Professional Standards and Commitment to Animal Welfare

At K9 Manhunt & ScentWork Scotland, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, compassion, and responsibility in all aspects of our dog training services. Our Code of Conduct serves to guide our actions and decisions, ensuring the wellbeing of every dog we work with, while also supporting and educating dog owners to be confident, consistent leaders.
We are proud to align our practices with the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, forming the foundation of our ethical approach.

1. Professionalism and Integrity

• We will treat all clients, their dogs, and fellow professionals with respect, courtesy, and honesty.

• We will never knowingly mislead clients regarding a dog’s progress or potential.

• We will operate within the boundaries of our knowledge and experience and will refer to qualified professionals (e.g., veterinary behaviourists or physiotherapists) where appropriate.

• We are committed to continuing professional development and evidence-based training.

2. Dog Welfare and the Five Freedoms

We recognise that every dog has individual needs and deserves to be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect. Our training practices strictly adhere to the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare:

1. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst

We ensure all dogs in our care have access to fresh water and receive appropriate nutrition during training sessions. Food is used as reinforcement where beneficial and never withheld as a form of punishment.

2. Freedom from Discomfort

We provide dogs with safe, clean, and comfortable environments during training. We respect each dog’s physical limitations and make appropriate adjustments to prevent pain or distress.

3. Freedom from Pain, Injury, or Disease

We never use aversive tools or harsh methods that may cause harm. All training is carried out using techniques designed to build trust, confidence, and resilience. Any signs of illness or injury are addressed promptly and referred to the owner or a veterinary professional.

4. Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour

We allow dogs to engage in species-specific behaviours such as sniffing, playing, and exploring, and incorporate these into our training programmes. We recognise the importance of rest, decompression, and enrichment.

5. Freedom from Fear and Distress

We strive to create a calm, structured training environment that avoids unnecessary stress. Training is designed to build confidence and clarity for both dog and handler.

3. Owner Education and Empowerment

• We recognise that 90% of the training is for the owner, not just the dog.

• We will educate clients on leadership, consistency, structure, and how to read and respond to their dog’s body language.

• We promote realistic expectations and encourage long-term commitment to training and lifestyle changes.

4. Respect for the Dog–Handler Relationship

• We aim to build strong, reliable, and respectful relationships between dogs and their handlers.

• We discourage overindulgence, over-pampering, or anthropomorphising dogs in ways that may hinder progress or increase anxiety.

• We promote trust, leadership, and mutual understanding in every interaction.

5. Confidentiality and Data Protection

• All client details, case information, and training records are kept confidential and stored securely in accordance with current data protection laws.

6. Anti-Discrimination Policy

We welcome clients and dogs of all backgrounds. Discrimination of any kind, be it based on breed, disability, gender, race, religion, or personal beliefs, will not be tolerated.

7. Health and Safety

• We conduct dynamic risk assessments during all training sessions.

• Dogs will only be worked within their physical capabilities and health status.

• Clients must inform us of any known behavioural or medical conditions prior to training.

8. Breach of Conduct

Any breach of this Code of Conduct by staff, volunteers, or clients may result in termination of services or referral to an appropriate regulatory body.

Business Contact Details

K9 Manhunt & ScentWork Scotland

Email: info@k9manhuntscotland.co.uk

Telephone: 07803 925099