THE BIG 3 SERIES - Ethics... The Guardrails of Life

What does being a “pro dog trainer” mean and what is an "ethical" trainer?

An ethical trainer is simply one that follows a set of identified ethics.  The question becomes what are they, what role do they play and why are they important.

I'm finalizing my presentation for the LEGS in Motion Conference coming up next month and really wanted to put down some thoughts on following a set of ethics away from the ones established through an association or organization.  Being a Professional Dog Trainer to me transcends organizations and the politics of the industry.  A identified set of personal ethics can guide our interactions with dogs on a day to day basis regardless of what any organization says.   

Dog training is a profession that requires not only skill and expertise but also a compass. Ethical principles play a role and serve to guide the way trainers interact with their canine clients, the dog’s human companions and our colleagues. 

Ethics transcend labels.  It’s not about being “+R”, “Balanced” or “LIMA”… its about adhering to a set of established guidelines that become the “guardrails” for our life.  Guardrails on the highways are designed to keep you on the road and moving forward while a set of ethics keep you "on the road" of life and moving forward.

In this blog post, we will explore why it is essential for dog trainers to follow a set of ethics, emphasizing the positive impact it has on dogs, their owners, and the overall reputation of the dog training industry and provide a set a professional dog trainer can follow.

First and foremost, ethical standards in dog training promote the well-being of the animals involved. Dogs are intelligent, sentient beings capable of experiencing emotions such as joy, fear, and stress. Ethical trainers recognize the importance of treating dogs with kindness and respect, ensuring that training methods are motivational rather than chronically stress inducing. By being mindful of your learner and their journey, trainers can create a learning environment where dogs can thrive, building their confidence and trust.

Ethical dog trainers also focus on empowering dog owners with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster a strong bond with their pets. Through ethical training practices, owners learn effective communication and motivational methods, enabling them to understand their dogs better and address behavioral issues. This empowerment not only strengthens the relationship between dogs and their owners but also promotes responsible pet stewardship.

Furthermore, adherence to a set of ethics enhances the reputation of the dog training profession. Clients are more likely to seek the services of trainers who prioritize the well-being of their pets and demonstrate a commitment to ethical conduct. Positive experiences with ethical trainers lead to satisfied clients who are more likely to recommend their services to others, contributing to the growth of ethical dog training practices.

Ethical standards also play a crucial role in promoting a safe and supportive learning environment for both dogs and trainers. Ethical trainers prioritize the safety of both dogs and their owners, implementing training techniques that minimize the risk of accidents or injuries during sessions. 

Following a set of ethics is paramount for dog trainers. This not only prioritizes the well-being of dogs but also empowers owners, enhances the reputation of the profession, and creates a safe learning environment for everyone involved. By upholding these, dog trainers contribute to a compassionate and responsible approach to training regardless of methodology, ensuring that every interaction is based on understanding and respect. Ultimately, ethical dog training practices pave the way for healthier, happier relationships between dogs, their human companions and amongst colleagues enriching the lives of all parties involved.

In thinking of the challenges we face and how we can work to better the industry, identifying and following a set of ethics could allow us to raise the bar ourselves.  Below are a set of ethics that I personally try to follow and have shared with my clients.  Feel free to adopt them if you find meaning in them.

I developed these based on a stewardship model and involve incorporating the principles of compassion, patience, respect, and responsibility into the 10 ethical principles below.

1. Reverence for the Dog: I strive to uphold a deep reverence for the lives and well-being of all dogs I work with, recognizing their intrinsic value and dignity.
2. Compassion and Patience: I approach my work with compassion and patience, understanding that each dog is unique and may require different training methods and timelines to succeed.
3. Respect for the Individual: I respect the individuality of each dog, recognizing their specific needs, fears, and anxieties. My training methods are tailored to the personality and temperament of each dog.
4. Humility: I try to remain humble in my abilities and knowledge, continuously seeking to learn and improve my skills. I should always be open to feedback and willing to adapt my methods for the benefit of the dogs I am working with.
5. Responsibility and Accountability: I am responsible for the well-being of the animals under my care. I work to ensure that my training methods are safe, humane, and motivational. I am accountable for the outcomes of my training programs and my goal is to always be available should my clients need me.
6. Hospitality: I want to create a welcoming and safe environment for dogs, their owners and my fellow colleagues.  I aspire to foster a sense of community and support among dog owners and fellow pet professionals, promoting positive interactions and understanding.
7. Balance: My goal is to maintain a healthy work-life balance, ensuring I am physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of providing the best care and training for the dogs, clients and colleagues I interact with.
8. Gratitude: I approach my work with a sense of gratitude and humility for the opportunity to work with animals and the trust bestowed upon them by the dogs themselves, their owners and my colleagues.
9. Continuous Renewal: I will engage in continuous self-reflection and renewal, seeking personal growth to enhance my ability to empathize and connect with those I interact with.
10. Obedience to Ethical Standards: I will do my best to adhere to these ethics and the guidelines set forth by professional organizations I belong to and try to promote integrity and trust within the profession. 

By following these I know I can create a positive and respectful environment for my colleagues, the dogs I work with and their owners as well as foster strong relationships and successful training outcomes.

I hope this helps others and thanks for taking the time to read!

John