Personally, I'm a big fan of clicker training. It isn't as if they can't learn without the clicker, but I think they learn faster and more reliably with clicker training. The thing I really like about the clicker is that your timing is better with the clicker. So many people fiddle for so long with the treat, that by the time the reward comes, the dog is confused as to what he/she is being rewarded for. The clicker is also consistent from person to person, sound to sound and prevents confusion to the dog.

The clicker is GREAT for shaping behaviors and tricks. You can put the clicker on a lanyard that you can wear around your neck or clip it on your treat bag.

Just my 2 cents.