Sandra Raw at
Beech Behaviour Centre
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TRAINER AND A BEHAVIOURIST?
A dog trainer and a dog behaviourist both work with dogs, but they focus on different kinds of problems and use different expertise.
Simple Rule of Thumb
Trainer = teaches behaviours
Behaviourist = changes underlying emotional responses
There is overlap, and many professionals do both, but the main difference is:
trainers focus more on skills and obedience
behaviourists focus more on emotional and psychological causes of behaviour
Dog Trainer
A dog trainer teaches dogs, and owners, specific skills and manners.
Common areas:
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Basic skills; sit, stay, recall, loose-lead walking
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Puppy training and socialisation
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Everyday household manners
A trainer is usually the right choice when:
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You get a new puppy
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Your dog is healthy and generally emotionally stable
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You want to improve communication and skills
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The issue is mainly about teaching or consistency
Examples:
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Pulling on the lead
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Jumping up at guests
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Not coming when called
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Learning crate training
Dog Behaviourist
A behaviourist focuses on emotional and psychological problems behind difficult behaviours.
Common areas:
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Fear and anxiety
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Aggression
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Separation distress
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Phobias
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Compulsive behaviours
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Trauma-related issues
A behaviourist looks at:
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Why the behaviour is happening
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Emotional triggers
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Stress, environment, and learning history
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Possible medical causes
A behaviourist is usually the right choice when:
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The behaviour is intense, dangerous, or emotionally driven
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Training alone has not solved the issue
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There may be anxiety, fear, or aggression involved
Examples:
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Biting or snapping
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Severe barking from panic
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Guarding or protective behaviours
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Fear of people or dogs
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Destructive behaviour when left alone
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Pica - eating things they shouldn't
Clinical behaviourists work closely with vets because pain, illness, or neurological issues can affect behaviour.