Sandi’s K9 Management

In working with dogs, a question that frequently comes up is “what is the difference between a dog trainer and a behaviorist”?   Working as both a dog trainer and a behaviorist, when I am contacted by a dog owner I first need to take a look at what the dog owner is hoping to accomplish with their dog(s).   Oftentimes, the training will fall into a management and obedience category.  However, once in awhile I will see a dog who is really having a problem adjusting to life in the human world.  That is where I put on my behaviorist hat and really put my in-depth knowledge of dogs and their behaviors to work.

First, let’s take a look at what a dog trainer is.  A dog trainer is typically an obedience instructor that you will find at the head of your basic dog training classes.  Dog trainers work with manageable behaviors such as: pulling on the leash, coming when called, sitting, laying down, basic housetraining, jumping on people, etc.  Most of these problems can be solved with obedience training.  Basic obedience training will open a line of communication between canine and human, thus helping you build a deeper relationship between the two of you.  Credentials should always be looked at before working with a dog trainer, and the trainer should have had years of hands-on training of the basic commands.  Unfortunately, there are several “schools” out there that do not include hands-on instruction, or very limited hands-on instruction when handing out their “certifications”.  Dog training is not regulated, and although there are many wonderful organizations out there, it is always best to look at the amount of experience a dog trainer has had before handing over your hard earned money.

Now let’s take a look at what a dog behaviorist is.  A behaviorist steps in where basic obedience training fails to solve a behavior issue.  Typically, a trainer is looking to make a behavior happen whereas the behaviorist will be attempting to make a certain behavior go away.  You would call a behaviorist if your dog is having any aggression problems, anxiety issues, fear related behaviors, or any other behavior you may consider “abnormal”.  It takes years of in-depth knowledge and training to even consider being called a behaviorist.  Unfortunately again, this is unregulated and there are many people out there who will be more than willing to take your money and “fix” your dog.  As a dog owner, you should also be aware that most obedience instructors do not have the in depth training of a behaviorist and could actually do further damage to your dog’s abnormal behavior by trying to solve it themselves. 

If you are having problems with your dog, and you feel that you need professional help then by all means seek it out!  By searching for credentials and experience, you are sure to find a great trainer or behaviorist.  And remember to give that dog a chance before giving up on him!

Copyright 2008.  Sandi Hansen.  Sandi’s K9 Management.  All Rights Reserved.