I noticed the dog was pulling, so I told the owner, “You should try a prong collar.” She did. She used it wrong. The dog became leash-reactive and bit her hand. She is suing me for “Negligent Instruction,” claiming I presented myself as an expert trainer when I’m just a walker.
Key Takeaways
- Scope of Practice: Insurance policies have codes. “Pet Sitting/Walking” (Code 96601) is different from “Dog Training.”
- Professional Services Exclusion: Standard GL covers accidents (trips). It excludes “Professional Advice” unless you have Errors & Omissions (E&O).
- Training vs. Walking: If you give advice, you are acting as a trainer. If your insurance is only for walking, you are operating outside your class code. Coverage denied.
- Bodily Injury to Owner: Liability usually excludes injuries to the insured, but covers third parties. Since the owner is not the insured (you are), she can sue you.
The “Why” (The Trap): The “Expert” Assumption
When you give advice, you assume a “Duty of Care.”
If you aren’t a certified trainer, and you recommend aversive tools (prongs/e-collars) that cause injury, you are liable for giving bad professional advice.
The Exclusion: “This policy does not apply to ‘bodily injury’ arising out of the rendering of or failure to render professional services.”
[IMAGE: Graphic showing “Walker Insurance” circle vs “Trainer Insurance” circle – No Overlap]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I asked, “I gave bad training advice. Am I covered?”
1. PCI
- The Answer: “Did you select ‘Dog Training’ on your application?”
- If Yes: Covered (under E&O).
- If No: Denied. You misrepresented your business activities.
2. Business Insurers (BIC)
- The Answer: They require trainers to have certification (CPDT-KA, etc.) to get the training endorsement. If you are just a walker giving tips, they might defend you but will likely drop you afterwards.
Comparison Table
| Activity | Walker Insurance | Trainer Insurance |
| Walking the dog | Covered | Covered |
| Teaching “Sit” | Covered (Incidental) | Covered |
| Recommending Behavior Modification | Denied | Covered |
| Aggression Cases | Denied | Covered (with limits) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Zip It: Unless you are paid to train, do not give behavioral advice. Say: “I recommend you hire a certified trainer.”
- Update Your Policy: If you do want to train, call your broker and add the “Dog Training” class code. It costs about $100 more per year.
- Waivers: Your contract should state: “Sitter is not a trainer. Any advice given is anecdotal.”
- Referrals: Build a relationship with a local CPDT trainer. Refer clients to them. It’s safer and makes you look professional.
FAQ
Can I use a clicker?
Using positive reinforcement to manage a dog on a walk is fine. Prescribing a “behavior plan” to the owner is where you cross the line.
What if the owner asked me?
“What would you do?” is a trap. Answer: “I use a harness for safety, but for behavior issues, you need a pro.”
Is training insurance expensive?
It’s slightly more, but it often excludes “Protection/Bite Work.” Basic obedience liability is affordable.