Foundations
Clicker Training Basics for Any Pet
How marker training works, how to charge a clicker and teach your first behaviours with dogs, cats, rabbits and parrots.
How a marker works
A click (or a word such as 'yes') marks the exact moment an animal does something right, and is always followed by a reward. The precision helps animals learn faster.
Charge the clicker
Click, then give a treat, 10–20 times over a few short sessions. When the animal looks up expectantly at the click, it understands.
First behaviours
- Nose target to your hand
- Sit or settle on a mat
- Come when called
- Step onto a scale or into a carrier
Tips
Keep sessions to a few minutes, use tiny rewards the animal loves, and end on success. Click once per behaviour and never use the clicker to get attention.
Further reading
Organisations whose published guidance covers this topic.
- Animal Behaviour and Training Council — standards for trainers and behaviourists
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- AVMA — American Veterinary Medical Association owner resources