How to Use Clicker Training With Multiple Dogs

Clicker training is an effective method used to reinforce positive behavior in dogs. A clicker is a small plastic square with a button in the middle. When the button is pressed, a "click" sound is made that grabs your dog's attention. Using a clicker conditions dogs to associate the click sound with a variety of positive behaviors. Clickers are more effective than verbal commands, since dogs can be easily confused by different words. Clicker training offers more consistency and can be used to train dogs individually or in groups. When dogs are in groups, they can be easily distracted; however, the unique sound of the clicker causes dogs to focus on the "click" rather than on one another. The following steps will explain how to use clicker training with multiple dogs.

Things You'll Need

• Clicker
• Dog treats

Instructions

How to Use Clicker Training With Multiple Dogs

1. Bring the dogs to a quiet area where there are no distractions. The dogs will need to be focused, so do not train more than three dogs together at a time. If more than three dogs need training, keep the extra dogs in a separate area where they will not disturb the lesson. Rotate the groups when the lesson is finished.

2. 

   Give the dogs a simple command that they are already familiar with such as "Sit." Use an excited and upbeat voice to give the command. The dogs will associate a happy voice with positive behavior.

3. Click the clicker as the dogs are performing the command. Do not wait until after the command is performed to use the clicker. The dogs must associate the clicker with their behavior, so waiting until after it is finished can be confusing for the dogs.

4. 

   Give a treat immediately after the positive behavior is completed. This will help the dogs associate the clicker with receiving a reward. Dogs being trained together may get distracted and might not perform the command at the same time. In this case, give all of the dogs a reward and repeat the command. After a few repetitions, the dogs will begin to associate the clicker with the command given.

5. Try different commands. Use the clicker and a reward to give the dogs other commands they are familiar with. Practice each command no more than five times. Dogs being trained together are easily distracted, so short and precise lessons will hold their attention span and keep them from losing interest.

6. 

   Try new commands. Once the dogs have successfully associated the clicker with commands they are familiar with, teach them a new command. Use an upbeat voice to give the command, and follow the positive behavior with a click and a treat. Learning a new command may take a few repetitions, but do not click or reward the dogs until the command has been performed properly. This will teach the dogs to associate the clicker with a desired behavior. With enough practice, the clicker will become an effective way to give commands and help reinforce good behavior.

Tips & Warnings

• If a dog is not able to focus in a group setting, train the dog individually away from distractions.

• Clicker training is used to reinforce good behavior. Do not use a clicker to call the dog or to punish it. This will confuse the dog and may cause it to be afraid of the clicker.