What is a Marker?
Let your dog know that reinforcement is on the way by using specific sounds! Teaching your dog that the word “yes” predicts a food reward is a foundational skill for training. You can also use a clicker, which is a plastic device that makes a distinct “click” sound. Teach your dog that every time they hear a “click”, they get a yummy treat! Once your dog understands what these markers mean, you’ll be able to communicate to them what exactly they did to earn a piece of food, leading to more of that behavior in the future. Marker training is the most efficient way to build lasting behaviors.
Once you’ve mastered your basic markers, expanding and creating new marks can provide more feedback to your dog. You can use different markers to indicate where exactly food is being delivered or how it’s being delivered to give more clarity. BlueDog instructors primarily use “Yes” or a click interchangeably, and the marker word “Good”.
What is the Difference Between “Good” and “Yes”/clicking?
“Yes” or a click:
- Typically used in the beginning of learning new skills
- Treat is delivered in optimized way for the specific behavior
- on the ground, to the dog, thrown, placed on a dot or in a bowl, etc.
- Can be more arousing
- Can signal the end of a behavior
“Good”:
- Calming, sustained behaviors
- The handler is always bringing the treat directly to the dog
- Ideally, it is going right to their mouth
- If not right to their mouth, the dog does not have to change position or move much to receive the reinforcement
- Duration behaviors where settling into a position is expected
“Yes”/clicks are most likely seen when we first teach new behaviors so the dog understands what they’re receiving reinforcement for. When you’re ready for your “sit” cue to be more functional and less of a party trick, you can use the marker “good”! This word is ideal to build in duration and distraction. This shift in marking can also help us eventually move towards less frequent treating, verbal praise, and overall reliable cues, whether or not we have treats with us.
What Can I Expect to Use As a BlueDog Class Student?
You’ll be introduced to clicker training at your first class, whether you join us in Puppy School or Elementary School! Your instructor will cover the basics, and explain how “Yes” can be used interchangeably with the click. Marker training is integrated into almost every skill we teach at BlueDog, so you’ll be exposed to this method in every class to build muscle memory. Expanding upon markers begins in Elementary School, and new markers like “Good” are used commonly in Middle School. Higher levels like High School and College encourage the use of markers as needed, while prioritizing randomized reinforcement for more reliable cues in the future.
“Yes” or Click?
Learning to use a clicker can sometimes feel like learning to use a new limb, so we totally understand where some handlers may be hesitant. We strongly believe the effort is well worth it! Using a clicker is the cleanest way to develop the best handling skills, timing, and communication for your training. The clicker is optimal because:
- It sounds the same every time! Consistency is key in training.
- If you’ve signed on to marker training, you’re telling your dog they get a treat every single time you mark. If you have your clicker on you, you probably have treats as well – meaning you’re more likely to stick to the terms of your contract!
- Novelty gives you a powerful advantage. The sound of a click is very distinct, and can cut through the noise in the real world where your voice may not.
- Don’t take this the wrong way, but you might talk to your dog too much. A clicker can cut through the fluff, and get to the point with your training. More understanding equals faster results!
However, there can be many reasons why a clicker is not the best choice for some handlers. “Yes” as a marker is perfectly suitable, and we’re always happy to accommodate any modifications as needed for our learners!
Are Different Marker Words Required for Good Training?
Clarity and consistency are the most powerful ways to be a predictable handler. Predictability is fundamental for all dog training! When you’re predictable to your dog, you can create safety and streamline communication to attain behavioral goals and learn new skills. Different marker words are different tools to help provide you with that predictability. Not every learner is going to have the same tool kit, so it’s not necessarily “required” for you to use different marker words. However, knowledge is power! More information for your dog may help you discover their needs and how to meet them in your training journey.