Why We Must Avoid Gaslighting in the Dog WorldGaslighting—whether intentional or not—erodes trust, damages confidence, and drives good people away from our community. As competitors, we have a responsibility to build a supportive culture that values growth, sportsmanship, and respect.
Here’s Why It Matters:
1. We were all new once.
No one enters the ring knowing it all. Undermining new exhibitors through manipulation or condescension discourages learning and leads to burnout before they even have a chance to grow.
2. It weakens the sport.
When talented, passionate newcomers leave because they feel unwelcome or confused, we lose future breeders, handlers, judges, and mentors. Gatekeeping doesn’t preserve a breed—it isolates it.
3. It creates fear, not growth.
Gaslighting causes people to second-guess their instincts, fear asking questions, and avoid new experiences. Healthy competition thrives on confidence, not control.
4. We set the tone for the next generation.
The way we speak to and about others—especially juniors, novices, or returners—models what’s acceptable. Let’s be the reason someone stays in the sport, not why they leave.
Instead, Let’s:
Offer help, not judgment
Give constructive, kind feedback
Encourage questions, curiosity, and independence
Celebrate progress—not just ribbons
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