How to find the right trainer or behaviourist for your pet

The first question you need to ask yourself is what does your dog need?

Are your problems obedience based? Is your dog failing to follow instructions for simple 'dog' tasks? In which case you are most likely in need of a dog trainer to help you and your dog speak the right language to understand each other!

Are your problems more around reactivity? Fear or anxiety? High instinct drives? Separation or destructive behaviours? You are more likely to need a dog behaviourist. Behaviourists look into the reason WHY a behaviour happens.

It is also really important to consider the TYPE of trainer or behaviourist you want to work with! Not all canine professionals are cut from the same cloth! Look at their areas of expertise from puppies, classes, reactivity and aggression for example. Within this consider HOW they train; is it rewards based? Tools based? Games based? Aversive? You have to be comfortable in replicating this training with your dog at home!

Speak to the trainers and behaviourists available and get a feel for them. You need to be able to communicate with them openly and honestly throughout the training process; you can't do this if you can't hold a conversation with them. Any reputable canine professional will happily discuss with you what they can offer.

Last but not least, trust your gut! You know your dog, you know what you are comfortable with, so go with it!