We clicker train our Boxers
I'd never train any other way these days. It has been quite successful, our dogs have a few titles. It would probably be easier if you could go to an experienced trainer but there is no reason you can not try it yourself - at the very worst all you will end up with is a naughty, possibly chubby dog (if you are using food rewards).
This site has a listing of people who run clicker classes and you might find someone near you:
http://www.travelvan.net/cgi-bin/marge/mainpage.pl
This previous thread might be useful if you would like to start yourself without going to class:
http://www.boxerworld.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=13511
Here are some good clicker resources:
Karen Pryor’s Clicker Training Start-Up Kit
Karen Pryor, 1996
When you are actually ready to try clicker training your canine friend, we recommend Karen’s Clicker Training Start-Up Kit, which contains a copy of Clicker Training for Your Dog, 2 clickers, a copy of Don’t Shoot the Dog News, and an instruction sheet for getting started with the clicker.
Clicker Magic Video
Karen Pryor, 1997, 56 Min.
To see clicker training in action, get Clicker Magic, a video from Karen’s seminars that will inspire you whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trainer.
This is wonderful and well worth buying.
Clicker Fun: Click & Go Video
Deb Jones, 1999, 30 Min.
Presents the principles of clicker training, based on sound scientific principles and positive methods. You will learn how to use clicker-based methods to teach your dog new behaviors, using shaping, luring and targeting techniques. An excellent overview for anyone interested in learning how to clicker train correctly and effectively
TAKE A BOW...WOW! FUN AND FUNCTIONAL DOG TRICKS
by Virginia Broitman & Sherri Lippman
A collection of fun and functional dog tricks. Some are suitable for assistance dog training, meeting a long-time demand!! Well-done and enjoyable, training techniques are based on positive reinforcement, and the video comes with a clicker. Tricks include, take a bow, play dead, ring a bell (when you need to go out), open and close doors, wave, chase your tail, and retrieve your leash, are just some of the tricks included.
CLICKING WITH YOUR DOG: STEP-BY-STEP IN PICTURES
by Peggy Tillman *Whatever your level of training ability, you're going to love this new clicker training book! Highly recommended by Karen Pryor, here's the pet-friendly way to teach your dog good manners and great tricks - without punishment or force. Clicker training, a new method of animal training using positive reinforcement and a clicker, is easy for you and fun for your dog! Clicking with Your Dog will show you the clicker way to teach: Sit to greet people instead of jumping up Walk on a leash without pulling Come when called - every time Stay home alone quietly Find the right place to "go" Play hide and seek and other fun games and tricks All in easy to understand step-by-step pictures! The answer for all pet owners who want a dog to be a real partner and friend. Step-by-step illustrations explain the clicking process more clearly than ever before.
There is also all the resources on the
Clicker Solutions recommended reading list http://www.clickersolutions.com/clickersolutions/reading.htm
Hope this helps.
