The basics of positive reinforcement

Modern animal behaviour science consistently shows that reward-based training produces better results than punishment-based methods — and without the side effects of fear and aggression. Positive reinforcement means immediately rewarding the behaviour you want, making it more likely to be repeated.

Rewards don't have to be food. Play, praise and access to things your pet loves (a favourite toy, a walk, a sniff) are all valid rewards. The key is timing: the reward must come within 1–2 seconds of the desired behaviour. A clicker or marker word ("yes!") bridges the gap between the behaviour and the treat.

Keep training sessions short — 5 minutes for puppies and kittens, 10–15 minutes for adults. Always end on a success.

Puppy training timeline

8–12 weeks: The critical socialisation window

This is the most important period in your puppy's life. Positive exposure to a wide variety of people, animals, sounds, surfaces and environments during this window shapes confidence for life. Enrol in a puppy preschool class — the socialisation is as valuable as the training. Start name recognition, sit, and toilet training immediately.

12–16 weeks: Foundation commands

Build on sit with drop, stay, come and leave it. Introduce loose-lead walking. Continue proactive socialisation even as the window begins to close. Prevent jumping and mouthing by redirecting rather than pushing away (pushing is exciting to puppies).

4–6 months: Adolescence begins

Many owners notice regression at this stage — patience is key. Puppies entering adolescence experience hormonal changes and increased independence. Keep training sessions fun and reward-rich. This is an excellent time to start a structured puppy class if you haven't already.

6–18 months: Consolidation

Practise commands in real-world environments with distractions. A well-trained dog at 18 months is the result of consistent daily practice — not intensive boot camp sessions.

Kitten socialisation

Kittens have a socialisation window from approximately 2–7 weeks — largely occurring before you bring them home. Choose a breeder or foster carer who handles kittens frequently and exposes them to household sounds, children and other animals. When your kitten arrives home, introduce new rooms gradually and provide hiding spots so they feel in control of the pace of exploration.

Yes, cats can be trained. Clicker training is highly effective for cats — use it to teach recall, targeting, sitting on cue and, critically, co-operating with grooming and vet handling. A cat that is comfortable being touched all over is much easier (and cheaper) to treat.

Common behaviour problems and how to address them

Excessive barking

Identify the trigger: attention-seeking, boredom, fear, alarm or territorial behaviour each require a different approach. Reward quiet behaviour and manage the environment to prevent rehearsal of unwanted barking (e.g. block window access for dogs that alarm-bark at passers-by).

Destructive behaviour

Almost always a symptom of insufficient mental stimulation, physical exercise, or separation anxiety. Increase enrichment — puzzle feeders, chew toys, training, sniff walks — and evaluate your routine before reaching for corrective tools.

Aggression

Any aggressive behaviour should be assessed by a vet first to rule out pain. If medically clear, consult a certified professional animal behaviourist (CPAB) or veterinary behaviourist. Do not attempt to "dominate" an aggressive dog — this is dangerous and counterproductive according to current science.

Toileting accidents

For puppies, accidents are expected until 4–6 months. Supervise constantly, reward outdoor elimination immediately, and clean accidents with an enzymatic cleaner (not ammonia-based products, which mimic urine smell). For adult pets that suddenly start toileting inside, see a vet to rule out medical causes.

Scratching furniture (cats)

Scratching is a normal feline behaviour used to mark territory, maintain claws and stretch. Provide multiple scratching posts in preferred locations (near sleeping areas, near entry points). Use double-sided tape or cat-safe deterrent spray on furniture temporarily. Never punish — redirect calmly to the post.