What is a clicker?

A clicker is an inexpensive device with a small piece of metal enclosed in a case with a button on top. When this button is pushed a satisfying "pop" sound is made. When training your dog is serves as an instant marker or cue.

Rather then saying "GOOD GIRL!" , then searching through your pocket for a treat then rewarding your dog, it tells your dog they did it right (or are close, when you first begin teaching them the behavior). The "pop" cue is an instant marker to your dog that she did it right. When you click, your dog is thinking "Woo hoo! I got it right! Let's party like it's 1999! I get FOOD!"

Training your dog with a clicker is simple, the dog is encouraged to do the dog desired behavior, a click sound is made and a small piece of food that is quickly eaten is given, so that the both of you can get back to training. The clicker eliminates much of the geusswork for the dog by telling her she did it right.

A clicker is much like James Bond device. It's small device that can be taken with you anywhere and that can be used to communicate. Most importantly, it has a leeeeeeever (pronounce that with an English accent) that gives you the power to instantly cue your dog in that they are doing something right.