Finding a Trainer

There are no regulations governing the use of the title of Animal Behaviorist or Dog Trainer. In other words, anyone can be called a dog trainer or pet behaviorist no matter their level of education or experience. When selecting a trainer to work with your pet, consider the skills and experience your trainer will bring to your situation. The following are types of experience to look for:

• References: Most trainers have satisfied customers and professionals that will vouch for their quality service. You may ask to observe a class or training session before you sign up for services.
• Interview: ask your training professional questions about their procedures and philosophies. Interview more than one trainer and compare to find the professional that meets your requirements.
• Experience:  Hands on experience at a veterinary hospital, pet store, farm, breeding facility, animal control agency or as a competitive trainer: people who work with many different animals are exposed to a range of behavior and people with long term experience learn many successful strategies. Ask if your trainer completed an internship with a well known trainer or training school or club or someone with years of experience.
• Membership in a professional association: National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI), the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), and the Association of Pet Behavior Counselors, or Animal Behavior Society (ABS). These organizations usually have a code of ethics for members as well as requirement for members to take continuing education. The ABS certifies trainers with advanced academic degrees that are not veterinarians.
• Formal education: advanced degrees in psychology, biology, ethology, veterinary medicine or a combination of degrees in these fields.
• Specialization: Some trainers specialize in treating certain species or problems. For example, a trainer may treat only parrots that have been aggressive toward people. When your pet has a specific behavior problem there can be an advantage to seeking out a consultant with experience serving your particular needs.
• Veterinarians: Some behavior problems respond best to a combination of behavior modification and medication. Any licensed veterinarian may treat animal behavior problems as part of comprehensive veterinary services but some hold supplemental degrees such as a Ph.D. in a behavioral science or in pharmacology. A branch of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) qualifies veterinarians through exam to specialize in behavioral health. There are only a handful of these veterinarians and they are often associated with veterinary teaching hospitals.

Other ways to be sure you have chosen a good trainer are to check for licenses and references. Some municipalities require animal professionals to obtain a permit or business license which requires periodic inspection of facilities. The Better Business Bureau may be a source of information as well. You can always ask for a list of references from the behaviorist directly. Previously satisfied clients and other pet professionals are a good source of information about the service you can expect.