

But what about cats?

You can clicker train cats too! They are usually not as food-motivated as dogs, so I suggest keeping the training short and sweet, and do it while the kitty is hungry, using a really high-value treat.