Choose one marker and keep it the same
Dogs Trust describes a marker as a sound or signal that is instantly followed by a reward. The marker only gains meaning because the reward reliably follows it.
- Pick one: a clicker, a short word your pet is unlikely to hear at other times, or a clear hand signal such as a thumbs up. A visual signal can suit a pet who does not hear well.
- Keep the word, tone and volume the same every time. Say a spoken marker calmly; an excited voice can distract.
- If the click startles your pet, stop. Battersea suggests muffling the clicker in a pocket or switching to a marker word. Cats Protection advises keeping the click far enough away that it is heard but does not startle.
Run the first session
This first session teaches one thing: the marker predicts a reward. There is no trick or position to learn yet.
- Choose a quiet place when your pet is calm, and have a few small rewards ready that are quick to eat.
- Mark once, then give a reward straight away. Battersea recommends rewarding within three seconds of the click.
- Pause, then repeat several times. Always follow the marker with a reward, even if your timing felt off.
- Stop while your pet is still interested. A short session that ends well is more useful than a long one.
Read what happened
On a later occasion, watch how your pet responds to the marker before you start teaching behaviors.
Looks toward you or the reward after the marker
The pairing is starting to work. Dogs Trust says this expectation is the point to begin marking behaviors you want.
Startles, freezes or moves away
End the session. Try a quieter marker another day, and do not keep clicking to get attention.
Loses interest quickly
Make the next session shorter, use a reward your pet values more, or try at a calmer time.
- Rewards are part of what your pet eats that day. Cats Protection suggests adjusting other food so total intake stays right.
- Progress varies. Cats Protection notes clicker training a cat can take from a few days to a few months. Never punish a mistake.
FAQ
Do I need a clicker?
No. A consistent word or hand signal works as a marker. A clicker gives a very consistent sound, which some people find easier to keep the same.
Does this work for cats?
Yes, the same pairing principle applies. Keep sessions very short, use a quiet marker, and let your cat choose to join in or leave.
When do I start teaching a behavior?
Once your pet calmly expects a reward after the marker. Then mark the moment they do something you want, such as touching a target or sitting, and reward straight away.
Sources
NutriPet editorial reviewEvidence library
- How to introduce a marker to your dog trainingDogs Trust
- Basics of clicker trainingBattersea
- How to clicker train a catCats Protection
Practise with a guided session
NutriPet includes a short guided Meet the marker practice for dogs and cats, using a clicker sound or your own spoken or physical marker. Training practice requires a NutriPet Pro subscription.