Rethinking “Good Behaviour”: An Ethical Approach to Living With Dogs

In the ethical canine community, we are increasingly being asked to reflect on what we really mean by “good behaviour”. For decades, dogs have been judged against rigid human expectations based around the convenience of our lifestyles, rather than true canine needs. An ethical approach invites us to challenge this narrative and replace it with understanding, compassion, and responsibility.

At the heart of ethical canine practice is the recognition that dogs are sentient beings with their own emotions, preferences, and coping strategies. Behaviour is not something a dog chooses in isolation; it is a form of communication. When a dog barks, growls, avoids contact, or struggles in certain environments, they are giving us valuable information about how they feel. Ethically, our role as guardians is to listen, not suppress.

Traditional training models have often focused on compliance - rewarding behaviours we like and punishing those we don’t. While this can produce short-term results, it frequently overlooks the emotional welfare of the dog. Suppressing behaviour without addressing the underlying cause can increase stress, anxiety, and even lead to escalation. Ethical practice prioritises welfare over appearance, asking not “How do I stop this?” but “Why is this happening?”

Living ethically with dogs also means accepting that not all dogs are suited to all lifestyles. The idea that every dog should be sociable, bombproof, and adaptable is unrealistic and unfair. Some dogs find busy public spaces overwhelming. Others may never enjoy close interactions with unfamiliar dogs or people. Ethical guardianship respects these boundaries rather than forcing dogs to “get used to it”.

Language matters too. When we label dogs as “stubborn”, “dominant”, or “naughty”, we risk framing normal canine behaviour as a moral failing. This not only damages our relationship with the dog but can justify harsh interventions. Ethical professionals advocate for language that reflects behaviour accurately and neutrally, keeping the focus on support rather than blame.

Ultimately, ethical canine care is about shared responsibility. It requires guardians to make informed choices, professionals to remain evidence-led and reflective, and society to move away from outdated myths about control and hierarchy. When we prioritise emotional wellbeing, autonomy, and trust, we create safer, more resilient dogs, and stronger human–canine relationships.

Ethics in the canine world is not about perfection. It is about doing better, listening more closely, and being willing to change when the evidence, and the dog in front of us, asks us to.