What Pets Actually Want & Need | Dr. Karolina Westlund
In this episode of the Huberman Lab podcast, animal behavior expert Dr. Karolina Westlund explores how understanding animals' natural behaviors can improve pet care. The discussion covers how selective breeding affects different dog breeds' behavioral traits, and examines why cats maintain their complete hunting sequence. Westlund explains how domestic settings can impact animal behavior and suggests ways to accommodate pets' natural instincts.
The conversation also delves into important aspects of animal welfare, including how activities like "nose work" can regulate dogs' emotional states, and the significance of reading animal body language before interaction. Westlund and Huberman address pet attachment styles, methods for introducing animals to new environments, and examine recent research on the effects of neutering on animal behavior and aggression.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Apr 28, 2025 episode of the Huberman Lab
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1-Page Summary
Ethological Perspective on Domestic Animal Behavior and Psychology
In a discussion between Karolina Westlund and Andrew Huberman, they explore how understanding animals' natural behaviors in the wild can improve care for domestic pets. Westlund explains that captivity can intensify dominance behaviors due to limited space, making it crucial to study wild behavior patterns for better animal welfare.
Understanding Breed-Specific Behaviors
During domestication, dogs were selectively bred for specific parts of the predatory sequence. Westlund and Huberman discuss how different breeds excel at different behaviors: hounds and border collies for stalking, greyhounds for chasing, and retrievers and terriers for grabbing and killing. Meanwhile, cats have retained their complete hunting sequence and prefer solitary eating habits, which Westlund suggests should be accommodated in domestic settings.
Enhancing Animal Welfare Through Natural Behaviors
Huberman highlights that activities like "nose work" can help regulate dogs' arousal levels and improve their emotional state. Westlund points out that animals need to express their natural foraging behaviors, suggesting methods like scatter feeding or snuffle mats to fulfill these drives. They also discuss the importance of reading animal body language and conducting "consent tests" before physical interaction, with Westlund noting that slow strokes are generally more effective than fast patting for dogs.
Early Experiences and Socialization
Westlund explains that dogs develop attachment bonds with humans differently from imprinting, as it involves multiple senses and takes longer to form. She describes how the "strange situation test" reveals different attachment styles in dogs, similar to humans. For introducing animals to new environments or companions, Westlund recommends gradual, multi-sensory introductions, starting with scent exchange before progressing to visual and physical contact.
Neutering and Hormone Management
Recent studies discussed by Huberman and Westlund suggest that neutering can lead to increased aggression and noise sensitivity in some animals. Huberman shares his personal experience with his dog's improvement after [restricted term] therapy following neutering. Westlund notes that neutering regulations vary significantly by country and recommends consulting veterinarians about alternatives like vasectomy or chemical castration when considering pet reproduction management.
1-Page Summary
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Clarifications
- The predatory sequence in dogs is a series of behaviors related to hunting and capturing prey. It typically includes stages like searching, stalking, chasing, grabbing, and killing. Different dog breeds have been selectively bred to excel in specific parts of this sequence, such as stalking, chasing, or grabbing. Understanding these breed-specific behaviors can help in training and caring for dogs effectively.
- Nose work for regulating dogs' arousal levels involves engaging dogs in scent-based activities to stimulate their natural hunting instincts, which can help calm and focus them. By encouraging dogs to use their sense of smell through tasks like searching for hidden treats or objects, it provides mental stimulation and a constructive outlet for their energy. This type of enrichment can be particularly beneficial for high-energy or anxious dogs, as it offers a positive and rewarding way to channel their instincts. Overall, nose work can help dogs relax, build confidence, and improve their overall well-being.
- Scatter feeding involves spreading an animal's food in various locations, encouraging them to search and forage, mimicking natural hunting behaviors. Snuffle mats are textured mats with hiding spots where food can be hidden, stimulating the animal's sense of smell and encouraging mental stimulation during feeding. These methods engage the animal's natural instincts, providing mental enrichment and preventing boredom or behavioral issues. By incorporating scatter feeding or snuffle mats, pet owners can help satisfy their pets' natural drives and promote overall well-being.
- "Consent tests" before physical interaction with animals involve assessing the animal's willingness to engage in contact. This can include observing the animal's body language for signs of comfort or discomfort. By conducting these tests, individuals can ensure that interactions with animals are positive and respectful. It helps establish boundaries and promotes a better understanding of the animal's preferences.
