ABSTRACT
This chapter defines animal training as the modification of an animal’s behavior by the systematic and well-planned use of operant and classical conditioning techniques. To ensure future professional development of science-based practical animal training, animal trainers worldwide should use the same terminology to communicate, teach, and discuss all the practical elements of animal training. The science behind animal training entails both classical and operant conditioning, but trainers often tend to focus on the operant aspects such as cues, criteria, and rate of reinforcement. One way to address animal training is by the use of the ABC model — the ABC of behavior. Starting up animal training in the laboratory facility should start by choosing a reinforcer (often some kind of food) and making sure that the animal will eat the food when offered by the trainer. Working with laboratory animals, animal training should be an integral part of the experimental protocol.
