What IMDT Membership Means

As a proud member of the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT), my work is guided by a clear, ethical framework designed to protect dogs’ welfare and support owners with kind, effective training. The IMDT Code of Ethics sets high professional standards, and I choose to align with it because it reflects exactly what I believe dog training should be: fair, humane, science‑led, and centred on the dog’s emotional wellbeing.

What IMDT Membership Means

Being an IMDT trainer means I have undergone formal assessment in both practical skills and theoretical knowledge. It also means I commit to ongoing professional development, staying up to date with behavioural science, welfare research, and best practice.

But most importantly, it means I follow a strict ethical code that prioritises:

• Kindness and respect for dogs and their emotional needs

• Training without fear, intimidation, or pain

• Clear communication and transparency with owners

• Evidence‑based methods grounded in behavioural science

• Professional conduct and safeguarding for dogs, owners, and the wider community

My Training Approach

I do not use – or recommend – any methods or tools designed to cause discomfort, fear, or

distress. That includes physical corrections, intimidation, startle‑based techniques, or anything that relies on pain or fear to suppress behaviour.

Instead, my work focuses on:

• Reinforcement‑based training that builds trust and confidence

• Understanding the dog’s emotional state and adjusting training accordingly

• Setting dogs up for success through thoughtful management and clear guidance

• Teaching owners how to communicate kindly and effectively

• Creating training plans that are achievable, welfare‑friendly, and tailored to each dog

Why This Matters

Dogs learn best when they feel safe. Training rooted in fear or discomfort may suppress behaviour temporarily, but it does not address underlying emotions and can create long‑term fallout. Ethical, science‑based training supports the whole dog: their wellbeing, their confidence, and their relationship with you.

My commitment to the IMDT Code of Ethics is my commitment to your dog. It’s a promise that every session, every recommendation, and every training plan will be designed with kindness, clarity, and welfare at its core.

If you’d like to know more about how I work or discuss your dog’s needs, you’re always welcome to get in touch.

You can see the full IMDT Code of Ethics here.

About the IMDT

The IMDT is one of the leading education providers for Dog Training and Behaviourists in the UK. It is a Charter Member Organisation of the UK Dog Behaviour and Training Charter which, in a non-regulated industry, is aiming to raise standards in dog training and behaviour through ethical, wellbeing and welfare-lead practice.