- Attachment bonds in dogs are emotional connections they form with humans. The "strange situation test" is a method used to assess attachment styles in dogs by observing their behavior when separated from and reunited with their owners in a novel environment. This test helps researchers and professionals understand how dogs perceive and interact with their human caregivers, providing insights into their attachment patterns and emotional responses. Understanding these bonds can help improve the well-being and relationships between dogs and their owners.
- Neutering in animals can impact aggression and noise sensitivity. Some studies suggest neutering may lead to increased aggression and noise sensitivity in certain animals. Hormones play a role in behavior, and altering them through neutering can have varying effects on an individual animal's behavior. Consulting a veterinarian for guidance on the potential behavioral changes post-neutering is advisable.
- [restricted term] therapy for behavior improvement in neutered animals involves supplementing [restricted term] levels in animals that have been neutered to address behavioral issues that may arise due to hormonal changes post-neutering. This therapy aims to help manage aggression and noise sensitivity that can sometimes occur after neutering by restoring hormone levels to a more balanced state. It is important to consult with a veterinarian before considering [restricted term] therapy for your pet to ensure it is a suitable and safe option. Hormone management post-neutering can vary based on individual animal needs and should be approached with professional guidance.
- Neutering regulations can vary significantly by country, impacting when and how the procedure is performed on animals. Alternatives to traditional neutering methods include vasectomy, a surgical procedure that prevents sperm from reaching semen, and chemical castration, which involves using drugs to suppress reproductive hormones in animals. These alternatives provide options for pet owners looking to manage reproduction without fully removing the animal's ability to reproduce. Consulting with veterinarians is recommended to determine the most suitable approach based on individual circumstances and preferences.
Counterarguments
- While captivity can intensify dominance behaviors, it's also possible that a well-structured environment with enrichment can mitigate these behaviors.
- Some argue that domestication has significantly altered the behavior of pets, and while wild behavior patterns are informative, they may not always directly apply to domesticated animals.
- The idea that specific breeds excel at certain behaviors can be overly deterministic, as individual dogs within a breed can show a wide range of abilities and temperaments.
- While cats generally prefer solitary eating, some cats may enjoy social feeding or the presence of other cats, depending on their socialization and individual preferences.
- Activities like "nose work" are beneficial, but they may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with certain medical conditions or behavioral issues.
- Scatter feeding and snuffle mats are great for many animals, but some pets may become frustrated or anxious with these feeding methods, preferring more straightforward approaches.
- The interpretation of animal body language can be subjective, and what is considered a positive or negative signal may vary between individuals and contexts.
- "Consent tests" are important, but they may not always accurately reflect an animal's willingness for interaction, as some animals may not show clear signs of consent or discomfort.
- The effectiveness of slow strokes versus fast patting can vary among individual dogs, with some dogs preferring different types of touch.
- The "strange situation test" may not capture the full complexity of canine attachment styles, as it is a test designed originally for human infants and may not account for all variables in dog-human relationships.
- Multi-sensory introductions are generally good practice, but some animals may require different approaches depending on their past experiences and temperament.
- The link between neutering and increased aggression or noise sensitivity is not conclusively established, as other factors such as genetics, environment, and training also play significant roles in behavior.
- [restricted term] therapy following neutering is not universally beneficial and may have side effects; it should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- While consulting veterinarians about reproductive management is recommended, the decision to neuter or choose alternatives like vasectomy or chemical castration should also take into account the specific needs and circumstances of the animal and the owner.
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Ethological Perspective on Domestic Animal Behavior and Psychology
Karolina Westlund, alongside Andrew Huberman, discuss an ethological perspective on domestic animal behavior, emphasizing how understanding a species’ natural behavior in the wild can guide better care and welfare for them in captivity or as domestic pets.
Ethologists Analyze Species Through Social, Foraging, and Threat Behaviors
Westlund raises the point that captivity often exacerbates dominance behaviors compared to the wild because there’s limited ability for animals to disperse in search of other resources, thus heightening aggression. Ethologists study natural wild behavior to improve the life and care of captive animals, focusing on social interactions, parenting behavior, sexual behavior, and foraging behaviors. An understanding of what makes animals feel safe and the assessment of their core emotional responses and arousal states is also crucial for their welfare.
Domestic Animals Adapt From Wild Counterparts, Affecting Their Needs and Behavior
Domestic animals have evolved from their wild counterparts, which impacts their needs and behaviors.
