Choosing a dog behaviourist or dog trainer
So you've finally made the decision to add a furry companion to your life? Welcome to the good life!
Whether you have chosen to rescue or buy a puppy - the challenges ahead can be tough!
We all expect a few teething problems, but now your cute bundle of joy is driving you mad - pulling on the lead, jumping up at visitors (which was cute when he was a tiny puppy, not now he's a 40kg heap of fluff), and many more - does this sound familiar?
Thankfully there are a few options open to you. The three options you have are; 1:1 puppy training, group training classes or a behavioural consultation, but how do you know which you need?
Well let's first look at whether you have a training or behaviour issue. Sometimes it can be a combination of the two (but we offer both!)
Problems such as; House training, Recall, Jumping Up, Loose Lead Walking* usually fall under training.
Problems such as; Separation Anxiety, Resource Guarding, Dog Aggression fall under behavioural issues. Rather than just teaching a new behaviour, the underlying causes needed to be examined in order to treat these.
It's not always clear which it falls under, but if you are unsure - contact a trusted professional who will be able to advise.
Finding a professional
So you now have an understanding of the difference between behavioural and training issues - but how do you find a professional?
The dog training and behaviour industry is currently unregulated, meaning anyone can claim to be a trainer or behaviourist. We recommend you look for someone who has accreditation from either ABTC (The Animal Behaviour Training Council, TCBTS (The Canine Behaviour and Training Society) IMDT (Institute of Modern Dog Trainers) or ISCP as a minimum, but the more professional courses they have done the better.
There is also the Pet Professional Network who are working hard to stamp out unethical business practices and to maintain the highest standard of animal welfare.
In Line Canine UK have qualifications from BCCS (British College of Canine Studies) as well as IMDT and are currently working on an ABTC and TCBTS recognised qualification and also the seal of approval from the Pet Professional Network and are continually developing their knowledge and experience.
Also look for someone with experience - as it's all well and good knowing the theory, but no good if you can't apply it!
Training Methods
As previously mentioned, the industry is unregulated which means there are many trainers and behaviourists our there using unethical methods.
Look for someone who specialises in force-free, reward based (R+) training. Steer well away from anyway that uses any aversive methods such as prong collars, pet corrector sprays, choke chains or slip leads. Although these give quick results - they not only cause your dog pain, but actually increase their fear which can in turn eventually exacerbate the problem.
The only form of punishment that is acceptable is Negative Punishment - examples of this include a time out, or not getting attention.
Be wary of anyone that mentions dominance, being submissive or using the term 'pack leader' - this is a very old and unproven theory.
Most trainers and behaviourists should be happy to answer any questions you have prior to their consultation and if you are unsure of anything - ask! You know what is best for your dog.
So quick recap;
- Force free/R+ based only
- Check for qualifications
- Ask questions
- No mention of submissive/dominance
Remember - you get out what you put in - there are no quick fixes unfortunately!
In Line Canine UK offers both training and behavioural consultations - and tick all of the above boxes.
Prices can be found on our website or please drop us a line for any more information.
If I do not offer a service you are needing - please message me and I will refer you on to someone appropriate.