The Humble Art of Staying Teachable

Why the best dog trainers never stop learning 

Once we qualify as dog trainers or behaviourists—certificate in hand, professional title achieved—it can be tempting to feel like the learning part is over. But what if the real work begins there?

In this blog, I’m reflecting on why staying teachable is one of the most powerful skills we can cultivate in the dog world—and how embracing feedback, community, and humility helps us serve dogs and guardians far better than credentials alone.

Supervision Isn’t Shameful—It’s Strength

It takes real vulnerability to sit in a supervision session and reflect on what went well… and what didn’t. It’s not easy to explore areas where we may need more support. But if we don’t make space for this kind of growth, it’s far too easy to slip into a sense of grandiosity and lose sight of the very ethics and welfare frameworks we’re meant to uphold.

Ethical memberships can help hold us to account, but they only work if we honour their mission statements in practice—not just on paper.

Asking for Help Isn’t a Weakness

There is absolutely no shame in asking questions. Whether it’s about a training method, a case study, or simply venting in a peer group, asking for input doesn’t make you less skilled. In fact, it shows you’re invested in doing your best.

Sometimes, feedback from others might feel like a critique, especially when it comes after sharing a success. But more often than not, it’s coming from a place of care. Fellow professionals—particularly those with niche experience or more years in the field—are offering you a boost, not a blow.

Certification Is the Start, Not the End

Most of us have had to demonstrate skills in order to gain our qualifications: sending in videos, doing live assessments, working under mentorship. That foundation matters—but it doesn’t mean we’re finished.

When working with puppies, rescue dogs, or new clients, it’s vital to revisit our basics. If we skip over foundational work like teaching a “down” or reinforcing calm leash walking, we risk confusing the dog and alienating the guardian. Mastering the basics isn’t just for beginners—it’s what enables the more complex behaviours to succeed.

Tailoring to Your Audience Matters

I was recently told I should reuse some of my existing training tutorials for my new programme, The Little Trainers League. And while I appreciated the suggestion, I knew I couldn’t do it—not because the content wasn’t good, but because it wasn’t built for children.

My previous work was aimed at teens and adults. But this new programme is for children aged 5 to 12. Yes, older children might grasp it with adult support—but there’s something deeply powerful about a child independently learning a skill, building a connection with their dog, and experiencing that moment of “I did it!”

That’s the spark I want to ignite.

The Joy of Childhood Bonding

One of the happiest experiences of my childhood was teaching my dog and being taught by her. She was my best friend. We had long days filled with exploration and quiet companionship. She helped me feel safe. She was joy.

And in today’s screen-saturated world, that kind of bond is something I want to help rebuild—for children and adults alike. That’s what drives me. Not just teaching skills, but sharing in the magic of the relationship itself.

Defensiveness Can Block the Bigger Picture

If we shut down when seasoned professionals offer insights, we risk missing a bigger opportunity. Sometimes the missing piece of a puzzle is just one suggestion away—something that could change not just a behaviour, but a dog’s emotional and physical wellbeing too.

We all have areas we shine in. Maybe you’re brilliant with separation anxiety, or incredible with fearful rescues. Sharing those strengths is beautiful. But the most powerful growth often comes not from self-promotion, but from community—when your name is passed along with confidence and trust.

There’s no better feeling than being known as the person for that specific challenge. And that recognition often comes not from social media, but word of mouth. It’s authentic, and it’s earned.

Staying Humble, Staying Curious

I want to keep learning—from dogs, from guardians, from colleagues. I want to adapt with science, stay open to evolving practice, and be willing to update my approach when new data supports it. That’s not failure—that’s progress.

Industries change. Research grows. When companies evolve their protocols, they aren’t admitting defeat—they’re showing commitment to best practice. The same is true for us.

“The expert in anything was once a beginner.”

— Helen Hayes

So let’s keep being students of the dogs in front of us. Let’s support each other, share freely, and build each other up. Our profession—and the dogs we serve—deserve nothing less.

Let’s Talk…

Have you ever received a piece of feedback that shaped how you work with dogs or clients? Or do you have a childhood memory of connecting with an animal that shaped who you are?

Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your story.

And if you enjoyed this post, consider subscribing or sharing it with a colleague who might need this gentle reminder today. 

🖋 About the Author:

Tasha Attwood is a force-free, ethical behaviourist and trainer specialising in holistic canine care, collaborative handling, enrichment, and emotional resilience. Founder of Mutts & Mischief, they are also the author of multiple books, including Calm Canines, Paws on Enrichment, Connected Care, and Zero to Hero.

The Feral Behaviourist 

Personal sign off; Feral by nature, ethical by choice, force-free always.

Neurodivergent dog behaviourist writing about force-free training, emotional resilience, and life as an autistic professional. Resources, reflections, and feral honesty from someone who trains with heart—not control.

Close-up of a German Shepherd with a person in a red hoodie smiling beside them outdoors, representing the bond between guardians and dogs in holistic, force-free training with Mutts & Mischief.