Predatory Behaviors in Dogs Vary By Historical Breed Purpose
Huberman and Westlund delve into the neurological and physiological requirements of different dog breeds that stem from their wolf lineage. During domestication, dogs were selectively bred for specific tasks within the predatory sequence such as orientation, eye-stalking, chasing, biting, dissection, and eating. Each breed varies in these behaviors, with some like hounds and border collies bred for sniffing and stalking, while others like greyhounds for chasing, and retrievers and terriers for grabbing and killing, respectively.
Huberman shares that his bulldog mastiff shows no inclination towards typical predatory behaviors, aligning with the breed's historical purpose. Bulldogs, in particular, were historically bred for bull baiting, resulting in specific physical characteristics like a robust stature and short snout, which influence their behavior. They were required to have high pain tolerance and protective traits, showing loyalty and a predisposition to defend their owners.
Domestic Cats Retain Predatory Sequence, Leading To Distinct Social Needs
Westlund notes that despite cats' evolution, they retain the whole hunting sequence and often perform even the killing bite, preferring to eat alone and bring their prey to a safe place before losing interest. This implies that even in domestic settings, allowing cats to expr ...
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Ethological Perspective on Domestic Animal Behavior and Psychology
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Counterarguments
- While understanding natural behaviors is important, domestication has significantly altered some species, and their needs may differ from their wild ancestors.
- Not all dominance behaviors in captivity are due to limited resources; some may be due to improper socialization or other environmental factors.
- Ethological studies are valuable, but they should be complemented with other disciplines like veterinary science and animal psychology for a more comprehensive approach to animal welfare.
- The assumption that all domestic animals have evolved from wild counterparts may not account for the complexity of domestication and the influence of human environments on animal behavior.
- The focus on predatory behaviors in dogs may overlook other important aspects of their psychology, such as their capacity for companionship and their cognitive abilities.
- The historical purpose of a breed may not always predict an individual dog's behavior due to individual variation and the influence of the dog's environment and experiences.
- While cats may retain the predatory sequence, the degree to which they express these behaviors can vary widely among individuals, and not all cats may exhibit strong predatory drives.
- The solitary nature of c ...
Actionables
- You can create a pet enrichment diary to track and improve your pet's well-being by noting their reactions to different stimuli and activities. For example, if you have a dog that was bred for herding, try incorporating games that mimic herding behavior, like using a large ball they can push around the yard. Note their enthusiasm and any changes in behavior to find the most fulfilling activities for them.
- Develop a 'predatory sequence puzzle feeder' for your cat to stimulate their natural hunting instincts. This could be a series of boxes with holes just big enough for their paws, hiding treats or their regular kibble inside. It encourages them to 'hunt' for their food, providing mental stimulation and honoring their solitary eating preference.
- Organize a 'breed discovery walk' for your neighborhood, where ...
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Enhancing Welfare and Relationships Through Innate Needs
The importance of acknowledging and catering to animals' natural behavioral needs for their health, wellbeing, and to deepen the bond with humans is emphasized by experts.
Meeting Animals' Natural Behavioral Drives Is Crucial for Health
Karolina Westlund and Andrew Huberman discuss behaviors that should be facilitated in domesticated animals to meet their innate needs.
"Nose Work" Boosts Mood and Regulates Arousal In Dogs
Huberman highlights that all dog breeds may enjoy sniffing as it is part of their ancestral predatory sequence. Offering activities like "nose work," which allows dogs to find a specific scent and be rewarded, helps regulate their arousal. This type of enrichment can calm highly strung dogs and invigorate those that are less active, thus contributing to a positive emotional state. He also notes that his bulldog shows determination and joy urinating on various things during walks, which Westlund explains is a way for dogs to communicate with other dogs and receive positive emotional experiences.
Supporting Wellbeing By Allowing Animals To Self-Soothe
Westlund points out that in the wild, horses forage for up to 16 hours a day, yet when they are in captivity, they eat quickly and for a fraction of that time, which can lead to problem behaviors. Similarly, domestic animals like pet birds and dogs possess innate foraging behaviors that must be expressed to maintain health. It’s suggested that methods like scatter feeding or using snuffle mats can help fulfill these natural drives, thereby supporting their wellbeing.
Respecting Animals' Communication and Space Promotes Positive Bonds
Tail wagging in dogs and gaze direction in cats can communicate their emotional states, according to Westlund. Recognizing these signals and providing appropriate responses is vital for positive human-animal interactions.
Stroking and "Consent Tests" Build Trust and Comfort
Westlund discusses the positive effects of petting when an animal enjoys it and how humans should be aware that their approach to physical interaction, like hugging, might be perceived as threatening by some animals. She recommends conducting a "consent test" to ascerta ...
