10 Tips to Find a Good Canine Behaviourist

A canine behaviourist is a dog training expert whose skills extend beyond everyday training to address unusual, problematic, or aggressive behaviours with the goal of resolving them. These specialists offer a valuable service to caring dog owners, helping to understand the root causes of issues and suggesting tailored approaches to modify behaviour.

Choosing the right behaviourist is crucial. Different behaviourists employ various methods and philosophies, and not all will approach a problem the same way. If you’re considering expert help for a dog's behaviour, follow our top ten tips to find a reliable and effective canine behaviourist.

1. Check Qualifications and Experience

While formal qualifications such as the Advanced Diploma in Canine Behaviour Management exist, in the UK, there is no legal requirement to hold specific qualifications to offer behavioural services. Look for professionals affiliated with recognised organisations like the UK Registry of Canine Behaviourists, which uphold high standards. However, do not discount experienced behaviourists with good reputations and positive client feedback, even if they lack formal diplomas.

2. Choose a Behaviourist Offering Per-Session Work

Problems can vary in complexity, and behaviourists often need multiple sessions over weeks or months. Many offer discounted packages for ongoing courses. For your initial assessment and early sessions, seek a behaviourist willing to work on a per-session basis. This allows you to evaluate whether their approach suits your needs before committing financially.

3. Find a Behaviourist with Experience in Your Specific Issue

Whatever the problem — be it aggression, anxiety, or unusual habits — an experienced behaviourist should have encountered it before. They should confidently explain their approach and why it will be effective in your dog’s case, demonstrating authority and empathy.

4. Understand Guarantees and Caveats

Behaviourists rarely offer firm success guarantees due to many variables, including your participation as the owner. However, a professional will outline clear expectations for success, the steps they will take, and their contingency plans if their method proves ineffective, ensuring transparent communication from the outset.

5. Inquire About Training Approaches Used

Positive reinforcement methods have been the standard for more than a decade, promoting humane and effective behaviour change. Confirm your behaviourist’s stance on training methods, ensuring they avoid punitive or aversive techniques, which can harm your dog and undermine progress.

6. Confirm Availability of Necessary Equipment and Safe Training Venues

A professional behaviourist will bring appropriate training aids such as special leads and harnesses in various sizes, ensuring no undue cost or equipment burden falls on you during sessions. They should also have access to safe, suitable venues if off-site training is necessary.

7. Observe Your Dog’s Interaction with the Behaviourist

During the initial assessment, the behaviourist should clearly establish themselves as a calm leader, gaining your dog’s respect and attention. Your dog’s willingness to work with the behaviourist — even if training is challenging — is a positive sign of rapport and potential success.

8. Evaluate the Behaviourist’s Communication and Courtesy

Effective training depends on clear communication between you and the behaviourist. They should be courteous, approachable, and willing to explain progress in understandable terms, providing regular feedback and adjustments throughout the process.

9. Seek References or Observe Sessions

Obtaining independent references from past clients can give insight into the behaviourist’s effectiveness and professionalism. Although observing a session may not always be feasible, testimonials and direct client discussions can help gauge reputation.

10. Consider Costs Carefully

Prices for behaviourist sessions vary greatly depending on location and service scope. Avoid the cheapest options with unclear qualifications, but also consider affordability. Generally, mid-priced behaviourists who provide clear credentials and good reviews offer the best value.

By following these steps, you can find a reputable behaviourist who will assist you in ethically and effectively improving your dog’s behaviour, promoting a happy and harmonious relationship.