How to teach your dog to understand a marker word
A marker word tells your dog the exact moment they got it right. It's the foundation every other command is built on.
By Pawfessor Editorial TeamUpdated
- LevelEasy
- Practice timeAbout 20 min in total, over short sessions
- Reps per session10–15
- You needTreats
A marker tells your dog the exact moment they got it right. Charge it once and every other skill gets faster. Prefer a clicker? See clicker training.
Before you start
- A quiet room with no distractions
- Small, soft treats they love (or their own food)
- Pick one short word: "Yes!" (or use the clicker)
Step by step
- Say "Yes" and give a treat within a second
Frequently asked questions
What word should I use?
Something short you don't say all the time, like Yes or Good. Use the same word every time.
Is a clicker better than a word?
A clicker is more precise; a word is always with you. Both work. See our clicker training guide.
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