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Enhancing Welfare and Relationships Through Innate Needs
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Counterarguments
- While "nose work" and other enrichment activities are beneficial for many dogs, some dogs may have medical or psychological conditions that make such activities stressful or unenjoyable, and alternative forms of enrichment may be necessary.
- The concept of allowing animals to self-soothe through foraging behaviors assumes that all domestic animals retain these instincts to a degree that is beneficial for their wellbeing, but individual animals may differ in their needs and preferences.
- The effectiveness of "consent tests" in building trust and comfort with animals may vary depending on the individual animal's past experiences, temperament, and the skill of the human in reading the animal's subtle cues.
- The preference for slow strokes over fast patting in dogs is a generalization that may not apply to all dogs; some dogs may prefer different types of touch or may not enjoy being touched at all.
- The idea that calm body language and breathing can co-regulate animal emotions is based on the polyvagal theory, which, while influential, is still a theory and not universally accepted or applicable in all situations or with all animals.
- The assumption that consistent interaction will always lead to improved understanding and trust between humans and an ...
Actionables
- You can create a DIY puzzle feeder for your pet to stimulate their foraging instincts. Start by taking a few small boxes or containers and hiding your pet's favorite treats inside. Cut holes just large enough for your pet to reach in with their paw or nose. This encourages them to use their problem-solving skills and satisfies their foraging behavior in a safe, indoor environment.
- Develop a routine of "check-in" moments with your pet to enhance communication and trust. During these moments, observe your pet's body language closely and offer them a choice to engage or walk away. For example, before petting your cat, extend a finger and see if they come forward to sniff or nuzzle, indicating consent. If they turn away, respect their choice, reinforcing trust through autonomy.
- Introduce a "calmness ...
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Influence of Early Experiences and Socialization on Animal Behavior
Karolina Westlund and Huberman delve into how early experiences and socialization impact the behavior of animals, emphasizing the importance of attachment bonds and introducing animals to new environments and companions in a controlled, multi-sensory manner.
Early Weaning, Limited Socialization Cause Insecure Attachment, Maladaptive Behaviors
The experts discuss the negative effects of early weaning and limited socialization on animal welfare and behavior.
Attachment Bonds, Beyond Imprinting, Gradually Affect Self-Regulation
Westlund explains the differences between imprinting and attachment in animals. She clarifies that dogs develop attachment bonds with humans, which are different from the imprinting process because they take longer to form and involve more senses. This attachment depends on the caregiver’s responsiveness to the young animal's needs. A securely attached dog is better at self-regulating and can calm down more easily after experiencing stress, while insecure attachment can lead to maladaptive behaviors.
"Strange Situation" Test Reveals Animal Attachment Style, Guides Training and Care
Referring to experiments on dogs that mirror the "strange situation test" used in human studies, Westlund highlights that dogs can form secure or insecure attachments similar to humans. This understanding of a dog's attachment style can guide how it is trained and cared for. Westlund suggests that early weaning might predispose dogs to insecure attachments, while secure attachment might make elaborate socialization procedures less critical, although definitive research is needed.
Gradual, Multi-Sensory Introductions Help Animals Acclimate To New Environments and Companions
Westlund and Huberman provide strategies for acclimating animals to new circumstances and companions through controlled and gradual methods.
Scent Exchange and Controlled Interactions Reduce Fear and Aggression
Westlund mentions that dogs interpret and value information in urine smells as part of socialization. Huberma ...
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Influence of Early Experiences and Socialization on Animal Behavior
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Clarifications
- Imprinting in animals is a rapid, instinctive form of learning that occurs early in life and involves forming strong, often irreversible attachments to specific individuals or objects. Attachment in animals, on the other hand, is a more complex and enduring bond that develops over time through interactions and experiences with caregivers or companions. While imprinting is typically focused on survival behaviors and recognition, attachment involves emotional connections and the development of social skills and self-regulation. Dogs, for example, can form attachment bonds with humans based on trust, comfort, and consistent care, which influence their behavior and well-being in various ways.
- The "Strange Situation" test, originally developed for studying human attachment, has been adapted for animal studies to assess attachment styles in animals like dogs. This test involves briefly separating the animal from its caregiver in an unfamiliar environment and observing the animal's behavior upon reunion. The responses exhibited during this test help researchers determine whether the animal has a secure or insecure attachment style, which can influence their behavior and interactions with humans and other animals. Understanding an animal's attachment style through this test can guide training and care strategies to promote their well-being and social development.
