Clicker training refers to using a small mechanical clicker to mark a particular behavior you wish to reinforce, e.g., when the dog sits. Initially, you use the clicker at the same time as you give a reward (usually a treat); over time, the animal associates the sound of the clicker with the treat. Eventually, the clicker can be used without the treat because the sound itself becomes rewarding. Timing is crucial when using clicker training because the sound of the click tells the dog it is doing exactly the right thing and "bridges" the gap between when the behavior occurs and when the treat is given. It was originally used to train dolphins and other marine animals as described in the book "Don't Shoot the Dog" by Karen Pryor. A good book to start with is "Getting Started: Clicker Training for Dogs" by Karen Pryor. Clicker training can be a safe, humane, and fun way to train your dog or any animal.
For more information, see:
Clicker Training Basics
