A misbehaving dog or puppy can wreak havoc in any household. As much as you may love your pet, it’s hard to ignore their troublesome habits.
When a dog presents those types of issues, people often turn to trainers for assistance. But is that the right move? Do you need a dog trainer or will a behavior consultant be more helpful in that scenario?
Find out the answers to those important questions by continuing with the rest of this article.
What Does a Dog Trainer Do?
Let’s start by focusing on the job description of a dog trainer.
Dog trainers are tasked with teaching pets basic commands, improving obedience, and curbing undesirable habits. They can also help pets develop certain skills.
Trainers are often brought in to teach dogs that will work in law enforcement. They may also teach dogs the skills necessary to work well as service animals.
If you are trying to teach your puppy basic lessons related to house training, you should look for a trainer. Your pet should become a better companion after they get a chance to learn under a trainer.
What Does a Behavior Consultant Do?
In contrast to dog trainers, behavior consultants do not focus mainly on teaching pets different tricks and commands. Instead, their focus is squarely on the pet’s psyche.
The problematic habits that your dog engages in could be manifestations of underlying issues. If your dog barks a lot or snaps at people unprovoked, that could be related to an issue such as anxiety or an unidentified phobia.
Training will not resolve those mental issues that your dog has. Only behavior consultants will be able to address those mental issues.
Your dog’s behavior will gradually improve the more times they are able to see a consultant. They may even respond better to training after their mental issues are properly addressed.
What Are the Certifications for Dog Trainers and Behavior Consultants?
Pet owners can also tell dog trainers and behavior consultants apart by checking their certifications. Dog trainers may be certified by different bodies. The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, the International Association of Canine Professionals, and the Karen Pryor Academy are some of the more renowned certifying bodies.
Behavior consultants for dogs are only certified by a few organizations. According to the American Kennel Club, those organizations are the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
Ask for certifications if you want to gain a better idea of a trainer or behavior consultant’s credentials.
Find the professional that your dog needs by referring to the details provided in this article. If you’re looking for dog training, we at TAILored Pet Services is here to help. Call 425-923-7791 or visit our website if you are interested in our puppy foundation or reactive rover packages.
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