Can you help me find behavioural advice for my dog?

Dog training can sometimes be a tricky step in settling your pup into their new home. In some cases, dog guardians feel they need the opinion of a professional to help guide their dog training techniques.

Different professionals can help with different types of behaviour concerns. Who’s Who in the world of animal behaviour explains the roles of qualified dog trainers, animal behaviourists, Behaviour Veterinarians and Veterinary Behaviour Specialists so you can work out who may be best placed to help.

Start with a vet check

If an adult dog’s behaviour has changed suddenly, become more intense, or you’re worried about safety, start with your vet. Behaviour changes can sometimes have an underlying medical or physical cause, including pain. Tell your vet what you’ve noticed and follow their advice about assessment and next steps.

Finding the right professional

If training support is appropriate, our Finding the Right Dog Trainer guide explains what to look for in a qualified, welfare-friendly trainer and when a more specialised behaviour professional may be appropriate.

When choosing a trainer, look for relevant, credible qualifications, an evidence-led reward-based or force-free approach, and experience with the behaviour you’re seeking help with. 

If you’re worried your dog may not be able to stay at home

Depending on the situation, you may need to explore rehoming options or, when a dog cannot be safely rehomed or cannot have good welfare, read PetRescue’s information about behavioural euthanasia and discuss the situation with your veterinarian and behaviour professional.