What is a dog training clicker?

A pet clicker is simply a device that you hold in your hand and which is able to make a clicking sound that your dog will come to recognize. It is usually made of plastic and has a strip of metal inside. When you press down, it makes a click. Clicker training is an effective way to train your dog. It is a reward based training approach but introduces another step in between your dog carrying out the desired behavior and you giving your dog a treat. It can be hard to get the treat to your dog quickly enough so they may not associate the right behavior with the treat. A clicker gives you a fast way of reacting to good behavior.

What age should I start clicker training?

You can use clicker training on a dog of any age but it is best to start clicker training dogs when they are pups. When you first get your pup home, give them some time to settle in and to feel less anxious about their new surroundings. This can take a few days. Once they feel confident that they can trust you and that their basic physical needs will be met, you can start the basics of clicker training.

Do I need to buy more than one clicker?

The manufacturers of training clickers do all they can to help you not to lose them! They make them easy to hold so that you are less likely to drop them. They use brightly colored materials so that if you do drop them you can find them easily. They also often supply them with a means of attaching them to your body such as a wrist strap or a clip to attach to a belt loop.