Clicker training

[Indy's mom]

I'm always looking for something new to do with Indy, mostly because if we have a new class, that means I have homework, reminds me to work with him, we're both better behaved

So far, Indy has attended and passed with flying colors, basic obedience, canine good citizen. He walks beautifully and knows basic commands very well. Here's my dilemna. I've started clicker classes with him, and I think I'm a poor student. Since we've started, he's becoming far slower to respond to things that didn't used to require a command. For instance, sit when I stop walking. Is this because I'm still not quick enough with the clicker? My instructor is a very patient man (thankfully), I don't want to undo all of Indy's good work. Am I going to foul him up?

I really like that the clicker method is strictly positive, no corrections. Any helpful hints would be much appreciated.

Thanks,
Sandy

 

[RonaldMM]

I also tried clicker training with Drake. It seemed to add another step and to slow me down. I found we were more successful with sign training and verbal commands. But I know several who use clicker training and are successful! Good luck!

 

[IluvLucy]

Clicker training didn't work for me either. Don't get me wrong, it seems to work fine for some people. Since you were doing good before, instead of trying a new style of training, how about training for a new sport? Do you have Agility classes where you are? Or how about trying Rally? Or maybe training for competeing in Obedience? There are lots of challenges for both of you to take on if want to. I know it keeps me and J.C. busy! :D

 

[Indy's mom]

I think we'll be working on versatility next. The truth is I'm a tad bit worried about agility, don't want to actually teach him to jump. Alright, I'm a wimp! You see right now, If I want him to stay out of an area I can block it off by putting a 8 inch - that's 8 INCH high block across the door. He won't jump it. So, really hesitatnt to teach him to jump. He jumps like a kangaroo in the yard when he's playing, but forgets all about it, just sort of worried about making a connection - you know boxers

Thanks for the tips, suggestions. He's a bright dog, but I think, I'm probably a bit too slow for the clicker. I'll keep trying of course, but definitely going to keep moving with what works for us too.

 

[agilityboxer]

Is your instructor telling you that your clicker timing is off? I just dont understand why it would be slowing him down. I've done agility training with 2 of my 3 boxers and the clicker is my best friend. I typically hold the leash and the clicker in the hand away from the dog. And treats in the hand closest to the dog. I try to click and treat at the same time, but if Im too slow with the treats the clicker is immediate positive reinforcement. It has worked really well for us I hope everything works out for you guys!

Oh, and as for the agility you might want to reconsider. Ive taken about 10 different types of classes over the years and I really love the agility. With my 2nd agility dog I didnt even do basic obed first. He already knew how to sit but that was really it. It is a fun way to do the basics, and for my dogs more effective than your typical class in 1/2 the time.

 

[Indy's mom]

I'm sure the timing is all me. Indy's very bright and seems to catch on to things very quickly, that's why I don't want to do anything to foul him up. We're still working with the clicker, it's getting better, or should I say I'm getting quicker! Thanks for the helpful suggestion about the agility, I will reconsider. I really love keeping him involved, he so loves classes, the socializing and the activity. He's just such a happy dog, that it's a lot of fun working/playing with him.

 

[IluvLucy]

You really should look into Agility classes! I was worried about teaching J.C. to jump too, because the fence around our yard is only 4 ft. high and he had never shown an interest in trying to jump it. He still doesn't try! I think it is a matter of them knowing when they should jump and when they shouldn't.

 

[Heidi Glisbo]

It is very important to remember that "you get what you click for" so you have to be precise with your clicker.

One other thing that is important is that you need to remember to ask for more.
Move forward and demand more. If you want your dog to sit faster then you need to click when it is doing it faster, faster and faster.
When the dog does ok but not its best it is still good but not good enoigh for a click and a treat.
A click should not come all the time and for everything. A click comes when the dog is doing really good :o)

Also if something is working just fine, then why use the clicker?
The clicker is a great tool, but one do not have to use it for everything ;o)

 

[hobiehunter]

I found that I don't have enough hands to use a clicker. What has worked for me is a "bridge word", saying "good" in a short and slightly higher pitch instead of a "click". My hands are free to hold treats, leash... or to give hand signals.

 

[Paul Stoller]

Hi There!

I tried the clicker with our Cassius, and he learned to associate the clicker with his treats instead of the good behavoiur. When the treats ran out he knew, and would then continue with his bad behaviour. Like him "Pulling" me when we would be on our walks. My timming was fine, but I too had my hands full between clicker,treats, and his lead. I stopped useing it, and find that I should have had a little more patience with it. Well good luck!! Cassius and I in Toronto!