The clicker is used as a bridging signal. It tells the animal the instant it does the desired behavior. It is followed by a reward, usually food because it is the biggest motivator for most animals. Scratching, rubbing and praises also help. We all like positive reinforcement. Horses are much more willing to work when they receive a paycheck, just as we are.
Timing is very important when using the clicker. The animal will repeat the behavior it was doing when it got clicked, so it is important you click immediately when he does the behavior you want. Clicker training is based on positive reinforcement and shaping behavior in very small steps. The animal is very motivated by getting a reward. Punishment will slow progress greatly because the animal will be afraid to offer behaviors. Clicker training is about rewarding the behavior you want and ignoring the behavior you don't want.
Why do clicker training? It's fun! It's easy! Horses love it! People love it! It's effective! It's fast! It builds a great relationship between you and your horse! Anyone can do it! You can teach your horse anything with clicker training!
With clicker training you can teach your horse to:
- Come to the mounting block to pick you up
- Stand still for mounting
- Trailer load
- Whoa and stand still
- Back
- Turn on forehand and haunches
- Side pass
- Leg yield
- Lower head
- Work over obstacles, like jumps
- De-spooking
- Dancing
- Liberty fun
- Push and kick a ball
- Bow
- Lay Down
- Pick up objects
Anything you want!
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