Dog behaviourist
A dog behaviourist is a professional who works towards modifying and managing the behaviour of dogs and, in particular, problems such as aggression, separation anxiety, fears, timidity, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive behaviours. Most dog behaviorists are experienced dog handlers who have developed their skills over many years and studied behaviour either formally or through personal research. Some have backgrounds in veterinary science, animal science, psychology, zoology, sociology, biology, or animal behavior they have applied their experience and knowledge to the interaction between humans and dogs.
To help establish and further this form of training, associations dedicated to the development of behavioural dog training have been established. Different associations have different standards, goals, and requirements for membership. There is no legal requirement for any kind of certification or accreditation to call oneself a behaviourist. However, some behavioural associations might require accreditation to join, others may simply require a declaration of intent for continuing personal development. Most behaviourists seek accreditation and there are many colleges and institutions that provide training.
Behaviourism and ethology are two different ways of studying animals; one is confined largely to experimental study in order to discover the driving force and includes manipulation to observe adaptation (behaviourism), and the other is based on observation, and studies behaviour in its natural form without attempting to overtly modify behaviour (ethology).
Typically a behaviourist works one-on-one with the dog and its owner. This is often carried out in the home or the area where the dog is showing behavioural problems. Many dogs are cautious or nervous in neutral territory, this can make it difficult to establish the root cause of some common behavioural problems.
The methods and tools employed by the behaviourist will depend on several factors including the dog's temperament, the trainer's personal philosophy on training, and the behavioural problem being addressed. At one end of the spectrum, some behaviourists attempt to train dogs without any aversive or coersive methods at all, relying solely on food treats or praise. Other behaviourists believe that the use of verbal corrections, headcollars, correction collars, electric collars are necessary or useful when treating particular dogs or particular behavioural problems.
Positive-only trainers sometimes claim that traditional training is abusive , and traditional trainers often see their positive reinforcement counterparts to be ineffective and self-righteous. However, the truth is that all professional behaviourists and modern trainers use a combination of positive motivators and aversives to change a dog behaviour, even turning your back and ignoring a dog is an aversive.