What is a Marker Word?
This is a word that signals to your dog that they have done a good job in what has been asked of them, and a reward is on it's way to them. Examples of a marker word can be 'yes' or 'good', this can also be a clicker.
Why do I Need to Use a Marker Word?
This is giving clear communication to our dogs that what they have done is right. This is important as it is adding positive value to what you are asking of your dog, which will motivatre them to continue this good behaviour in the future, also increasing their motivation to work with you in training in the future.
Keep it Short & Quick
Try not to use any words like your dogs name or 'good boy/girl' or any words that you have used a lot in the past. We want to keep our marker words quick and immediate, to make it really clear to our dog that they have done a good job.
How to Teach your Dog a Marker Word
Start with something easy that your dog knows really well such as 'sit', ask your dog to sit, as soon as they do so say 'yes' or 'good', or using the clicker, and give them a treat immidiately after saying it. Repeat this a few times until your dog is recognisning the marker word. Following this, anytime you ask something of your dog, when they do this well make sure to say your marker word at the exact moment they do it correctly.
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Thank you for reading! x
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