A dog behaviorist is a person who has a thorough understanding of dog behavior and can work with dogs and their owners to correct undesirable behaviors such as housebreaking issues or barking at strangers. Because the term “dog behaviorist” is not restricted or protected in all jurisdictions, consumers should research the credentials of any dog behaviorist they are considering hiring to work with their dog. Some certification bodies for animal behaviorists in the United States require members to have a postgraduate degree in zoology or another relevant discipline, as well as additional training, before receiving their credentials.
Many dog owners discover that their dogs exhibit disruptive, unpleasant, or even dangerous behaviors toward other pets and family members on a regular basis. Local ordinances may hold dog owners liable for their pet’s behavior, making it even more critical to identify and address negative behaviors as soon as possible. While it is a good idea for pet owners to discuss their concerns about their pet’s behavior with their veterinarian because some behaviors are caused medical issues, not all veterinarians have the training or expertise to help manage and change a pet’s behaviors. A dog behaviorist can work with a pet owner to help him understand why his pet is misbehaving and what he can do about it.
Although some experts believe it is best for a dog behaviorist to work with dogs in their own homes so that the behaviorist can observe the context in which the dog lives and identify any issues that may be triggering negative behaviors, experts in dog behavior can work in a variety of settings. In addition, the dog may be more at ease in his own home, making it easier for the dog behaviorist to distinguish between ongoing behavior issues and normal discomfort in a new environment. The dog behaviorist can develop a plan of action to help the pet owner live in harmony with his pet after spending time with the dog and his owner. A dog behaviorist must typically have strong counseling and educational skills when working with human owners, in addition to expertise in dog behavior and training. A dog owner may be contributing to his dog’s behavior issues in some cases, and a good behaviorist will need to address these behaviors tactfully while assisting the owner in making necessary changes.