Marker Training
Learning marker training will help big time with these issues! I use “YES” as a marker. YES means you did the right thing, and some sort of reward is coming. There are two things you need to be focused on.
It’s YES, PAUSE, then..REWARD.
If you say yes as your hand is moving the dog just becomes more focused on hand (aka treat) movements.
Marker training is a clear and effective communication system used in dog training to tell a dog the exact moment they did something right. The marker bridges the gap between the behavior and the reward, helping the dog understand precisely which action earned reinforcement. Without a marker, dogs are often left guessing, which slows learning and creates confusion.
At its core, a marker is simply a consistent sound or word that means, “That behavior is correct.” Traditionally, many trainers use a clicker, but verbal markers work just as well—and in many real-world situations, they work better.
In my training, I use verbal markers like “YES” or “GOOD” instead of a clicker, and there are several important reasons for this choice.
First, verbal markers are always available. You don’t need to remember a tool, hold something in your hand, or worry about dropping it. Your voice is with you at all times, whether you’re walking your dog, answering the door, or handling an unexpected situation. This makes marker training practical and reliable in everyday life, not just during structured training sessions.
Second, verbal markers are more natural and transferable for owners. Most people are already comfortable using their voice with their dog. Teaching someone to say “YES” or “GOOD” at the correct moment is far easier than teaching timing with a mechanical device. This increases consistency, which is far more important than the type of marker used.
Third, verbal markers allow for tone and flexibility. While the marker word itself should always sound the same and remain neutral, your voice gives you more control in real-world environments. For example, a calm “GOOD” can reinforce sustained behavior like holding a down-stay, while a sharp, upbeat “YES” can mark a quick, precise action like eye contact or a clean sit.
The way marker training works is simple. When the dog performs the desired behavior, the marker word is given immediately—within a fraction of a second—followed by a reward. Over time, the dog learns that the marker predicts something positive, such as food, praise, or play. Eventually, the marker itself becomes reinforcing because it provides clarity and feedback.
Using “YES” or “GOOD” helps dogs learn faster and with less frustration. The dog no longer has to guess which part of the behavior was correct. This is especially important when teaching complex skills like leash manners, recall, or impulse control. Clear markers reduce anxiety and increase confidence because the dog understands exactly what earns reinforcement.
Another advantage of verbal markers is how well they integrate into leash training and real-world obedience. During a walk, timing is everything. When a dog chooses not to pull, offers focus, or responds to a cue, a quick “YES” immediately communicates success without interrupting movement or control of the leash.
It’s also important to understand that marker training is not bribery. The marker does not mean “reward is coming no matter what.” It means the dog earned reinforcement for a specific behavior. This distinction helps build reliability and prevents dogs from becoming treat-dependent.
In summary, marker training is about precision, clarity, and communication. Whether using a clicker or a word, the goal is the same: tell the dog exactly when they got it right. By using verbal markers like “YES” and “GOOD,” training becomes more practical, accessible, and effective for real-life situations. When used consistently, marker training creates confident dogs that understand expectations and enjoy learning.