How to train a tiger
- Beginner
- 36 lessons
- 7 h 24 min
About this course
This beginner-level course explores the fundamentals of training a tiger, focusing on the principles of animal behavior, safety, and communication. It is designed for those who are curious about the methods used by professional trainers and want to understand the theory behind working with large cats.
The course is suitable for aspiring animal trainers, zoo volunteers, or anyone interested in wildlife management. No prior experience with tigers is required, but a respect for safety and ethics is essential.
By the end of the course, learners will be able to explain key training concepts such as positive reinforcement and desensitization. They will also understand how to assess risks and design basic training plans, though practical handling should only be done under expert supervision.
Course content
7 sections · 36 lessons · 7 h 24 min total
1Understanding Tiger Behavior5 lessons · 54 min
- Tiger Senses and Perception10 min
- Solitary Nature and Social Cues12 min
- Vocalizations and Body Language12 min
- Hunting Instincts and Play Drive10 min
- Stress Signals and Calm Behavior10 min
2Safety and Ethics Essentials5 lessons · 1 h
- Why Safety and Ethics Matter10 min
- Legal Rules for Tiger Training15 min
- Ethical Treatment of Tigers15 min
- Safety Protocols and Equipment10 min
- Emergency Response Planning10 min
3Principles of Learning Theory6 lessons · 1 h 11 min
- What Is Learning Theory10 min
- Classical Conditioning Basics12 min
- Operant Conditioning Basics12 min
- Positive Reinforcement Explained10 min
- Reinforcers for Tigers12 min
- Applying Reinforcement to Tigers15 min
4Communication and Cueing5 lessons · 1 h
- Body Language Basics10 min
- Vocal Cues and Tone10 min
- Environmental Signals10 min
- Combining Cues Effectively15 min
- Reading Tiger Responses15 min
5Desensitization and Habituation6 lessons · 1 h 25 min
- What Desensitization and Habituation Mean10 min
- Reading Stress and Fear Signals15 min
- Setting Up Controlled Exposure Sessions15 min
- Introducing New Objects and Sounds20 min
- Adapting to People and Handling15 min
- Tracking Progress and Avoiding Setbacks10 min
6Designing Basic Training Plans4 lessons · 1 h
- Setting Realistic Training Goals10 min
- Structuring a Training Session15 min
- Creating a Step-by-Step Plan20 min
- Measuring Progress and Adjusting15 min
7Risk Assessment and Supervision5 lessons · 54 min
- Spotting Hazards Around Tigers10 min
- Rating Likelihood and Severity12 min
- Why Supervision Is Essential10 min
- Control Measures and Limits12 min
- Reporting and Reviewing Risks10 min