What's the difference between a trainer and a Behaviourist?

Trainer 

A trainer focuses on teaching an animal new behaviours. Think search and rescue, service and assistance dogs or agility as an example. They would normally hold qualification with a recognised body such as Anied, Creedon's, IAPDT, APDT etc. Trainers often do 1-2-1 with their clients for basic training such as lead work or good manners. They might hold group classes for puppies, agility or fitpaws. There is no state requirement to hold a qualification in training. If in doubt, ask! Your trainer should proudly present this on request. 

 

Behaviour Consultant

A dog behaviour consultant should hold some level of higher education in animal behaviour and rehabilitation. They specialise in more complex behaviours such as stereotypes, aggression and fear based behaviours.

Consultants look to identify the root cause or motivation for the behaviour and can provide behavioural assessment and modification programs that include environmental management as well as training. Dog Behaviour Consultants (if accredited) follow a professional code of ethics which you can read here

​

Whilst there is no state requirement to hold any formal qualification, most behaviour consultants are accredited through a higher education institution or be a member of a governing body such as the IAABC (International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants). Being able to identify and work with maladaptive behaviours typically takes years of experience. Some Behaviour Consultants (like us) work closely with vets, physiotherapists, hydrotherapists and nutritionists.

​

Behaviourist

In the USA you must hold a scientific post graduate degree with an in depth knowledge of everything from neurology to physiology and the relatable link between these and behaviour. They might also work in the field of scientific research and produce papers indexed by prestigious scientific bodies. Snout & About believe that in respect to the enormity of work, study and years of educational dedication that the title Behaviourist should reflect the equivalent values held in the USA.

​

Veterinary Behaviourist 

There are no registered veternary behaviourists in Ireland but we do see people use this title due to lack of regulation. A veterinary behaviourist is a practising vet who holds a higher level of education specific to behaviour.  A veterinary behaviourist can help diagnose the whole animal both medically and behaviourally, prescribing the required medication to support behavioural change. Veterinary surgeons with expertise in behavioural medicine are recognised as such by specialist boards. In Europe, they are regulated by the European College of Veterinary Behavioural Medicine (Companion Animals). If in doubt, be sure to  check credentials.