Artificial Intelligence (AI) is advancing at an incredible pace, reshaping industries, streamlining operations, and transforming how we interact with technology (Gartner). But as we integrate AI into more aspects of our lives, a crucial question arises: How should we manage and trust AI systems? According to Dr. Phil Laplante, the best approach might be to treat AI like a dog. This analogy, which he discusses in his article “Why We Should Treat AI Like a Dog,” provides a practical framework for understanding AI governance (Laplante). But what does that mean, and how can this analogy help us navigate the challenges of AI development and deployment?
AI, Like Dogs, Must Be Trained for Specific Tasks
Dogs excel in specialized roles—police dogs track criminals, while guide dogs assist the visually impaired. Similarly, AI must be trained for defined purposes; expecting it to perform outside its scope leads to failure.
AI Requires Continuous Supervision
Even well-trained dogs need ongoing reinforcement and oversight. AI, too, must be monitored, updated, and refined to prevent errors and bias. Trusting AI without regular checks can be risky.
AI Should Operate Under “Trust but Verify”
Dogs, no matter how trained, can act unpredictably. Responsible owners supervise them. AI should be treated the same way—organizations must validate AI outputs and maintain human oversight, especially in critical applications.
AI, Like a Dog, Needs Boundaries
Unsupervised dogs can cause harm; AI is no different. Without governance, AI can reinforce biases or be exploited. Regulatory frameworks and ethical guidelines ensure AI remains safe and accountable.
Final Thoughts
As Dr. Laplante argues, treating AI like a dog offers a practical governance model. Training, supervision, and ethical oversight help us harness AI’s power while minimizing risks. AI should be a trusted companion—not an unpredictable force.
Works Cited
Gartner. “Artificial Intelligence (AI).” Gartner, 2024, www.gartner.com/en/topics/artificial-intelligence. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.
Laplante, Phil. “Why We Should Treat AI Like a Dog.” IEEE Xplore, 2024, ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10841892. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.
