Marker Signals
All about marker signals -what, when and why to use them
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A marker signal tells the dog the precise behavior that earned a reward. They can even signal to your dog where to go to be rewarded.
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Markers not only signal your dog that a reward is coming, they give you time to reach into your pocket or treat back to grab a treat. Marker signals for the win!
A Marker Signal Primer
Watch this quick video by Fear Free Happy Homes for a review of marker signal basics.
Types of Marker Signals
CLICKER
Pros
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Precise & quick
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Unique, memorable sound
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Cons
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Extra thing to carry, you have to remember to bring it, some dogs sensitive to its sound
WORDS
Pros
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Always with you!
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Easy
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Cons
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Choose a word you don't use too often so that it doesn't lose its effectiveness - you can also use a common word in a very specific tone
VISUAL
Pros
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Always with you!
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Great for dogs with hearing challenges
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Cons
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Slower and less precise than a clicker or verbal marker
LOCATION SPECIFIC
Pros
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Verbal marker with added specificity for where the reinforcer can be collected
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Excellent for advanced marker users - let us show you how!
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Cons
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More marker words to remember
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