Title: How to Teach Your Golden Retriever Basic Commands with clicker training
Introduction:
Clicker training is a special way to teach your Golden Retriever basic commands. It helps you communicate with your dog and make a strong connection. In this article, we will learn different clicker training techniques to teach commands like sit, stay, and come.
1. Clicker Training Basics:
1.1 Understanding the Clicker:
The clicker makes a sound to tell your dog they did something right. It’s like giving them a gold star! After the click, you give them a reward, like a treat or a nice word, to show that they did a good job.
1.2 Choosing the Right Treats:
Using yummy treats during clicker training makes it more fun! Find treats that are small, easy to eat, and delicious. Try different treats to find out which ones your Golden Retriever likes the most.
2. Teaching Sit Command:
2.1 Luring Technique:
Hold a treat just above your dog’s nose, and slowly move your hand up. Their bottom will go down as their head goes up. When their bottom touches the ground, click and give them a treat to say they did a great job!
2.2 Capturing Technique:
Sometimes, your dog will sit on their own. When that happens, click and give them a treat. They will learn that sitting makes you happy!
3. Teaching Stay Command:
3.1 The Starting Point:
First, tell your dog to sit. Then, say “Stay” and take a small step back. If your dog stays put, click and give them a treat. Keep making it a little harder each time, and reward them when they stay.
3.2 Release Command:
Teach your dog a special word like “Free!” or “Okay!” to let them know they can move. This helps them understand when they should stay and when it’s safe to go.
4. Teaching Come Command:
4.1 Recall Training:
Go to a quiet place without distractions. Use the clicker and treats to call your dog’s name and say “Come!” When they come to you, click and give them a big reward. Practice this command in different places to make it even better.
4.2 Building Distance and Duration:
When your dog comes to you reliably, try calling them from a little further away. Keep rewarding them every time they come, no matter how far.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: What if my Golden Retriever doesn’t listen to the clicker?
A: Don’t worry! Your dog might not like the treats you’re using or might not understand the clicker yet. Try different treats and spend more time showing them that the clicker means something good.
Q2: Can clicker training work for older dogs?
A: Definitely! Clicker training is great for dogs of any age. Older dogs might need more patience and practice to learn new things, but it’s still possible and fun for them!
References:
– Preece, V. (2020). Clicker training. Wellingborough, Northants: V. Preece.
– Stilwell, V. (2010). Train your dog positively. London: Collins.
