[NAGDU] Treats VS. clicker training

[Ann Edie]

You can still use clicker training even without having a free hand to click
the mechanical clicker. If the dog has been introduced to the clicker during
its training, then you can use a tongue click instead of the mechanical
clicker while working the dog. Also, once the dog is familiar with clicker
training, you don't have to worry quite so much about getting the treat to
it within 3 seconds. When you are teaching a new task, then the precision of
the click and the prompt delivery of the treat are important information for
the dog so that it associates the exact behavior you are wanting with the
"yes" signal and the reward.

Ann

-----Original Message-----
From: NAGDU [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Julie Johnson via
NAGDU
Sent: Tuesday, June 20, 2017 6:39 AM
To: Miranda via NAGDU
Cc: Julie Johnson
Subject: Re: [NAGDU] Treats VS. clicker training

Clicker training almost always involves treats.  It is possible to use
clicker training without, but practically no one does.  The treats are fast
and 99% of dogs respond.

So all the clicker does is to give a precise marker signal to the dog that
yes, that is exactly what I want.  It marks a very specific moment in time
and space as the precise thing I am rewarding.  Then the click is followed
by a treat, typically food.  The treat needs to be delivered in 1 to 3
seconds ideally.

treat training  is used about the same minus the clicker.  They will
reinforce at the same level, but they don't have the precision.  That's okay
if you don't want a high level of precision or are trying to make general
associations.

The clicker does require that you have a free hand or other means to press
it at the right moment.  You can attach it to the guide handle or with some
styles put it in your pocket and press the button with the palm of your
hand.  Still it is something to carry around.  Also with clicker you need to
be really aware of what your dog is doing and click at the correct time.

The long and short is that clicker training is more precise and faster to
teach new things, but does require a higher level of knowledge.  Once you
get the hang of it, it's easy, but you will likely need to work at getting
the clicking at the right time and then following up quickly with a treat in
the beginning.

Treat training without clicker does work, but will likely need more
repetitions in order for the dog to fully understand what, exactly, is being
rewarded. Almost anyone can use this method with little practice.

Julie
http://www.guide-and-service-dogs.com

On 6/20/2017 5:35 AM, Miranda via NAGDU wrote:
> Hi everyone,
> As I research guide dog schools, I am wondering about the pros and cons of
positive reinforcements with treats versus clicker training. Any insight
would be very much appreciated.
> Thanks as always for your time and assistance, and have a wonderful week!
>
> Best wishes, Miranda
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
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