What's the difference between a dog trainer and a dog behaviorist?
Scott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA
© Scott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, USA Dog Behavior, LLC
“Your dog cannot be its own advocate - that’s your role.”
Does your dog have behavior issues you want to address but don’t know where to start? Should you seek the assistance of a certified dog behaviorist?
What’s the difference between a dog trainer and a certified dog behaviorist? According to industry standards, a dog trainer is an individual who has a practice focused on basic obedience, house manners, service dog training, nuisance behaviors (e.g., digging, chewing, jumping on people, etc.), scent work, agility, search and rescue, and trick dog training. On the other hand, a certified dog behavorist is someone who has a practice specializing in canine fears, phobias, aggression, compulsive disorders and anxiety.
To become a certified dog behaviorist, a certifying organization requires the demonstration of specific professional skills, knowledge and experience (e.g., verified experience, successfully passing a rigorous exam, professional recommendations, etc.).
When should you consider a certified dog behaviorist to help you with your dog? For issues such as:
Whoever you select to help you with your dog, your most important responsibility is to ensure the person you choose is an experienced and competent professional who uses humane and science-based methods with your dog.
Your dog cannot be its own advocate - that’s your role.