October 2025 – Looking Back on Indication in Training for Detection Dogs (RT)

Topic: Reducing Handler Focus / Increasing Odor Commitment
Objective: Build independence, confidence, and odor fixation in the dog while shaping better handler awareness and timing.

Primer: What is a Marker (Conditioned Reinforcer)?
A marker (conditioned reinforcer) is a consistent signal (like a clicker or a verbal cue such as ‘Yes!’) that precisely marks the instant your dog performs the desired behavior (e.g., nose committed to odor) and predicts a reward. It clarifies communication by separating the behavior from the delivery of reinforcement, especially when timing or distance are factors.

Why it matters: Many dogs look at their handler for confirmation. Markers provide that confirmation cleanly without handler movement or voice tone changes.