Teaching a Marker with a Clicker or Word

Communicating with your dog during training can sometimes feel like a guessing game. Does your dog really know what you’re asking for? That’s where a marker comes in—it’s a tool that lets you clearly tell your dog, “That’s it! That’s what I want!”

Whether you use a clicker or a verbal marker like “Yes!” or “Good!,” markers help bridge the gap between your dog’s behavior and the reward, making learning faster and more fun. Here’s how to teach your dog to understand exactly what you want them to do.

What Is a Marker and Why Is It Useful?

A marker is a signal that tells your dog, “That’s it—you got it right!” It bridges the gap between your dog’s behavior and the reward, so they know exactly which action earned the reward. This is especially helpful when you’re training new behaviors or working on precise timing.

You can use:

A clicker: A handheld device that makes a consistent, distinct, mechanical “click” sound.
A verbal marker: A clear, consistent word like “Yes!” or “Good!”

The key is to choose one and use it consistently during training.

Step 1: “Load the Marker”

Before using the marker during training, you need to teach your dog that the marker predicts a reward. This process is often called “loading the marker.”

Choose Your Marker"
Decide whether you’ll use a clicker or a marker word. If using a word, choose something short and distinct, like “Yes!”
Pair the Marker with a Reward
In a calm, distraction-free environment, press the clicker or say your marker word, then immediately follow it with a treat.

Example: Click → Treat.
Example: Say “Yes!” → Treat.

Repeat:
Practice this sequence 10–15 times in a row, ensuring there’s no delay between the marker and the treat. Your dog doesn’t need to do anything yet—this step is just about building the association.

Check for Understanding
After a few sessions, test your dog’s understanding by pressing the clicker or saying your marker word when they’re not paying attention. If they immediately look at you expecting a treat, they’ve made the connection!

Step 2: Use the Marker During Training

Now that your dog knows the marker predicts a reward, it’s time to use it during training sessions.

Wait for the Desired Behavior
For example, if you’re teaching “sit,” wait for your dog to place their bottom on the ground.
Mark the Behavior
The moment your dog performs the desired behavior, press the clicker or say your marker word. Timing is important here—the marker should happen as the behavior occurs, not after.

Reward ASAP
Follow the marker with a treat, toy, or praise—whatever motivates your dog most. The marker tells your dog what they did right, and the reward reinforces that behavior.

Step 3: Build Consistency

Practice using your marker in short, frequent training sessions. Stick to one behavior at a time, like “sit” or “touch,” to keep things simple for your dog. Over time, they’ll begin to understand the connection between the marker, their behavior, and the reward!

Tips for Success

Keep Sessions Short
A lot of dogs learn best in short bursts. Aim for 5–10 minutes per session to prevent boredom or frustration. You know your dog best.

Be Consistent
Always use the same marker (clicker or word) and follow it with a reward. Consistency helps your dog learn faster!
Avoid Double Marking
If you’re using a clicker, avoid saying “Yes!” at the same time. Stick to one marker to avoid confusing your dog.

When to Use a Marker

Markers are versatile and can be used in many training scenarios, such as:

Teaching basic obedience commands like “sit” or “down.”
Shaping new behaviors step by step.
Capturing spontaneous behaviors, like lying calmly on their own.
Reinforcing good choices in everyday life, like ignoring a trigger during a walk.

Why Markers Make Training Easier

Markers help you communicate with your dog in a way they clearly understand. Instead of wondering what earned them the treat, they’ll know exactly which action you’re rewarding. This clarity builds confidence, makes training more fun, and strengthens your bond with your dog.

Final Thoughts

Teaching your dog a marker is a simple but powerful way to improve your training. Whether you use a clicker or a marker word, this tool helps your dog understand exactly what you want and creates a foundation for effective communication.

If you’re ready to take your training to the next level or need help troubleshooting, I’d love to work with you! Book a consultation today, and let’s help your dog learn and thrive.

How to Teach Your Dog What You Want Them to Do