Last Updated: 13/11/2025
Clicker Training
Wanting to know more about clicker training for your dog? Check out how it works and how you can get started with your dog from our vet team.
Author: Dr Teagan Lever BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 3 minutes - short read
Have you heard people talking about clicker training and wondered what they were on about? Clicker training is basically a way of signalling desirable behaviour to your dog in order to 'capture' it. A good way to think of the clicker is like a camera that takes a picture of the desired behaviour at the instant it occurs.The clicker is paired with positive reinforcement (usually training treats) to reinforce and teach the behaviour.
How Clicker Training Works
When animals are trained using a clicker, they are learning through a process known as operant conditioning. In a nutshell, operant conditioning teaches the dog that certain behaviours result in consequences and these either then increase or decrease the likelihood that they will perform these behaviours again.
Clicker training works as part of positive reinforcement. This means that when the dog performs the desired behaviour, they are given something (a click and treat) to reinforce the behaviour, which makes it more likely to happen again.
Why Use a Clicker for Dog Training?
You may be wondering why a simple 'good boy' or 'yes' will not suffice. One reason why a clicker is preferred is that the click is a distinctive sound your dog will hear at no other time. This means they will very quickly associate the click with a reward for a desired behaviour and nothing else. In addition, the clicker will consistently make the same sound over and over again, in contrast to your voice which may change with the emotion or the meaning of the words you are using. In essence, the clicker is a much clearer and more accurate way to communicate with your dog.
Top Recommended Products for Clicker Training
There are several different types of clicker or whistle to choose from. The choice is entirely up to you and dependent on your preference. There are several types that function as both a clicker and whistle, and also one that has 2 different whistle tones to help to train 2 dogs.
How to Clicker Train your Dog
Clicker training can be used to capture and teach almost any behaviour in many species.
The basic process is:
- Get the animal to perform the behaviour (for example by 'luring' with a treat).
- âCapture the behaviour with the clicker. It is important to capture the behaviour immediately, as soon as it is performed. The clicker tells your dog that their behaviour at the exact moment they hear the 'click' was the correct one.
- Reinforce the behaviour with a treat.
Consistency is the single most important thing you can do when training your dog. Everyone who is involved in training should use consistent techniques, commands and rewards when training, to avoid confusing your dog. Set your dog up for success - when teaching a new behaviour, start in an environment without distractions to help your dog to focus. As your dog succeeds, you can start to practice in different environments to solidify the behaviour.
Remember to always reward good behaviour, and ignore any unwanted behaviours - your dog wants to succeed and their incorrect attempts are not 'bad' or 'wrong'. Simply ignore the incorrect behaviours and be sure to capture the correct behaviour immediately.
What if my Dog is Not Food Motivated?
If your dog is not showing interest in practising their training with food as a reward, firstly make sure that they don't have free access to food. If they do love their normal food, then consider dividing their daily ration up into small portions that they have to work for.
Some dogs are just not as motivated by food, which can make training a little more tricky. In place of a tasty treat, try using a squeaky dog toy, game, praise or petting as a reward. When you have identified the best reward for your dog, keep it for training sessions only.
Consider randomising your rewards to keep your dog interested - different dog treats, toys and games can be hugely motivating for dogs and can help to prevent boredom.
With a little practice, clicker training can be a rewarding way for you to build the depth of your relationship with your dog by allowing you to communicate with him very clearly. You will be surprised the difference that it makes to your ability to train him to perform new commands and tricks.
In summary, clicker training is a simple yet powerful tool that helps you clearly communicate with your dog. By marking the exact moment your dog performs the desired behaviour and pairing it with a reward, you build understanding, confidence, and a stronger bond. With consistency and patience, this method can make learning fun and effective for both you and your dog.
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Thur Nov 13 2025
Edited by Dr Angie Armstrong BVScDr Teagan Lever BVSc (Hons)
Head Veterinarian, BVSc (Hons)
Pet Circle's Head Veterinarian, Dr Teagan graduated from the University of Queensland in 2010 and went on to work in small animal and mixed practice in various locations around QLD & ACT before joining Pet Circle in early 2016. Dr Teagan has special interests in dermatology, nutrition and preventative health care. She feels privileged to witness the special bond people share with their pets on a daily basis and enjoys forming lasting relationships with pet parents and their fur children.
