“Your dog cannot be its own advocate - that’s your role.”

— Scott Sheaffer

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 behavior consultant?

What’s the difference between a dog trainer and a certified behavior consultant? 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 behavior consultant is someone who has a practice specializing in canine fears, phobias, aggression, compulsive disorders and anxiety.

To become a certified behavior consultant, 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.). Just like with other professional certifications, behavior consultant certifications require the holder to earn ongoing CEUs (Continuing Education Units) and meet other professional qualifications in order to maintain the certification.

When should you consider a certified behavior consultant to help you with your dog? For issues such as:

Dog aggression
Separation anxiety
Resource guarding
Inappropriate urination
Anxiety issues
Unruliness
Destructive behaviors

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.