Journal article
How to Apply Positive-Reinforcement-Based Training for Self-Loading and Self-Unloading in Dromedary Camels
Animals, Vol.16(7), pp.1-25
03/04/2026
PMID: 41976083
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Abstract
This study aimed to describe how to train dromedary camels to self-load and unload using positive-reinforcement-based training and to examine its effects on behavior and welfare. Twelve camels, six unbroken male camels (group A) and six broken mixed-gender camels (group B), underwent nine days of positive reinforcement training, after an initial day of behavioral tests. The training session included six phases: loading the clicker, approaching the truck, ramp, truck, unloading, and returning to the station. Eye temperature was measured before and after training using infrared thermography, and training was recorded for further behavioral analysis. Overall, eight camels (66.7%) loaded and unloaded successfully at least once. The average total and daily training duration were 72 and 8.5 min per camel, respectively, with the fastest camel able to load taking only 30 min of total training over five days. Loading the clicker phase decreased by 41% per additional training day (p < 0.001) and was higher in camels that completed the training session compared to unsuccessful individuals (p = 0.027). Similarly, the time required to approach the truck decreased significantly across training days (p < 0.001). Training day had no effect on the duration of the ramp phase; however, this phase was overall shorter in the group of successful camels (p = 0.038). Loading inside the truck increased by 50% with each additional training day (p = 0.007). Camels in group B had significantly lower maximum eye temperatures than those in group A (p = 0.019), with no significant effect of day or time (p = 0.373). In conclusion, our study shows that training dromedary camels to self-load and unload is possible and does not increase eye temperature. It could mitigate transport stress, improving the safety of handlers and camels.
Details
- Title
- How to Apply Positive-Reinforcement-Based Training for Self-Loading and Self-Unloading in Dromedary Camels
- Creators
- Naod Thomas Masebo - University of BolognaAsim Faraz - Bahauddin Zakariya UniversityMaria Gaia Angeloni - University of BolognaFaizan Saleem - Bahauddin Zakariya UniversityHassan Qadir Buzdar - Bahauddin Zakariya UniversityBarbara Padalino - University of Bologna
- Publication Details
- Animals, Vol.16(7), pp.1-25
- Publisher
- MDPI
- Number of pages
- 25
- Grant note
- This work was done through the financial support of Animals Angels.
- Identifiers
- 991013372609702368
- Copyright
- © 2026 by the authors.
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Science and Engineering; Veterinary Science
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article