It is important to know the difference between a dog behaviorist and a dog trainer. Often, the terms are used interchangeably. You should instead work with a properly licensed canine behaviorist, and not someone who simply use this term to attract new clients. Unfortunately, there is no regulating board that enforces who can not call themselves a dog behaviorists, so any person who calls themselves such must be contacted to verify their credentials.
If you have a dog or puppy that has behavior issues, it is important to have both a dog trainer and a canine behaviorist working with your dog or puppy. A good trainer will have formal education in animal behavior, but may also have specialized training in dog training and behavioral problems. The same is true for a behaviorist who has formal education and training in that specific area. It is also important to remember that some behaviorists are simply dog trainers who have made a career out of helping dogs. While they may have more expertise and training, they may still not have the proper credentials.
A dog trainer should be able to demonstrate a genuine interest in canine behavior, and should have worked with both animals and people before. They should have experience working with all age groups and with a variety of people and behavioral issues. If a dog trainer does not have personal experience with behavior problems, consider hiring a behavioral consultant or a psychologist who does. It is important that the canine behaviorist work well with the dog trainer, as the two people must work together to develop an effective canine behaviorist and dog trainer treatment plan for your dog.
While there are many behaviors that can be helped with medication, therapy, or other methods, there are just as many problems that can only be helped by a canine behaviorist. Some problems are easier to address than others. That’s why it’s important to work with the right professional. Some dog trainers have years of experience, while others merely have a couple of classes under their belt. It all depends on the owner, how well the person is trained, and what the owner believes will help their dog.
Before deciding on which trainer is best for you and your dog, you need to find one with the proper credentials and insurance. Ask about their certifications and trainees’ accomplishments. If possible, visit their facilities if they are able to and get a look around. At the very least, look up reviews online on the training facilities the canine behaviorists operate at. Look for reviews written by other professional dog trainers, and ask those whom you trust about their experiences with the particular facility.
Ask the professional dog trainers for their opinions about canine behaviorists in general. These opinions can be valuable, especially if they match what you’ve been told. Ask them what qualities they are looking for in their canine behaviorists, what makes them more successful, and what the qualities of some particular dog trainers are that make them so effective. Ask them about the types of institutions they have worked at, and what kind of reputation they have for being a reputable training center.
Do your research! There are a number of great dog trainers out there. If the particular trainer you’re considering has a highly recommended website, take advantage of it. Consider asking others who have had experience with the trainer or are familiar with his or her work if they would recommend them.
Once you’ve decided which professional canine behaviorist you want to hire, be sure to set up a meeting with him or her. Get to know them well, and ask plenty of questions. When you finally choose the one you like, start to do some basic obedience training with the dog. It is always best to start with simple commands such as sit, down and stay, and then build on to more complex commands as you get to know the animal better. Remember, a good animal behaviorist is only as good as the clients he or she serves, so choose wisely!
