HOW DOES A CLINICAL ANIMAL BEHAVIOURIST DIFFER FROM A TRAINER?

Clinical Animal Behaviourists are knowledgeable in all aspects of animal behaviour. They are required to stay current on the most recent scientific findings through research and attending and presenting at professional continuing education meetings. Good trainers have a knowledge of behaviour, but not at the depth or breadth that is expected of a Clinical Behaviourist. While a trainer may teach an animal to perform certain actions in response to a command, obedience training does not usually get to the root cause of a behavioural issue or solve the behavioural problem. Please be aware that some trainers use techniques that are considered questionable and inhumane in their approach. For more information on how to select a dog trainer, please refer to the Animal Training Instructors list that is held by the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC). Please note that there are no restrictions on who can refer to themselves as a trainer or behaviourist as these professions are, as yet, unregulated in U.K.