This is my code of conduct which I will endeavour to follow at all times when dealing with clients and their dogs:
- Do not harm. This is the ethical principle that has guided medical professionals for centuries, it is also my underpinning principle.
- I will combine positive reinforcement training techniques with an understanding of natural dog behaviour to educate owners, with the aim of achieving as far as possible, well socialised, well behaved dogs and good citizens on both ends of the lead.
- I oppose the use of techniques and equipment that harm or scare the dog.
- I will conduct myself honestly, professionally and compassionately and perform these services within the guidelines of this code.
- I will continue to develop additional skills and knowledge by keeping myself informed of advances in the field of canine behaviour, by sensibly evaluating developing theories and training methods and promoting them in a manner that will best serve my clients.
- I will use and advocate training methods that rely on eliciting and reinforcing desired behaviours. I will endeavour to inhibit or discourage unwanted or potentially dangerous behaviours with an acceptable level of ‘punishment’. I will minimise aversive techniques.
- When planning behavioural changing programes, I will take into account the physical and psychological well being of my client and their dog. I will also undertake to guide my clients on how to enrich their relationship with their dog.
- I will guarantee in general, satisfaction with my services without promising specific outcomes or results, being that all dogs and owners are different and have individual traits.
- I will recognise and determine my own professional limits and abilities. I will be open and honest with my clients and if necessary refer them to a further practitioner.
- I will respect the privacy policy and data protection act and will not disclose any information pertaining to my clients or their dogs without the client’s permission.
- I will strive to be compassionate and understanding of my clients needs and wishes and always be professional and treat clients with tact and sympathy.
- I will respect the views and methods of other dog trainers and behaviour practitioners. I will not publicly decry their conduct, methods or opinions unless that conduct could be considered as abusive.
- I will at all times, respect my clients and maintain a professional relationship with them. I will not exploit them for improper personal, professional or financial gain, nor seek inappropriately to impose my values on them.
- I will at all times conduct my work, considering the health and safety of my client, their dog and the general public as well as myself.
- This code of conduct is a living document and will be developed to reflect adaptive dog behavioural and training methods.