Quick clicker query?

When Dexter gives the desired behaviour, and I click and treat, do I also verbally praise...?


I know it's a really basic question, but I've only just started using the clicker and just want to double check.

Many thanks for any answers

Ideally the first few times you use the clicker with a new behaviour you don't say anything. When you have established the behaviour you want i then say yes at the same time as the click in order to phase out the clicker.
Others may say otherwise

Thanks so much

the whole point of operant conditioning with a clicker is that you do not say anything!

It is pointless!

The clicker is the secondary reinforcer it is the signal that
a) the dog was right
b) the behaviour is finished
c) it will be reinforced (with the primary reinforcer usually food)!

The clicker is used instead of the voice because it is unemotional and consistent (unlike us)!

That is what I thought - I just wanted to double check, as I said.

Thank you for your answer.

yes i agree BUT you do need to introduce a verbal reward at some point otherwise when you remove the clicker the dog wont realise its done it right

Once a dog is TRAINED the clicker is no longer needed, then, using variable reinforcement, you can pat, stroke, speak etc, but we the question was about operant conditioning with a clicker.

You can train using operant conditioning with a clicker word, body signal or light where appropriate.

Well you are not supposed to but I cant v often train in that clinical way
I talk to mine, adding the 'yes' at the same time and gibbering away about what an amazingly smart dog they are when I jackpot

I also talk nonsense when I am shaping, making my voice higher and higher as they get closer to what I am looking for, same when Im doing something longer like heeling - I chatter and tell them how proud I am

'good boy, what a clever boy, you are doing so great that is fantastic YES!' (click) - It does seem to help Ben hold positions like begging longer - It seems to give him confidence that he is on the right track and dosent need to try anthing else

I know its not correct - but I cant help it and it dosent seem to hinder us too much

also talk nonsense when I am shaping, making my voice higher and higher as they get closer to what I am looking for, same when Im doing something longer like heeling - I chatter and tell them how proud I am

Yes but that is known as a "bridging" cue...........

This is distinctly different to the actual "click" or YES!

They both have different uses..........