“In the UK, dog training is an unregulated industry. Anyone can be a dog trainer, or behaviourist without knowledge, experience or qualifications. .” - Sam Hughes

Introduction:

In the UK, dog training is an unregulated industry. Anyone can be a dog trainer, or behaviourist without knowledge, experience or qualifications. 

An inexperienced trainer could be detrimental to your dog’s behaviour and well-being if the trainer implements unsafe methods and practices when training your dog. 

There are differences between a dog trainer and a dog behaviourist.  This guide will help you decide whether you need a dog trainer or a behaviourist.

Is A Dog Behaviourist The Same As A Dog Trainer?

A qualified dog trainer can give you the skills and knowledge to train your dog in different exercises using the learning theory, reinforcing and developing exercises such as recall, loose lead walking, and complex fun tricks. They teach you, the owner to implement and reward these exercises so the dog learns to repeat them in different circumstances.

A qualified dog behaviourist has in-depth knowledge of the psychology of a dog's mind, they will look within, addressing why the dog behaves that way, and change it, so the dog doesn’t need to act that way. Working on the behaviours that you see does not address the underlying issue causing the behaviour. This is a key difference in dog training and behaviour work.

 I have studied both pet dog training courses with APDT UK, Absolute Dogs and CPD courses and four different behaviour courses to a level 6 with the British College of Canine Studies and the ISCP and Behavet DR Tom Mitchell (which is not a recognised qualification but excellent non the less). 

The dog training courses and behaviour courses are very different, I am the trainer I am today because I have studied many courses from different providers, giving me a wide spectrum of knowledge. Studying different courses has taught me a lot about behaviour, no course was the same and covered different perspectives of how emotions affect behaviour, behaviour modification and effective behaviour change.

A behaviourist should have extensive qualifications in dog behaviour, understand the dog’s brain and associated physiological effects that affect behaviour, and be knowledgeable in behaviour modification, and different training methods and how to demonstrate this to dog owners.

There is a fine line between dog training and behaviour work, many dog trainers will possess the skills and experience to undertake minor behavioural issues in dogs effectively. 

A behaviourist and a certified dog trainer should promote force-free, positive reinforcement methods for training dogs.  

Do I Need A Dog Trainer Or Behaviourist?

Deciding whether your dog needs a dog behaviourist or a dog trainer depends on specific issues you are facing with your dog. 

Here’s a guide to help you determine which professional to seek:

Dog Trainer 

A dog trainer is suitable if your dog needs help with the following:

• Basic obedience training: Teaching cues such as sit, stay, come, loose lead walking, recall and down.

• Advanced exercises: More complex commands and behaviours.

• Puppy training: Housebreaking, socialisation, and basic manners.

• Lead walking: Walking nicely on a lead without pulling.

• Trick training: Learning fun tricks like shaking, rolling over, or playing dead.

Dog Behaviourist

A dog behaviourist is suitable if your dog has more serious behavioural issues, such as:

• Reactivity: Toward people, other dogs, or animals.

• Severe anxiety: Separation anxiety, fear of specific stimuli, or generalised anxiety.

• Obsessive-compulsive behaviours: Excessive licking, tail chasing, or repetitive actions.

• Phobias: Fear of loud noises, certain environments, or specific objects.

• Resource guarding: Aggressively protecting food, toys, or spaces.

A behaviourist will carry out a behavioural assessment with you and your dog to identify why your dog is behaving that way and a targeted plan to effectively change behaviour.

Dog Behaviourist Qualifications UK

There are no requirements for formal qualifications in the UK.
A clinical behaviourist will have a university degree. They usually work with cases referred by a vet and can work with other animals not just dogs.

A behaviourist should have either an MSc degree or level five or six studies as these are university degree equivalent courses. 

Take a look at their website and social media content, do they talk about reward-based training, long-term programs and discussions that behaviour change takes time? If they talk about not using rewards or food, or promise quick fixes stay away. 

Don’t be afraid to make contact and ask for qualifications and experience. A good behaviourist will want to speak with you before you book with them

Combination of Both

In some cases, it may be beneficial to work with both a dog trainer and a behaviourist. A trainer can help implement behaviour modification plans created by a behaviourist.

How to Choose A Behaviourist 

1. Identify the Problem: Clearly define the issues your dog is experiencing.

2. Consult Your Veterinarian: They can rule out medical causes for behavioural issues and may recommend a professional.

3. Research Professionals: Look for certified trainers and behaviourists with good reputations and relevant experience and only use kind, force-free methods of training dogs. 

4. Get Referrals: Ask for recommendations from your vet, local pet stores, or other pet owners.

Is it better to train your dog yourself or with a trainer?

You can choose to train your dog yourself, however, depending on the behavioural issue, would determine the success that you will have.

Behavioural issues in dogs won’t improve unless the root causes are identified. Inexperienced dog trainers and behaviourists might try to stop the behaviour without understanding why the dog is behaving that way. If the underlying cause is not addressed, the behaviour will likely continue or may become more problematic and risky.

Does my dog need to see a behaviourist?

It can be difficult to know if your dog needs specific behavioural intervention. There can be a fine line between the skills of a dog trainer and the experience and understanding of psychology that a behaviourist has

The best way to know is to contact a behaviourist and book a free call to discuss the behaviour. They will be able to advise you on what work needs to be done to improve your dog's behaviour. 

Many behaviourists offer a free discovery call to discuss your concerns. 

If you would like to book a call and discuss your dog's behaviour, I can give more specific advice and specific advice on the work that is needed for effective behaviour change.