Dog Training - Marker Training your dogs GPS

Sylvia Koczerzuk Koczerzuk Author

Apr 15, 2025 |

Learn how to use marker words in dog training to build confidence, clarity, and connection — without a clicker.

🎙️ SCRIPT: Understanding Marker Words – Your Dog’s GPS for Learning

"Dogs live in a world of pictures and associations. Marker words help us take a snapshot of the exact moment your dog gets something right — so they know it too."

Hi, I’m Sylvia, and today I want to introduce you to one of the most powerful tools in dog training — marker words, also known as bridging cues. Think of them as your dog’s GPS system. They help your dog know when they’ve arrived at the right behaviour — and that something good is coming their way.

I don’t use a clicker. Not because I dislike it — it’s simply not my go-to. I prefer to teach with my voice. It’s accessible, it's portable, and most importantly, your dog already listens to your voice every day. So why not harness that connection?

🎯 What is a Marker Word?

A marker word is a consistent verbal cue that marks the exact moment your dog does the behaviour you want — it bridges the gap between the behaviour and the reward.

Here’s a simple analogy:

Imagine you’re taking a photo. Your marker word is the shutter click — it captures the behaviour, and the reward is the photo getting printed.

🗣️ Types of Marker Words I Use:

I use a layered marker system — and you’ll get to know each one over time. Here are some examples:

• "Yes"/ "Nice" – This is a terminal marker. It means “You got it right — come get your reward!” Often used when the dog will move to you for the treat.

• "GGGGood" – A duration marker. It means “Keep doing what you’re doing; reward is coming.” Think of a dog lying calmly on a mat — we want to stretch that out.

•  "Get it" – Can be used to release the dog to go get a tossed treat, or acknowledge a behaviour that is ‘done’ but not needing precision.

• "Oops" – A gentle reset word. Not a punishment, just information: “That wasn’t quite it — let’s try again.”  I do not use this too much ....maybe more like is that where you are meant to be if they wander away or off their boundary.

• "Thank you" (not a marker but another way to acknowledge when you dog is not needing food rewards) – Can be used as a marker and or verbal reward.

⏱️ Timing is Everything

Your marker should come right as the behaviour happens, not after. You’re creating a bridge between: Behaviour → Marker → Reward

So if your dog sits, you say “Yes” as the bum hits the ground, not after you’ve fumbled for a treat.

🧩 Why Marker Words Beat Guessing Games

Dogs are excellent observers, but they’re not mind-readers. When we don’t provide a clear signal that they’ve done something right, they’re left to guess. Guessing often leads to frustration — and frustrated dogs check out, escalate, or give up.

Marker words eliminate the guesswork. Instead of offering a dozen behaviours to see what works, your dog gets immediate feedback. It’s like giving them a gold star in the exact moment they succeed — and that kind of clarity creates momentum in learning.

The result? Fewer repetitions, stronger behaviours, and a more joyful training relationship.

✅ Why This Works:

• It gives clarity: Your dog knows exactly what worked.

• It builds confidence: You’re speaking a language they can learn quickly.

• It reduces frustration: No more guessing games — dogs love clear feedback!

🚫 Common Mistakes:

• Using inconsistent words (saying “yup” one day, “yes” the next).

• Delayed timing — marking after the behaviour has passed.

• Using your marker as a cue (e.g., saying “yes” to get your dog to do something).

🧠 Let’s Practice

In our sessions, I’ll show you how to start with:

• One marker word (usually “Yes” or “Get it”)

• Pair it with food, play, or another reinforcer

• Repeat it in easy settings, like when your dog looks at you

Over time, we’ll layer in multiple marker words to grow your dog’s understanding and confidence.

🐾 Final Thought

Marker words are more than just training tools — they’re communication bridges. They help you become a better listener and observer of your dog. And they help your dog feel seen, successful, and safe.

📣 Ready to Try It?

Need help choosing the right markers or timing them in real-life situations like resource guarding, reactivity, or general manners? I’m here to help.
Book a discovery call with me at www.walkaboutcanineconsulting.org
Let’s create a communication system your dog actually understands.

Categories: : bridging cues, dog behaviour communication, dog training without clicker, force-free dog training, marker words dog training, positive reinforcement training, Sylvia Koczerzuk dog trainer, verbal marker cues