Positive reinforcement training of pigs can significantly improve welfare during routine husbandry procedures and reduce stress during handling, with benefits for both animals and stockpeople.
Fear of humans and aversive handling are major sources of chronic stress for pigs in farm settings. Conventional pig handling often relies on boards, paddles, and physical restraint, which are effective in moving animals but cause acute fear and can injure both pigs and handlers. Positive reinforcement-based approaches demonstrate that pigs can learn cooperative behaviours that dramatically reduce handling stress. Pigs that are accustomed to calm human contact and have learned to associate stockpeople with positive outcomes show measurably better welfare outcomes across multiple indicators. Implementing these approaches requires investment in training and time, but evidence increasingly shows this pays off in reduced injuries, better growth rates, and improved herd health.