What is Marker Training?

Nearly every trainer would agree training animals would be easier if we could simply tell them what we wanted. As horse trainers, we have to find a way to translate our wants into a way that is engaging and understandable for them. Luckily for modern horse trainers, new science-based training methods are gaining mainstream attention with results that are akin to being able to communicate exactly what we want.

Effortless communication of the goal of many trainers

Marker training is a science-based technique of training that allows trainers to pinpoint exactly what they are asking their animals to do, cutting down on training time and confusion. While the method is most of seen in dog training it is slowly making its way onto the horse scene. Also referred to as clicker training, marker training can also be used with horses to cultivate effortless communication between horse and trainer.

What is a Marker?

Clickers make an effective marker

What sets marker training apart from other methods in the use of a marker. A marker allows the trainer to communicate with the animal exactly what behavior is correct. The marker is a clear, defined sound that allows the horse to pinpoint the right behavior. Many use a clicker, but a word (like "yes") or sound (like a whistle) can be just as effective.

A marker is given at the precise moment a behavior is performed. For instance, if training a trot command, the marker sound would be given the moment the horse breaks into a trot. The sound serves to "mark" the exact behavior you are looking for. After a clear marker, the horse will know you were rewarding the trot and not speeding up at the walk or stopping to get handed a treat.

Marker Training and Positive Reinforcement

Markers are used in conjunction with positive reinforcement, with a reward the marker becomes meaningless noise to the horse. A food reward is the most common reinforcement, but the horse can be given anything they really enjoy, like a scratch on the neck. For marker training to be effective the trainer has to be consistent and precise in when they give the marker and in proving the reward afterward in a timely manner.

Marker training allows you to pinpoint an exact moment as correct

Using a Marker

While marker training can seem like rocket science at first, it is actually quite simple. However, it does require accuracy and timing to work. Trainers have to have a clear image in their mind what the exact behavior they are trying to train and break it down into smaller steps that the horse can understand. The marker should come at the exact moment the behavior is executed with a reward following behind in short succession.

All you have to do is click the clicker, or give any other marker you are using, as soon as you see the horse perform the task to its desired criteria. Have a reward ready to give within about 3-5 seconds after the marker.

Getting Started

Before you can start marker training, you need to teach the horse what the marker means in a process called loading the clicker. This will involve giving the marker and immediately giving a reward over and over again until the horse understands the clicker means a reward is coming.

Learning how to effectively use marker training can take time to master, but it can be life-changing for trainers, giving them the chance to communicate with their horse like never before.