I don't think so, but I'm not an expert. I just started a class with Gretchen last night that's teaching clicker training. I'm hoping it will be the 'missing link' I've been looking for to bolster her reliability to my commands. Right before you started this thread, I was out looking at some clicker-related links and came across this tidbit: "...it is possible to train reliable companion, competition, and working animals using a combination of R+, extinction, and (to a far lesser extent) P-. We subscribe to this premise, which is continually proven in practice: Animals learn best when their own capabilities are encouraged and directed into behaviors that help them live well with humans. We set up the animals to succeed, and then reward them for their successes."
Here's the
link and here's a legend of what R+, extinction, and P- means (NOTE: I've seen other members explain the different training methods using similar methodology, but thought it never hurts to share it again):
What are R+, R-, P+, P-, and extinction?
You'll see these abbreviations pop up on the list fairly often. They are abbreviations for terms used in Operant Conditioning. They stand for:
Positive reinforcement (R+): something is added to increase the occurrence of a behavior. For example, you give the dog a treat to reinforce the sit.
Negative reinforcement (R-): something is removed to increase the occurrence of a behavior. For example, in the forced retrieve (not a clicker technique), a dog's ear is pinched to force him to open his mouth to take the dumbbell. When the dog opens his mouth -- the desired behavior -- the ear pinch is released.
Positive punishment (P+): something is added to decrease the occurrence of a behavior. For example, a collar pop is applied (not a clicker training technique) to discourage a dog from pulling on the lead.
Negative punishment (P-): something is removed to decrease the occurrence of a behavior. For example, turning away (removing attention) from a dog who is jumping up on you.
Extinction: weakening of behavior through lack of reinforcement. For example, your dog is learning what the cue "sit" means. You reinforce sits after cue, but ignore -- do not reinforce -- any other behavior. Other behaviors become less likely due to lack of reinforcement.