Developing a Conditioned Reinforcer

The clicker is what is known as a conditioned reinforcer (CR) or conditioned reward marker.  In and of itself it has no meaning, but when it is associated with an unconditioned reinforcer, which can be anything your dog naturally enjoys like food, play, petting, etc. it becomes reinforcing.  It is also known as a “bridging stimulus” because it bridges the gap between the behavior that earned your pup a reward and when you’re able to get that reward to your dog.  In effect, the click says “THAT! That right there is what I’m looking for and that is what earned you a reward!”

This can also be accomplished by using a verbal reward marker.  I typically use “good” or “yes” but you can use any word you please, so long as you’re consistent.  It’s important not to say your conditioned reward marker out of context often.  It’s not the end of the world if you occasionally use the word out of context, but if your dog hears it too often without it being paired with a primary reinforcer, it can lose its power.

To prime the CR have 20-30 very small, very tasty treats on hand.  This is quite possibly the simplest exercise you’ll ever do with your pup.  All you’re going to do is click and immediately toss a treat towards him.  It’s important that the primary reinforcer follow the CR within about a second in order for your dog to make the association.  Keep clicking and treating until your treat supply is almost gone.  Once you’re near the end of your supply, click and then wait a couple of beats before tossing the treat.  If your pup starts searching the ground for his treat as soon as he hears the click, you’ll know he’s made the connection.  If not, just do a few more repetitions and try again until he gets it. 

You’re not asking for any specific behavior in exchange for these clicks and treats, you’re just creating the association, but do avoid giving the CR if/when your pup is engaging in behaviors you don’t like, and don’t want to see more of, like whining, jumping, barking, etc.