The clicker is a positive reinforcement tool used during training to teach a new behaviour, and to improve criteria. Once the behaviour has been learnt the clicker is faded out. Clicker training is optional, a word to mark the desired behaviour could also be used instead of the clicker. The desired learning objectives for the control exercises are:

 

Week 1

• Introduction to clicker training.

• Attention, to look at and focus on you to establish a communication channel.

• 'Recall'.

• 'Sit’.

 

Week 2

• 'Stay/Release'

• 'Down’.

• 'Find it'

• Information on the importance of socialisation and habituation.

• 'Bite inhibition'.

 

Week 3

• 'Stay' and 'release' from stay positions

• Information on preventing and modifying jumping up behaviour.

• 'Rollover'

 

Week 4

• 'Leave it'

• Information on preventing and resolving chewing of forbidden items.

 

Week 5

• 'Recall'

• Information on preventing and resolving unwanted digging.

 

Week 6

• Leash walking

• Resolving excessive barking.

 

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