How to introduce a marker to your dog training ↗
A consistent marker identifies the behaviour being rewarded and is followed by the reward.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Make a reward marker mean something clear
Public animal welfare advice used in Paw Training Lab. Short research notes are paired with links to the original pages; research notes link back to original advice. Photographs have their own credits and license records.
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A consistent marker identifies the behaviour being rewarded and is followed by the reward.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Make a reward marker mean something clear
Reward behaviour you want to see again; choose a reward the individual dog values.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Make a reward marker mean something clear, Build recall before you rely on distance
Build rewarded attention in quiet places; avoid repeatedly calling when the dog is not responding.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Teach a name as an invitation to turn towards you
Reward voluntary check-ins and make a new learning environment manageable.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Teach a name as an invitation to turn towards you
Reward returns and use a long line attached to a harness during outdoor practice.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Build recall before you rely on distance
Practise in quiet settings, reward proximity, and avoid jerking the lead.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Start loose-lead practice before the busy pavement
Choose a fit that allows movement; introduce the equipment and clips gently and inspect wear.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Start loose-lead practice before the busy pavement
Begin in a quiet place, reward relaxed behaviour, and introduce distractions gradually.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Reward the beginning of a relaxed settle
Provide a comfortable resting place, room to move, and appropriate objects for play and chewing.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Reward the beginning of a relaxed settle
Teach releasing through a fair exchange; teach leaving an item before the dog picks it up.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Teach leaving and releasing as different skills
Look for appropriately qualified support and reward-based methods when choosing training help.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Teach leaving and releasing as different skills