Hello! I'm pretty new here, just been browsing some videos on Leerburg's YouTube but haven't had time to do extensive research. I was wondering if anyone would be willing to discuss the differences between marker and clicker training methods?

Pretty much one and the same.

Clicker training usually refers to using only a clicker to mark a behavior while those that use a particular word (many use the word yes) would be more apt to be called marker training.

There are also many that call both marker training and clicker training as marker training.

Many here, including myself will and have used both but for beginners it's suggested to stick with one or the other.

Simple huh!

Bob pretty much summed it up. The concept is the same for both.

Some added considerations for clicker vs voice might center around convenience or practicality. I've preferred using my voice ("yes") as my marker because I don't want to fumble with a clicker while I'm holding a leash and dispensing treats to reward the marker. For me, it's just less awkward. Also, if you are working with your dog close to others working with theirs, my dog can pick out my voice. She might not be able to distinguish a clicker I would be using if others are also using clickers nearby.

Otherwise, it's great to see you considering the use of marker training in either form. You'll be happy with the results. Good luck!

I built an entire vocabulary for my marker training. I am not sure how I would communicate some of the things that I do with a clicker. My dog's vocabulary has expanded and is now pretty big. We have our own language and we are always on the same page.

When I first started developing my marker system, I was under the impression that all clicker training was marker training but not all marker training was clicker training.

Yes, clicker training is just one form of marker training. We can use our voice instead or produce a sound with our tongue or by snapping our fingers.

At first I started with a clicker. I used the click as terminal marker. What I loved about the clicker: I was sure to produce each time exactly the same sound, which is more difficult with a word. Our words can easily change the intonation according to our momentary emotions (enthusiasm, impatience, anger ...) But we can train ourselves to use it consistently in the same intonation.

I then changed to use a word. "Ok!" as terminal marker, "Bom!" as duration marker. I changed it for the same reason as Greg describes. I feel less akward with my voice. Especially since I reward with raw food which is a bit slippery. It made my hands and my clicker slippery too. Result: I lost the exact timing, which is so important for marker training.

Another advantage of the verbal marker: I've never forgotten to take my voice with me, I never lost it on road and it never happened that it all of a sudden didn't function any more. All this happened to me with clickers.

I'm convinced clicker training is a good thing. I'm still using it now and then at home, just to keep the dogs accustomed to it. But actually I do prefer my voice.

Thank you for the info everyone! I have used clicker training methods for the past few years with my horses and dogs. I feel like the details of marker training are exactly what I've been trying to do and illustrate the reasons I don't usually get along with other "clicker trainers". Looking forward to practicing more

Rachel, I believe that many "clicker" trainers seem to think that a correction is taboo.

The DVDs found here with Mike Ellis and Leerburgs marker training videos are top shelf and explain when and why corrections are needed.

Cindy, here on Leeberg has also worked successfully with horses.

I agree, many clicker trainers think that any form of correction is a terrible cruelty! It can be very frustrating to talk about training techniques with them

I put a number of titles on my now passed GSD with no physical corrections but he was a very special dog and I've been training since the 1950s.

I highly recommend marker training to everyone but they need to understand theirs and their dog's limits regardless of method.

To take corrections out of your "training toolbox" can be a huge mistake.

That's why I like the Ellis DVDs so much.

Just saw this reply - I think the DVDs are going to be on my Christmas wishlist this year Thanks!