- Scent exchange in dogs involves the sharing and interpreting of scent cues through urine or other bodily secretions. Dogs use these scents to gather information about each other, such as identity, reproductive status, and emotional state. This exchange help ...
Counterarguments
- While early weaning and limited socialization are generally seen as negative, some argue that in certain contexts, such as with livestock or in wildlife rehabilitation, early weaning may be necessary for practical or survival reasons.
- The concept of attachment bonds in dogs is well-accepted, but some researchers may argue that the human-canine bond is unique and may not be directly comparable to human attachment styles.
- The idea that securely attached dogs are better at self-regulation could be challenged by studies showing that genetics and breed-specific traits also play a significant role in an animal's ability to self-regulate.
- The assertion that understanding a dog's attachment style can guide training and care might be too simplistic, as training methods are often multifaceted and must consider a variety of behavioral and environmental factors.
- The suggestion that early weaning predisposes dogs to insecure attachments could be countered by evidence of resilience in dogs, where even those weaned early can develop secure attachments under the right conditions.
- The claim that secure attachment may make elaborate socialization procedures less critical could be contested by emphasizing that socialization has many facets and benefits beyond attachment security, such as reducing fear and aggression towards unfamiliar stimuli.
- The effectiveness of gradual, multi-sensory introductions could be questioned in terms of p ...
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Neutering and Hormone Effects on Animal Health and Behavior
Recent studies and personal experiences shared by professionals like Andrew Huberman and Karolina Westlund suggest reevaluating the common practice of neutering and considering alternative approaches to animal hormone management.
Sex Organ Removal Negatively Impacts Animal Physiology and Behavior
The last couple of decades have revealed that neutering animals, particularly males and depending on their age at the time of the procedure, can lead to an increase in aggression, increased reactivity, and heightened noise sensitivity.
Neutering May Increase Aggression and Noise Sensitivity In Animals
Andrew Huberman discusses changes he noticed in his dog, Costello, after neutering. These changes included joint aching, pain, and unusual nail growth, which are speculated to be related to the removal of the sex organs and the consequent hormonal imbalance.
Hormone Therapy in Neutered Animals Restores Functions
After observing these detrimental effects, Huberman decided to inject Costello with [restricted term], which dramatically improved the dog's condition. The hormone therapy resulted in an increase in vigor and a more active disposition. This case implies that hormone therapy in neutered animals can indeed restore some aspects of their health and behavior that were altered by neutering.
Alternatives to Neutering: Vasectomy or Chemical Castration
When it comes to neutering norms and regulations, there is significant variation from country to country.
Neutering Norms and Regulations Vary By Country
Karolina Westlund highlights the stark differences in neutering laws between countr ...
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Neutering and Hormone Effects on Animal Health and Behavior
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Clarifications
- Andrew Huberman is a neuroscientist known for his research on brain function and visual systems. Karolina Westlund is a behavior scientist specializing in animal behavior and welfare. Both individuals have shared insights on the effects of neutering on animal health and behavior. Their perspectives highlight the importance of considering alternatives to traditional neutering practices.
- Hormone therapy in neutered animals involves administering hormones like [restricted term] to address health and behavioral changes caused by neutering. This therapy aims to restore hormonal balance and improve aspects like vigor and activity levels in animals. By supplementing these hormones, some negative effects of neutering, such as increased aggression and noise sensitivity, can be mitigated. Consulting a veterinarian is crucial to determine the appropriate hormone therapy for individual animals based on their specific needs and conditions.
- Neutering laws vary between countries, with some nations having strict regulations on the procedure. For example, in Norway, neutering dogs is only allowed for medical reasons. In contrast, in Western Australia, dogs are typically required to be neutered unless there are medical or breeding purposes. The United States has not established a uniform stance on this issue, leading to differing practices across states. Consulting with a veterinarian is crucial to understand the specific regulations and best practices for managing animal reprod ...
Counterarguments
- While some studies suggest neutering can lead to increased aggression and sensitivity, other research indicates that neutering can reduce the risk of certain aggressive behaviors, particularly those that are sexually motivated.
- The relationship between sex organ removal and animal behavior is complex, and not all animals exhibit negative changes post-neutering; some may show no change or even positive behavioral adjustments.
- Hormone therapy may not be suitable for all neutered animals and could potentially have its own side effects; more research is needed to understand the long-term implications of hormone replacement in neutered animals.
- The variation in neutering norms and regulations by country reflects cultural, ethical, and practical considerations, and there may be valid reasons for these differences that are not solely based on animal health.
- While consulting with veterinarians is important, pet owners should also ...
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