Here is a summary of some of the points we have covered in this section.   If you would like to learn more  go to our clicker training resources page...

No clicker trained gundog has yet achieved a top field title in either the UK or the US.  If you are training a hunting/shooting companion, or just looking to have some fun working your way through our graded training scheme,  don't let this put you off.  If however you are aiming for field trials,  this fact needs to be borne in mind.

Clicker training is based on sound scientific principles. Don't let anyone tell you that clicker training doesn't work.  It does.   However,  like any other skill,  it takes time to become an expert.   If you really want to have a go,  read as much as you can and make use of the resources on this page...

You can mix clicker training with traditional methods.   Don't be put off by 'purists'  from either the traditional gundog or the clicker training camps.  Clicker training is a science, not a religion.  Just be careful not to diminish it's effects by using corrections in a clicker training session,  or by using different methods to teach the same skill.  You will confuse the dog.  Decide which behaviour you are training,  whether it be a sit,  a recall,  heel etc.  Pick your method,  and stick to it until the behaviour is established. 

Clicker work is ideally suited to the 'yard' or 'indoors'  Don't be afraid to introduce corrections when you move on to fieldwork - if you need to.  Appropriate corrections will not devastate your dog, or make him afraid to try new things - a claim you sometimes hear from clicker trainers.   Each dog is different.   Keep your corrections in proportion  -  a clicker trained dog will often need only the mildest correction, a sharp verbal 'ah-ah' or a growly 'nooo' may be quite sufficient.  Often a correction will simply mean  silently replacing the dog in the required position  -  known as re-seating.  True clicker trainers do not do this.    Watch your dog and ensure he remains confident and happy overall

Clicker work is great for puppies.   Do consider clicker training if you are desperate to train your tiny puppy.  Serious traditional training methods are for grown dogs.  Little puppies need to have fun.

Next  -  still interested?  Click here for clicker training resources