What is an Animal Behaviorist?

Introduction: Understanding the Role of a Certified Animal Behaviorist

Understanding the role of an animal behaviorist can be confusing, especially for dog owners seeking specialized help for their pets. Many people hear the term “board-certified veterinary behaviorist” or “animal behaviorist” and wonder what exactly these professionals do, how they differ from dog trainers, and how to find a legitimate expert. This blog post aims to clarify these questions and provide insight into the world of animal behaviorists.

Credentials and Expertise

A Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) typically holds a Ph.D. or a Master’s degree in a related field such as biology, zoology, or psychology. These professionals are board-certified members of the Animal Behavior Society, which ensures a high standard of expertise and ethical practice.

In contrast, many dog trainers, including those with certifications like Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT), focus primarily on obedience training and behavior modification techniques. While most trainers have a solid understanding of animal behavior, they usually do not hold advanced degrees or board certifications in animal behavior.

What Do Animal Behaviorists Do?

Animal behaviorists work in a variety of settings and capacities. Some consult with local governments or large organizations, such as helping design dog parks or developing training curricula for nationwide programs. Others specialize in clinical behavior modification, often collaborating with veterinarians to prescribe medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Similar to psychiatrists in human medicine, animal behaviorists often focus on specific niches, such as aggression cases, academic research, or corporate consulting.

The Difference Between Trainers and Behaviorists

While there is overlap, the primary difference lies in scope and depth. Dog trainers typically focus on teaching obedience, service work, or hunting skills. Behaviorists, on the other hand, delve into environment enrichment, behavior modification based on scientific research, and complex behavioral issues.

A good dog trainer understands behavior principles, and a good behaviorist understands training fundamentals. However, the level of education, experience, and certification can distinguish the two.

My Experience and Perspective

I hold a certificate in applied animal behavior from the University of Washington and am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT). I work about 30 hours a week as a basic obedience trainer and run a private behavior consultation practice.

I do not call myself a “Certified Behaviorist” because I am not board-certified. Many professionals who work in behavior also avoid this title unless they hold the proper credentials. My cases often involve unique situations, such as assisting families whose dogs have been abused by trainers or groomers, or writing reports for legal cases.

I also enjoy working with ancient breed groups like Chow Chows, Malmutes, and Shar-Peis. While dog aggression is not my primary focus, I have helped families with challenging cases involving these breeds.

The Reality of Finding a Legitimate Behaviorist

Many behaviorists charge between $250 and $350 per hour, which can be prohibitive for some dog owners. Additionally, many professionals refer clients to behaviorists without realizing that certified behaviorists are not available locally.

Fortunately, more universities and credentialed school programs offer education in applied animal behavior and canine science, increasing the availability of qualified professionals.

Why the Distinction Matters

Understanding the difference between animal trainers and behaviorists is important because it affects the level of help your dog receives. Trainers often focus on obedience and specific skills, while behaviorists address deeper behavioral issues through scientific methods and sometimes medication.

This distinction can mean the difference between a poorly executed “quick fix” and a long-term, sound solution for your dog’s behavior problems.

How to Find a Legitimate Animal Behaviorist

Finding a qualified behaviorist can be challenging. Here are some tips:

• Check Credentials: Look for board certification from recognized organizations like the Animal Behavior Society or the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists.
• Ask About Education: Confirm they have an advanced degree or appropriate education from a credentialed school in animal behavior or a related field.
• Seek Experience: Find someone who works directly with individual cases and tailors behavior modification plans.
• Verify Referrals: Be cautious of referrals; not all professionals in your area may be truly certified behaviorists.
• Use Trusted Directories: Websites like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) and the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists offer directories of certified professionals.

Conclusion

Finding the right help for your dog’s behavioral issues can be challenging. Understanding the distinctions between trainers and behaviorists, and knowing the credentials to look for, can empower you to make informed decisions. If you suspect your dog needs specialized behavioral support, seek out certified professionals and ask about their qualifications.

If you have questions or want to learn more about animal behavior, feel free to reach out or explore more posts in our Field Notes blog section. Your dog’s well-being is worth the effort to find the right expertise.

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