Word-Marker Training vs. Clicker Training: What's the Difference?

I get asked this a lot when during dog training lessons: do I need a clicker, or can I just say yes? The honest answer is that you can say yes or use a clicker. But, there is a big difference in how each one works. The word yes is a marker and the clicker is a marker. They both do the same thing but, one is much quicker and easier for your dog to understand. And that is the clicker. Read below on how we break down each marker and the benefits of both.

What a marker does

A marker is a signal that means 'that exact thing you just did, that's what I'm paying for.' It bridges the gap between the moment your dog gets it right and the moment the treat arrives. Without it, your dog is guessing what earned the reward.

The clicker

• It's precise. The click is short and sharp, so it's great for catching quick moments like a head turn.

• It sounds the same every time, no matter your mood. Dogs love that consistency.

• It's great for shaping new behaviors and for dogs who tune out your voice.

• The downside: you need a free hand, and you won't always have it on you.

Verbal markers

• You always have your voice. No equipment, no fumbling.

• Your hands are free for the leash, the door, or your coffee.

• You can use more than one word to mean different things, like one word that means 'come get your treat' and another that means 'keep going.'

• The downside: it takes your dog 5 seconds to process a word marker in the beginning and this can slow things down dramatically and even bring the training to a halt.

Which should you use?

Ask yourself this Wouldn't you want to use the marker that is the fastest to communicate to your dog? That is the clicker. We always start off using the clicker then we switch over to a word marker. I use a clicker when I'm teaching something brand new and need pinpoint timing. I use a verbal marker with a dog that has already learned the behavior and it is on cue. After that it is the word marker for each behavior that is on cue. Good rule of thumb, condition them both. I condition a few words like that just to have that communication with my dog.

The one rule: a marker always means a reward is coming. Every time. If you mark and don't pay, the marker loses its power. Learn how to use a marker in the training plan I linked below! If you want to learn from me in a private course, I offer 6 lesson and 8 lesson courses and I linked my intake form below.

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My Marker & Clicker Training plan shows you how to charge your marker, nail your timing, and use it to teach real-life skills.

Want me to walk you through it? Book a virtual or in-home session and we'll build a plan around your dog.