Dog Trainer vs. Dog Behavior Consultant: Which Does Your Dog Need?
Finding the right professional can feel overwhelming when you’re looking for help with your dog’s training or behavior. Both dog trainers and behavior consultants offer valuable expertise, but their skills are geared toward different goals. I often get questions about which type of professional suits particular challenges. Let’s break down the difference between a dog trainer and a dog behavior consultant to help you make the right choice for your pup.
What Does a Dog Trainer Do?
Dog trainers specialize in teaching foundational skills and behaviors that help dogs become well-mannered companions. They focus on teaching cues like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” and work on leash manners, house training, and socialization. For many dog owners, a trainer is the right choice when they want to work on these everyday skills. Trainers are also essential for puppies, setting them up for success with basic obedience and good habits.
Most trainers use positive reinforcement, which studies have shown to be the most effective and humane way to teach new skills. The American Kennel Club (AKC) and other organizations advocate for this approach, as it fosters a trusting relationship between you and your dog while encouraging a willingness to learn.
What Does a Dog Behavior Consultant Do?
Dog behavior consultants like myself have training beyond basic behaviors, focusing on complex behavior issues such as aggression, anxiety, fear, and phobias. Behavior consultants address the visible behaviors and look into underlying factors like genetics, environment, past experiences, and emotional state. Our job is to assess the whole picture and create a tailored plan to modify these behaviors over time. You might say we’re Doggie Detectives!
Certified behavior consultants adhere to the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) principles, emphasizing positive and humane methods. We also follow strict certification standards for the most current, science-based techniques.
How to Decide Which is Right for Your Dog
So, how do you decide between a trainer and a behavior consultant? Here are some scenarios to help you make the best choice:
When to Choose a Dog Trainer
If you want to improve basic manners, such as polite greetings, leash etiquette, or coming when called, a trainer is your best bet. Trainers can also work on puppy socialization, helping young dogs become confident and well-adjusted.
When to Choose a Dog Behavior Consultant
If your dog shows signs of anxiety, aggression, resource guarding, or compulsive behaviors, a behavior consultant is more appropriate. Consultants work with issues rooted in emotion and experience, requiring a deeper approach than standard obedience training. For example, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) has published guidelines against using aversive methods for these issues, as it can worsen anxiety and aggression.
Conclusion
Choosing the right professional is vital in helping your dog achieve their full potential. Trainers and behavior consultants bring valuable skills to the table, but their focus areas differ. If you’re unsure which type of help is best for your dog, I’m happy to discuss your goals and recommend the best approach.
