It's time to talk about the elephant in the room: AI

We're very aware that we're living in an ever-evolving technological world, where someone can simply ask AI any question and get a seemingly scientifically accurate response within seconds.

"How do I stop my dog barking?" "Which training method is best?" "Give me a step by step toilet training guide"

And with a single click, you have a response. So, why would you bother booking a dog trainer? Here's the truth:

Yes, AI can give you generalised information from a surface scan of internet data that is based on the perfect dog in the perfect setting with NONE of your personal variables taken into account.

It cannot support and guide you through your exact situation with your exact dog, nor can it assist you with troubleshooting along the way.

Dog training isn't simply done by reading a body of text and performing it. It's about specific timing, consistency, training blocks, delivery & body language. This all effects the training outcome. It's also important to remember that the internet is packed full of advice from differing perspectives and training methods, not all of it is regulated, qualified or good advice. But with AI this is the advice you're getting.

AI can't observe your training and provide you with the feedback necessary to you & your dog. It can't keep you accountable or on track. It can't tell you "that cue was given a second too late", "your dog is too far over threshold here", "I see your dog is confused by this lets try something else".

AI is also not regulated as a dog trainer is. Dog trainers have to follow regulations in order to hold their qualification - regulations that protect the welfare of your dog.

We're not denying that AI can be a great tool for giving general advice.

But dogs don’t live in general situations - they live with you in your home; they follow your routine and are accustomed to your environment.

A dog trainer is qualified to analyse:

• Your individual dog

• Your lifestyle & routine

• Your dog’s learning history

• Your dog's medical history

• The environment they’re in

• The family they're a part of

• Your handling skills and confidence

  
  

This is incredibly important because rarely two dogs facing the same training dilemma ever have the same training solution, because all of the above is likely to be completely different.

AI cannot physically see your dog. Meaning it cannot see your dogs body language, emotional state or its triggers. Which are arguably the three most important elements of dog training particularly when it comes to more in depth cases involving reactivity. It's all of these minor details that we use to create your training plan, that AI simply can't replicate.

But perhaps above all else, one of the main things AI will never be able to replace is passion. A dog trainer has spent countless hours (and dollars) studying to help your dog, they take great pride & joy in not just their work but also seeing your dog succeed in their training plan. Meanwhile, to AI you are a statistic in the system. There is no care or concern for you & your dog, and whether you win or lose.

It's also important to remember that AI can't replicate human connection & support either. A dog trainer understands the emotional weight of living with a struggling dog. We understand and sympathise with the overwhelming frustration, the guilt, confusion & exhaustion that can come with it. It's what empathetic humans do, which you'll find most dog trainers are or we wouldn't be doing this job. We care about you and your dog. AI will tell you that it does too, but please remember it is a computer. As blunt as it may sound, it doesn't care about you & your dog. Because it can't.

AI isn't useless. It can be helpful for getting general ideas, helping you to understand terminology and learning basic training concepts. But it should never replace hands-on, personalised and qualified support - especially when dealing with complex behaviours.

When it really matters in life - always engage a qualified human.