Working with dogs is a privilege as well as a profession. For trainers, behaviourists, and other canine specialists, it’s not just about teaching skills or resolving issues – it’s about delivering high standards of welfare, supporting owners, and representing the industry with integrity.
At the Animal Focused Alliance, we believe that ethical, professional practice is the foundation for building a trusted, respected dog business. Here are some key considerations for anyone striving to do things properly.
Put Welfare at the Heart of Everything
The first priority for all pet professionals should be the welfare of their clients, both when they are in their care and when they are returned to the owners. Ethics and welfare go hand in hand. The best trainers and behaviourists don’t just deliver results; they work with methods that respect the dog’s physical and emotional needs.
- Follow evidence-based approaches. Avoid outdated or punitive methods and commit to ongoing professional development.
- Recognise individuality. Every dog has its own history, temperament, and challenges. Tailor your approach to the animal, not the other way around.
- Use the Five Domains model of animal welfare (nutrition, environment, health, behaviour, and mental state) to guide your decisions.
- Feed back to owners. If you are concerned
about a dog's welfare or husbandry in its home environment be prepared to raise
this in a supportive way with the owners. Your duty of care for the dog doesn't
stop when you return it to the owner.
Be Properly Insured, Professionally Responsible
Insurance might not be the most glamorous part of running a business, but it is one of the most important. Even with the best preparation, accidents can happen – a dog could injure itself during training, a client might trip at your premises or you may be ill and require time off work.
Being properly insured protects both you and your clients, giving peace of mind that incidents will be handled responsibly and no-one will be out of pocket. Displaying proof of insurance also builds trust: it shows owners you take your responsibilities seriously.
That’s why the Alliance launched the Pet Pro Challenge: Properly Insured, Professionally Responsible, encouraging pet professionals to highlight their commitment to working responsibly and to remind owners to always ask about insurance before choosing any pet care service.
Being properly insured protects both you and your clients, giving peace of mind that incidents will be handled responsibly and no-one will be out of pocket. Displaying proof of insurance also builds trust: it shows owners you take your responsibilities seriously.
That’s why the Alliance launched the Pet Pro Challenge: Properly Insured, Professionally Responsible, encouraging pet professionals to highlight their commitment to working responsibly and to remind owners to always ask about insurance before choosing any pet care service.
Stay Compliant with Legal and Licensing Requirements
Dog businesses operate under a range of legal frameworks, from the Animal Welfare Act to local Public Spaces Protection Orders. Depending on the services you provide, you may also require an animal activities license (for example, home boarding or dog day care).
Operating without the correct paperwork not only damages trust but may leave dogs unprotected if something goes wrong. Staying compliant shows professionalism and reassures both clients and regulators that you are operating above board.
Operating without the correct paperwork not only damages trust but may leave dogs unprotected if something goes wrong. Staying compliant shows professionalism and reassures both clients and regulators that you are operating above board.
Keep Learning and Growing
The canine industry is dynamic, with new scientific research and welfare guidance emerging all the time. An ethical professional never stops learning.
Consider:
Ongoing education demonstrates commitment, improves your services, and helps build credibility with clients.
Consider:
- Regular CPD in behaviour, welfare, or first aid
- Attending conferences, webinars, or sector training events.
- Networking with other professionals to share knowledge and best practice
- Signing up to the Animal Focused Alliance monthly newsletter
Ongoing education demonstrates commitment, improves your services, and helps build credibility with clients.
Be Transparent and Build Trust
Transparency is the foundation of client relationships. Be clear about your methods, your policies, and your qualifications. Provide written contracts or agreements where relevant including payment expectations, and explain how you’ll manage risks or emergencies.
Clients who know you are open and honest are more likely to trust you and recommend you to others.
Clients who know you are open and honest are more likely to trust you and recommend you to others.
Join a Trusted Organisation
Becoming part of a reputable trade body like the Animal Focused Alliance gives your clients added confidence in your professionalism. Our members commit to a clear code of conduct, stay up to date with sector developments, and benefit from Primary Authority assured advice. Displaying the Alliance logo shows clients that you are supported, accountable, and part of a wider movement dedicated to raising standards in the pet care industry.
Final Thoughts
Running an ethical and professional dog business isn’t just about loving dogs – it’s about combining passion with responsibility. Welfare-first practice, legal compliance, insurance, transparency, and continuous development are all part of the package.
By committing to professionalism, you not only strengthen your own business but also help raise standards across the entire canine sector. Together, we can ensure every dog receives the safe, respectful, and compassionate care it deserves.
By committing to professionalism, you not only strengthen your own business but also help raise standards across the entire canine sector. Together, we can ensure every dog receives the safe, respectful, and compassionate care it deserves.
About the Animal Focused Alliance
The Animal Focused Alliance is a UK trade association for pet professionals, supporting dog trainers, walkers, groomers, boarders, and more. Our members commit to a welfare-first code of conduct and benefit from sector updates, Primary Authority Partnerships across England and Wales as well as advice, discounts and resources that help raise standards across the industry. Learn more at www.animalfocusedalliance.co.uk
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