...a note about Positively Pigs
I was inspired to start this website as a way to begin a conversation between pig owners, rescuers, behaviorists and trainers about rethinking how we interact with our porcine companions; reconsidering old wisdoms; and how we can use the science of learning and our knowledge of pig behavior and natural history to develop a way forward using positive reinforcement and modern training methods that will lead to more successful relationships between pigs & people.
Dominance theory in dogs has been scientifically debunked for some time. Though it certainly persists as a training method in some circles, the science of learning tells us that it is very far from being the most effective method for training dogs. There has been no such revolution with regard to pig behavior and training, and dominance theory is essentially the only method pig owners currently have when they encounter a behavioral problem that they need to address. Whether the pig is lashing out due to fear, destroying the house or simply being a pig, pig owners are told these are all displays of the pig trying to 'become dominant' and therefore must be corrected by making the pig move, pushing the pig or some variation of a mock battle for dominance (that the owner MUST win!). Even more distressing is the VERY COMMON advice that you must begin pushing the pig BEFORE behavioral problems occur in order to stave off any dominance challenges - which in my opinion undoubtedly leads precisely TO problems. Keep in mind that positive punishment is defined as the addition of an aversive in order to REDUCE the occurrence of a behavior. If we introduce an aversive (pushing or moving the pig) while the pig is behaving acceptably, we are REDUCING the chance of that good behavior happening in the future! While there is little scientific research at this point to pinpoint causes of behavioral problems in pet pigs and more importantly, whether the alpha theory has any basis in fact as applied to pigs, there is significant research into the behavior of both domestic and wild pigs which can help us better understand the pet pig. Moreover, if we extrapolate out our general knowledge about how animals learn along with a close look at porcine natural history and behavior, we can start to develop an educated guess as to better possible training methods.
Having fostered many pigs over the years, I have become convinced that dominance theory, as applied to pigs, is not only often ineffective in communicating or solving behavioral problems, but depending upon the context it is used in, and skill of the owner, may possibly lead to an increase in aggression. The damage to the pig, and the feelings of failure of their families, is heartbreaking. I believe that we can, and must, do better at understanding the pig, and applying that knowledge in a way that builds a positive, happy relationship for the pig and his family.
This website will feature information about how we have succeeded with our own pigs, as well as a comprehensive look at current research into pig behavior and how that may be applicable to miniature pigs. I will also be posting information about the science of animal behavior, training basics, and any other pig-related information that might be of interest to you all. As a member of the Animal Behavior Society and a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, I am constantly working to learn more about animal behavior and how we can improve our relationships with our porcine companions. With a background in Zoology, I have worked with a myriad of animals – from scaly to feathery to furry – though I think there is nothing so extraordinary as the ordinary pig.
Please note that the content on this website is for informational purposes only. If you have a pet pig with behavioral problems, please contact a certified animal behaviorist or trainer.
There are many, many topics and specific concepts relating to pig behavior and dominance theory that I will be going over in detail as I add information to the site. Stay tuned for updates!
Dominance theory in dogs has been scientifically debunked for some time. Though it certainly persists as a training method in some circles, the science of learning tells us that it is very far from being the most effective method for training dogs. There has been no such revolution with regard to pig behavior and training, and dominance theory is essentially the only method pig owners currently have when they encounter a behavioral problem that they need to address. Whether the pig is lashing out due to fear, destroying the house or simply being a pig, pig owners are told these are all displays of the pig trying to 'become dominant' and therefore must be corrected by making the pig move, pushing the pig or some variation of a mock battle for dominance (that the owner MUST win!). Even more distressing is the VERY COMMON advice that you must begin pushing the pig BEFORE behavioral problems occur in order to stave off any dominance challenges - which in my opinion undoubtedly leads precisely TO problems. Keep in mind that positive punishment is defined as the addition of an aversive in order to REDUCE the occurrence of a behavior. If we introduce an aversive (pushing or moving the pig) while the pig is behaving acceptably, we are REDUCING the chance of that good behavior happening in the future! While there is little scientific research at this point to pinpoint causes of behavioral problems in pet pigs and more importantly, whether the alpha theory has any basis in fact as applied to pigs, there is significant research into the behavior of both domestic and wild pigs which can help us better understand the pet pig. Moreover, if we extrapolate out our general knowledge about how animals learn along with a close look at porcine natural history and behavior, we can start to develop an educated guess as to better possible training methods.
Having fostered many pigs over the years, I have become convinced that dominance theory, as applied to pigs, is not only often ineffective in communicating or solving behavioral problems, but depending upon the context it is used in, and skill of the owner, may possibly lead to an increase in aggression. The damage to the pig, and the feelings of failure of their families, is heartbreaking. I believe that we can, and must, do better at understanding the pig, and applying that knowledge in a way that builds a positive, happy relationship for the pig and his family.
This website will feature information about how we have succeeded with our own pigs, as well as a comprehensive look at current research into pig behavior and how that may be applicable to miniature pigs. I will also be posting information about the science of animal behavior, training basics, and any other pig-related information that might be of interest to you all. As a member of the Animal Behavior Society and a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, I am constantly working to learn more about animal behavior and how we can improve our relationships with our porcine companions. With a background in Zoology, I have worked with a myriad of animals – from scaly to feathery to furry – though I think there is nothing so extraordinary as the ordinary pig.
Please note that the content on this website is for informational purposes only. If you have a pet pig with behavioral problems, please contact a certified animal behaviorist or trainer.
There are many, many topics and specific concepts relating to pig behavior and dominance theory that I will be going over in detail as I add information to the site. Stay tuned for updates!