Most of the time, when you think about ethics, it is under the guise of medical or legal professionals. It is hard to imagine that there is a code of ethics in puppy training, but according to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), it is important to the human-animal bond to use the right methods. Pet owners can learn a lot from their list of ethical constraints in how they relate to training dogs.
Ethics in Puppy Training
Aversive training methods are not condoned by ethical trainers. This can include electric fencing, electronic shock collars, and spraying a dog with fluid. This is not an inclusive list. The PDTA does not recommend any method which creates fear, stress, or pain in your dog. Instead, ethical puppy training includes rewarding positive behavior while avoiding punishing the bad behaviors.
Consider Your Dog’s Behavior
When animals start acting differently, it is often out of an underlying problem of health, not defiance. Dogs just do not think that way. If your puppy suddenly starts having accidents after being potty-trained, it could be a urinary tract infection. You have to consider all the factors of your animal when it is not acting correctly.
Work with your puppy’s behavior and direct it in a positive manner. Puppies chew. Their teeth are developing and it uses up their energy. While they are in that stage, you will need to provide opportunities for them to chew on appropriate toys instead of your shoes and other belongings. Reward that behavior so that they know it is okay to chew on their own toys.
Enforce the Positive Behaviors You Want to See
Professional and ethical trainers only use scientifically proven techniques that are humane to animals. Make sure you follow their lead in your own ethical puppy training. You can have a well-behaved dog that knows what is right and wrong when you train them in the right way. Whether you are working with a trainer or on your own, have a good plan to ensure you have a happy dog.