Do you need a trainer or a behaviorist?

Many dog trainers have adopted variations of the title Canine Behaviorist. These trainers purport to have a deeper understanding of the causes of behavior problems. While some may have the expertise they claim, the title can be misleading because anyone can call themselves a behaviorist.

The Animal Behavior Society offers two certifications with extensive educational requirements: Associate Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (ACAAB) and Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB). While a certified behaviorist might be helpful in some situations, most people just need a good dog trainer, and one with a master’s degree is not necessarily better than one without.

No matter what they call themselves, a trainer with solid teaching skills and a basic understanding of dog behavior and learning theory will be able to help you train your dog and address most behavior issues. For severe problems, you will need a more experienced trainer, but a title does not guarantee expertise. Likewise, while you may “get what you pay for,” do not assume higher fees will equal better results. A great trainer is expensive, but an expensive trainer is not necessarily great.

Some behavior problems are caused by medical conditions, chemical imbalances, or other issues that require veterinary intervention. In these situations, seek the advice of a veterinarian with experience treating behavior problems or consult a veterinary behaviorist (Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists). While the medications and extensive behavior therapy they typically recommend are necessary for some dogs, most will benefit from basic obedience training and simple counterconditioning protocols. Start with a competent dog trainer and a wholehearted commitment to training your dog.