Naomi takes a deep dive into food-based reinforcement and what you can do when your pet just doesn’t seem interested in any treats you’re offering.

Key Moments

[00:44] The two kinds of non-reinforcing food reinforcement events

[01:19] How to handle these two types of events

• [01:23] Handling disgust
• [01:55] Handling a lack of interest

[02:43] Why food reinforcement is an important tool in your training arsenal

[03:28] Turning your pet’s response to treats from meh to hells yeah!

• [03:33] Adjusting some motivating operations
• [03:56] A warning against severe caloric restrictions
• [05:20] How and why food provision methods and timing can affect the effectiveness of food as reinforcement
• [05:50] How to switch up caloric intake safely and time training accordingly

[06:18] Other ways to increase the value of food treats

• [06:25] Adjusting the food itself
• [07:27] Change the method of food delivery
• [07:57] Consistency
• [08:13] Training environment
• [09:21] Trust

[09:57] Finding the right treat/delivery option

• [10:08] No-pressure food tests
• [11:20] Experimenting with food delivery options

[11:57] Teach your pet to put it all together

• [12:15] Use the events they get peppy for as reinforcement for taking food
• [14:25] Document different food tests to find out what works the best

Resources

Get access to The BIG LIST of food treats (for cats and dogs)