New animal welfare code for dog trainers prioritises positive reinforcement, less aversive methods

Singapore's Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) has introduced a new rulebook for dog trainers that emphasizes humane, positive reinforcement-based training methods. This is part of an overall effort to raise the standards of animal care across the pet industry.

The new code sets minimum animal welfare standards for dog trainers, prioritizing the least intrusive, minimally aversive (LIMA) approach. While aversive tools like electronic shock collars are not outright banned, trainers are now mandated to systematically use less intrusive, positive reinforcement techniques before resorting to harsher interventions.

The revised standards for dog trainers align with existing codes for pet groomers, which have been in place since 2016. These updates come in response to several high-profile incidents involving the mistreatment of animals in the past few years, including cases of dogs left unattended and allegedly subjected to aversive training methods.

Under the new code, trainers are required to adopt the LIMA approach, making positive reinforcement the foundation of any behavior modification plan. They must systematically work through a hierarchy of procedures, starting with addressing health, nutritional, and physical factors, and only considering more intrusive methods as a last resort, preferably under professional guidance.

Trainers are also expected to minimize and replace aversive strategies within their behavior modification plans, including those previously used by owners. The AVS will begin reviewing the code of animal welfare for pet owners in 2027, recognizing that pet care begins at home with pet owners.