Running a dog training business involves more than just training dogs; it requires navigating the complexities of working with humans. While dogs can be challenging, humans often present the bigger challenge. In this blog post, I’ll share my experiences and insights into why managing human relationships can be more difficult than training dogs.

My Recent Experiences

Non-payment: One of the most common issues I face is non-payment. I’ve had only two clients who failed to pay for services rendered, despite multiple reminders and follow-ups. Giving clients multiple chances to pay is important, but it must be done in a reasonable and timely manner. I too have bills to pay, and those I owe money can only extend so much time for me to settle my debts.

Abusive Behaviour: I’ve had only two clients who became abusive and threatening when I requested proof of payment. While I can understand if a client’s behaviour stems from trauma (since I work with vulnerable individuals), this does not excuse abusive actions. Client’s breaching our agreement, makes the situation extremely stressful. Dealing with such behaviour is not just a professional challenge but also takes an emotional toll. It disrupts the trust and respect that are crucial to any client relationship, making it harder to focus on delivering the quality service I am committed to providing.

Dealing with These Situations

I am grateful that I followed a friend’s advice to “CYA” (cover your ass) because evidence will always outweigh testimony when matters have to be escalated. Here is what I did to handle these challenging situations:

• Document Everything: Keeping detailed records of all communications and agreements is crucial.
• Service Agreements: In my company, clients must fill out a service agreement before training begins. This sets clear expectations and provides a reference in case of disputes.
• Email Communication: I prefer to communicate via emails to keep a documented trail and ensure accountability on both sides.
• Professional Follow-Up: I send reminders for unpaid invoices and outline any late fees or consequences as per our terms.
• Communicate Clearly: When issues arise, I politely remind the client of our agreement and their obligations twice, and in the meantime stop training.
• Cutting my loses: If a client refuses to pay then I will not train that client again and the client goes on our blacklist.

Addressing Bullying Behaviour

Bullying behaviour from clients, especially when following up on payments, will not be tolerated. Here’s how I address such situations:

• Remain Calm and Professional: I am only human and can only take so much abusive behaviour. Recently, I dealt with the above-mentioned clients while supporting my mother as she cared for my dying grandmother. On 23 June 2024, she passed away, and that same week I received multiple abusive emails from one client and total silence from the other. That was the last straw. I have been merciful and gracious to their circumstances, but it is very hard to remain respectful as a Christian during such times, and I think I failed sadly.
• Protect Your Team: My staff was amazing at supporting me through this difficult time, but I am very protective of them when others are being unfair and bullying them, so I stepped in to shield them from such behaviour.

The Human Side of Business Ownership

As business owners, we are human, and we have bills to pay. When clients do not uphold their side of the agreement, it impacts our livelihood and the services we can provide to others. It is essential to recognize that while we strive to maintain professionalism and fairness, we are also managing our own lives and responsibilities.

A Hard Lesson Learned

The fact is, sometimes I fail. I sometimes fail to keep my clients accountable, and as a result, the quality of service and trust with other clients may be compromised. This is a hard lesson to learn, but it is one that I take seriously as I strive to improve and uphold the standards of my business.

Why Working with Humans is Harder Than Working with Dogs

Training dogs is often simpler than managing human relationships. Dogs are straightforward, loyal, and eager to learn, while human interactions can be unpredictable and challenging. Despite these difficulties, I am committed to providing the best service and maintaining a fair, respectful environment for everyone.

I encourage all my clients to communicate openly and respectfully, ensuring that we work together to maintain a positive and productive relationship. Let’s continue to work together fairly and respectfully.