We are often asked this question and although they do different jobs there are many cross over areas in what we both do.

• A dog trainer teaches people how to teach their dogs and depending on the training package you may have booked they sometimes teach your dog for you.

• A behaviourist uses their extensive knowledge and expertise to understand what is motivating your dog to perform the behaviour you’re worried about. This is critical for your dog to be able to learn new behaviours or coping strategies to cope with difficult challenges e.g. dog to dog issues, human fear issues, barking, poo eating etc.

• Behaviourists also help you to teach your dog those new behaviours too. They may need to work with your Veterinary Surgeon too and Vets generally refer clients to behaviourists rather than trainers.

• Many behaviourists are also trainers, such as Sandra Raw. 

• Without a doubt it is a minefield, and anyone can call themselves a Dog Trainer or Behaviourist. Just remember, any good trainer or behaviourist should use kind, reward-based training methods with a behaviourist educated in Canine Behaviour to at least degree or master’s level and use science based compassionate force free methods.