They are not the same
A dog trainer teaches: they help your dog learn to walk without pulling, come when called or behave better at home. A clinical behaviourist is a vet specialised in behaviour: they can diagnose a behaviour problem, rule out medical causes and, if needed, prescribe medication.
The word “behaviourist” is also used by people who are not vets. If the problem is serious, ask about their training: what you are looking for is a vet trained in clinical ethology or behavioural medicine.
When to see a dog trainer
They are your professional for learning and everyday life together:
- Basic training and socialisation of a puppy.
- Pulls on the lead or does not come when called.
- Jumps up at people or gets overexcited with visitors.
- Learning to live with children, cats or another dog.
- Getting ready for new activities: beaches, terraces, travel.
When to see a behaviourist (vet)
Book a clinical behaviourist if you notice:
- Aggression: growling, snapping or biting.
- Intense fears or phobias, for example of fireworks or storms.
- Anxiety when left alone, with destruction or injuries.
- Repetitive behaviour: non-stop licking or tail chasing.
- Sudden changes in character: they can be caused by pain or illness.
How to choose a good professional
Look for someone who uses positive methods, rewarding what the dog does well, and be wary of anyone using prong or electric collars or promising miracle results in a few days. A good professional starts with an assessment session, explains the plan and teaches you to apply it, because the real work happens at home.
Ask about their training and experience with cases like yours, and ask for reviews from other clients.
What you can do now
While you find help:
- Take your dog to the vet to rule out pain or illness.
- Write down when and where the problem happens and what triggers it.
- Do not punish: fear makes almost every problem worse.
- Avoid the situations that trigger it for now.
- Find vets near you on the evoZoa map.
For the dog park
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