Selecting the Right Dog Behavior and Training Professional for You
We often field questions from families on the topic of training philosophy, concepts, methods, and what to look for when selecting a dog behavior or training professional. This can be confusing territory to navigate, and many families may feel overwhelmed in the process. This is entirely understandable, especially given the dog training and behavior industry is largely unregulated and very much “buyer beware”. Here are some tips that can help you find the right dog professional for you!
What Qualities to Look For in a Professional
Not all professionals have similar expertise, and there are different specialty areas, or niches, that a dog behavior consultant or trainer may specialize in; i.e. dog sports (of which there are many!), formal obedience or skill-building, trick training, gun dog training, multi-animal households, cooperative care and husbandry, aggression/bite cases, leash reactivity, separation anxiety, Family Dog Mediation, group classes v.s. private sessions, veterinary behavior — and the list goes on! The level of expertise within a niche can also vary greatly depending on the individual’s background, certifications (if any at all), education, and unique experiences. And, one’s expertise often spans several areas of interest! For the sake of brevity, we’ll mainly be focusing on tips to help you select a competent and qualified professional, rather than diving into the nuance or aspects within these niches; or various certification and credentialing programs.
We recommend searching for a professional who:
Maintains certification and credentials- In an unregulated industry, certification can be one way to help clients find a trainer/consultant who values and maintains a certain level of competency, professionalism, and validation. As an aside: most companies who offer training and behavior consulting services have independent contractors, others may have employees — it’s very common to see a mix of folks with different certifications/credentials. Additionally, not all trainers have behavior consulting experience, although the reverse is typically the case. Certification(s) is not a guarantee, in practical terms, however, it is a starting point, and a reflection of a professional’s commitment to education and learning. Here are a several independent certifying agencies with online directories of their certificants or licensees :
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
*Some of the above maintain their own curriculum/program; all have continuing ed, recertification, or similar requirements
Note: for a higher level of professional expertise involving evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of both medical and behavioral conditions look for a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.
Asks questions, welcomes feedback, and leads with empathy - Look for a qualified professional who is transparent and open to address your questions, concerns, and feedback— who will be understanding of your situation and lead with empathy. If you’re in any way unclear of the information you’ve been provided, then ask for more clarification. If you're unsatisfied with a response, you can always find another professional better suited to your needs.
Does NOT offer guarantees to fix your dog’s behavior - An animal's behavior is influenced by their emotions, mood; and various other genetic, cognitive, social, environmental, and physiological factors (their L.E.G.S.®). Behavior is fluid and changes based on all the dog’s internal and external conditions. It would be unethical for a professional to offer a guarantee to "fix" or "cure" a behavior. We recommend steering clear of services that offer guarantees. On the contrary, look for a professional who asks “WHY” questions, and proceeds with caution when it comes to changing your dog’s behavior. Ex: “wait, are we sure we need to/should change this behavior?” The Family Dog Mediation and L.E.G.S. approach really excels in this area— understanding the whole picture of the animal in front of us!
Promotes and utilizes reward-based methods - to support learning, choice and agency, and the well-being of dogs and families. A professional must minimize the use of aversives, and always recognize how conditions are impacting an individual’s behavior and their learning. They need to set your dog (and you) up for success, and give the option to ‘opt out’ of an overly stressful event. Learn more by reading the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) updated position statement on humane dog training.
Is focused on helping your dog feel better, and relationship building - A relationship centered on safety and trust is essential for well-being— a ‘life worth living’! The most effective, humane professionals understand that behavior is an expression of a animal’s complex needs, including their emotions. It’s communication. They’ll be talking to you more about understanding your dog - how to build trust, and support their needs and learning. And they’ll be empathetic and sensitive to your needs and learning too!
What Specific Questions to Ask
‘We don’t know, what we don’t know.’ It may be daunting to embark on this search. “How do I know if the information I’m being provided is accurate”, you may ask? Amen! There sure are some smooth-talking folks out there. I’ve been duped myself by a few over the years. I’d first look for the qualities described above— should be plastered on their website and in their communication. If needed, ask more questions and see how their answers line up. You didn’t get this far in life without having a keen intuition— best advice is to follow your gut!
Some additional questions, or conversation starters for you:
What’s your philosophy/approach when it comes to working with families and dogs?
What can we do if my dog’s behavior isn’t improving with the recommendations given?
Selecting the right dog behavior and training professional for you doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are many excellent dog pros out there, who will support you and your dog’s well-being. It may take some time to find the right match for you and your dog, and that’s normal. You’ll get there! <3
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