How different animal species learn

How different animal species learn

Amy Curran, Dip. Animal Psychology, Certified ATA Assessor

Each species of animal possess distinct learning styles shaped by their evolutionary history, natural behaviours, and cognitive abilities. As a result they are quite different in how they learn and respond to information. This is a topic I could chat about all day, but for the purposes of this blog post I'll endeavour to summarise so I don't lose you!

The first aspect to keep in mind when planning a training pathway is whether the species is categorised as a predator or prey. A predator is defined as an animal that hunts and kills for food, prey is what the predator hunts. How do you think this affects their training? In general terms predators are confident and bold, and prey animals may be cautious with a flight response.

The second is whether they are a social learner or an independent learner. A social learner is an animal that learns through observation, watching interactions between the handler and other animals. Independent learners are not motivated by what other animals are doing.

While I aknowledge that every animal is an individual, and there are animals that may go between their stereotypical traits, knowing these two factors above will help you to understand the core instincts and learning style of the animal as you get to know them as an individual.

Tablerock Sheeza Heartbreaker, bred and shown by Amy pictured winning at the Sydney Royal Easter Show

Dogs:

• Predators: Dogs are considered predators. The prey drive of a dog often translates into their motivation to perform.

• Social Learners: Dogs are highly social animals that learn through observation, interaction, and communication with humans and other dogs. They often seek approval from their human companions and thrive on positive reinforcement.

• Response to Rewards: Dogs respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, or play. They are motivated to repeat behaviors that result in rewards and can quickly associate actions with consequences.

• Pack Mentality: Dogs have a hierarchical social structure resembling a pack, which influences their learning preferences. They may look to their owners as leaders and respond positively to structured training routines.

• Versatile Learning: Dogs can learn through visual cues (hand signals, gestures), verbal cues (commands), and physical cues (body language), making them adaptable to various training methods.

Australian Stock Horse Colt Kallenia Valentino II HSH and Amy at the Goulburn AP&H Show

Horses:

• Prey Animals: Horses are prey animals with a flight response, which can make them initially cautious and sensitive to their surroundings. Building trust and establishing a respectful relationship is essential in horse training.

• Social Learners: Like dogs, horses are highly social animals that learn through observation, interaction, and communication with humans and other animals.

• Body Language: Horses are highly attuned to body language, both from humans and other horses. They can pick up subtle cues and signals, making non-verbal communication vital in training.

• Operant Conditioning: Horses learn through operant conditioning, associating behaviors with consequences (rewards or corrections). Positive reinforcement techniques, such as clicker training or food rewards, are effective.

• Consistency and Timing: Consistency and precise timing of cues are crucial in horse training to ensure clear communication and avoid confusion. Horses benefit from patient, gentle handling and consistent routines.

Fairwind Black Opal, Norwegian Forest Cat owned and trained by Amy

Cats:

• Predators: Cats are perfectly evolved ambush predators. They can lengthen their spines to allow for bursts of speed, narrow their shoulders and chest to squeeze into tiny spaces, jump many times their height from a standing position, and land on their feet almost every time they fall.

• Independent Learners: Cats are independent animals with a strong sense of curiousity. They may learn at their own pace and may be less motivated by pleasing humans compared to dogs.

• Inquisitive Instincts: Cats are naturally curious and enjoy exploring their environment. Training methods that engage their hunting instincts, such as interactive play or food puzzles, can be effective.

• Respect for Boundaries: Cats have a strong sense of territory and may resist training methods that feel intrusive or restrictive. They respond well to training that respects their boundaries and preferences.

• Preference for Play: Cats often respond well to training sessions that are incorporated into playtime. Toys or treats can be used to reinforce desired behaviors.

Rabbits:

• Prey Animals: Rabbits are prey animals with a cautious nature. They may initially be fearful in new environments or situations, requiring a gentle and patient approach to training.

• Social Learners: Rabbits live in groups and the young rabbits learn from the older ones in order to eat grass and find their burrows.

• Food Motivation: Rabbits are motivated by food and can be trained using treats as positive reinforcement. However, they may have individual preferences for certain types of food.

• Environmental Enrichment: Training rabbits can involve environmental enrichment activities, such as agility courses or puzzle toys, to stimulate their minds and bodies. Rabbits benefit from a variety of activities that encourage exploration and play.

Birds:

• Prey Animals: With the exception of birds of prey (eagles, owls) most domesticated birds are prey animals.

• Social Learners: Many bird species are social animals that learn from observing and interacting with other birds, as well as humans. They may mimic sounds and behaviors they observe in their environment.

• Highly Intelligent: Birds, particularly species like parrots, are highly intelligent and capable of complex learning. They have excellent problem-solving abilities and can learn a wide range of behaviours.

• Imitative Learning: Birds excel at imitating sounds and actions, making them adept at learning through imitation. They can be trained to perform various tricks and behaviors through repetition and positive reinforcement.

Training your animal, no matter what the species is the best thing you can do for them. I once heard a saying "the cruelest thing you can do to your dog is to not train it", it is so true for dogs as well as other species. I often see unhandled horses for sale, and I worry about where they end up. Teaching any animal the basics of human interaction is a must.

Training sessions also provide an opportunity for bonding between the animal and their owners, strengthening their relationship and providing mental stimulation for both! Consistent training routines maintain engagement and progress.

Undertaking a training title with the Animal Talent Academy is the perfect place to start. There are lists of tasks you can choose from for each level title, taking the guesswork out of your training and leaving lots of time for enjoyment. A little warning though, once you have experienced the bond that comes with achieving a title with your animal, you'll be addicted!