training & behaviour
The way we feed our pets can also support their behavioural wellbeing by encouraging them to express their natural instincts.
Our understanding of how pets learn has evolved significantly over the past few decades. While training once focused on correcting unwanted behaviours, behavioural science now shows that dogs and cats learn most effectively when they feel safe, motivated and engaged.
Learning through rewards
Positive reinforcement works by rewarding behaviours you want your pet to repeat. Whether the reward is food, praise, play or affection, pets learn to associate a behaviour with a positive outcome, making them more likely to repeat it. In contrast, fear and stress can interfere with learning, making it more difficult for pets to concentrate and retain new information. Supporting behavioural wellbeing means creating positive experiences that build confidence and encourage natural behaviours.
Why food is a great motivator
Food is one of the most effective positive reinforcers as it fulfils a basic biological need and provides immediate feedback during training. However, food can do more than reward good behaviour. The way we feed our pets can also support their behavioural wellbeing by encouraging them to express their natural instincts.
Mealtimes into enrichment
Feeding enrichment encourages dogs and cats to sniff, forage, lick and problemsolve instead of simply eating. These activities provide valuable mental stimulation, help reduce boredom and stress, and allow pets to engage in behaviours they are naturally motivated to perform. Regular enrichment complements positive reinforcement by keeping pets mentally stimulated and making everyday experiences more rewarding.
Simple activities such as scatter-feeding kibble, using snuffle mats or puzzle feeders, hiding food around the house, or offering wet food on a lick mat can transform mealtimes into enriching experiences. Rotating enrichment activities and gradually increasing the level of challenge helps keep pets engaged while avoiding frustration.
Using food during training
Here, moderation is important. Rather than offering additional treats, owners can use part of their pet’ s daily food allowance for training and enrichment. If treats are given, they should make up no more than 10 % of a pet’ s daily food intake, while regular body condition assessments help ensure a healthy weight is maintained.
Positive reinforcement is about far more than teaching obedience. Combined with complete and balanced nutrition and appropriate enrichment, it supports behavioural wellbeing, encourages natural behaviours and helps strengthen the bond between pets and the people who care for them. www. petpals. co. za 43