Marker Words in Dog Training

What is a Marker Word?

A marker word is a short, consistent verbal signal that tells your dog the exact moment they’ve done something you like. It acts like a camera “click” that captures the behavior you want to reinforce. Common examples of marker words include “Yes!” or “Click!” (if using a clicker).

The marker word bridges the time between the behavior and the reward, helping the dog understand clearly what earned them praise or treats.


How to Teach a Marker Word

Teaching a marker word is simple and can be done in a few easy steps:

  1. Choose Your Marker: Pick a word you will always use. Keep it short, happy, and consistent (e.g., “Yes!”).
  2. Pair the Word with a Reward:
    • Say your marker word (“Yes!”).
    • Immediately deliver a treat.
    • Repeat about 10–15 times in short sessions.
    • Treats should not be in your hand.  Have it in your treat pouch or in a separate container.  We want to the dog to associate the marker with a treat being delivered and if they see a treat in your hand it can impact that association.

The dog does not have to do anything yet. You’re simply building the association: marker word = treat is coming.

  1. Start Using It with Behaviors:
    • Ask your dog for a simple behavior they already know (like “Sit”).
    • The moment their butt hits the ground, say “Yes!” and then give a treat.

Consistency is key. Always follow your marker word with a reward when you are first teaching it.

  1. Generalize the Marker:
    • Prime the marker is a variety of different environment (not just inside your house in ideal circumstances)

Video Example of Teaching a Marker Word:


Benefits of Using a Marker Word

  • Clear communication: Your dog knows exactly which behavior you liked.
  • Speeds up learning: Dogs can link their action to the reward much faster.
  • Precise timing: You can “mark” even when you can’t deliver a treat immediately.
  • Flexible and practical: You can use it anywhere, even when a clicker isn’t handy.
  • Strengthens your bond: Dogs love understanding you and being rewarded for it!

Examples Using a Marker Word

  • Marker = Dog performed a desired behavior or met the current criteria of a skill you are training.
  • Your dog looks at you during a walk: “Yes!” → treat.
  • Your dog sits politely instead of jumping: “Yes!” → treat.
  • Your dog comes when called: “Yes!” (as soon as they start running toward you) → treat.
  • Your dog leaves a piece of food on the ground after a “Leave it” cue: “Yes!” → treat.

Common Misuses of a Marker Word

  • Saying the marker too late: If you mark even a second after the behavior, your dog may link it to something else.
  • Marking the delivery of the treat and not the behavior: It is very common for people to say “Yes” as they give the treat instead of using it to mark the instant the behavior is performed.
  • Not following up with a reward: Especially early on, the marker must be followed by a treat or reinforcement every time.
  • Using different marker words randomly: Switching words confuses the dog. Pick one and stick to it.
  • Using it as praise: A marker is a technical tool, not just verbal praise. “Good boy!” can be praise, but “Yes!” as a marker is specific and must predict a reward.
  • Marking incorrect behaviors: Accidentally saying “Yes!” when the dog is doing the wrong thing can strengthen unwanted actions.