Clicker Training Prepares Your Dog for a Great Summer Vacation With You

Planning a family vacation but not sure if your dog is ready? Even if you have trained your dog at home in four of the basic obedience skills – come, sit, stay, down – he may not react the same to your commands in strange places or with distractions. You’ll want to practice clicker training these important behaviors in other locations: in the yard, on the sidewalk along a busy street, in a car, in a noisy park, and in pet-friendly restaurants and stores. Clicker training in new environments will help your dog feel more confident in unfamiliar situations.

To keep your dog safe in strange places, use clicker training to teach him to come when called. If he is unleashed and gets confused in a new environment, he could freak out and start running away, possibly into dangerous areas. You’ll also want to use clicker training to teach your dog to settle in his bed or crate, so he’ll be comfortable in a restaurant, your cabin, or grandma’s house. And grandma will enjoy having him!

If this is your dog’s first vacation away from home, or if your dog has just recently learned the basic behaviors with clicker training, plan to continue clicker training while you’re gone. Be sure to pack clickers and a treat bag with a good supply of clicker training treats. Prepare your dog in advance with clicker training so everyone can have a fun and safe vacation.