If your dog is struggling, you're not alone. In a national survey, nine in ten UK owners said they'd faced a behaviour challenge in the past year. The hard part is knowing who to ask. Here's a simple guide, using the role names on the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) register.
About vet referral: Clinical Animal Behaviourists, Veterinary Behaviourists and Accredited Animal Behaviourists only see clients on veterinary referral (ABTC). If you need one of them, start by asking your vet practice. Trainers and training instructors don't need a referral.
The short version
| Who | Best for |
|---|---|
| Your vet | Any sudden change in behaviour, signs of pain or illness, and anything involving medication |
| Animal Training Instructor | Puppy classes, manners, loose-lead walking, recall |
| Animal Behaviour Technician | Preventing problem behaviours and behavioural first aid. For complex cases, works with a behaviourist below. |
| Clinical Animal Behaviourist, Veterinary Behaviourist or Accredited Animal Behaviourist (vet referral needed) | All types of unwanted, problem or dangerous behaviour, such as fear, reactivity, aggression and problems when left alone |
Reacts to dogs or people on walks
Barking, lunging or freezing when another dog or person comes close is often called reactivity. It's usually driven by worry or frustration rather than “naughtiness”.
Who usually helps: a Clinical Animal Behaviourist or Accredited Animal Behaviourist, on referral from your vet, sometimes alongside an Animal Training Instructor. An Animal Behaviour Technician can help with early or mild cases. Start with your vet, especially if it began suddenly or your dog seems sore or unwell.
Can't be left alone
Barking, howling, chewing at doors or toileting when left can be signs of distress at being alone. Boredom can look similar, which is why a proper assessment helps.
Who usually helps: a Clinical Animal Behaviourist or Accredited Animal Behaviourist, on referral from your vet. Many work online, which suits problems that happen at home.
Growling, snapping or guarding
Growling is communication. It's a warning, and it's important not to punish it. Guarding food, toys or places, or snapping when handled, needs careful, expert help.
Who usually helps: start with your vet, because pain is a common cause and they can refer you to a Clinical Animal Behaviourist, Veterinary Behaviourist or Accredited Animal Behaviourist. Until then, avoid the situations that trigger it, and keep children and visitors safe.
New puppy
The first few months shape how a puppy copes with the world. Good early experiences matter more than any later training.
Who usually helps: an Animal Training Instructor running small, reward-based puppy classes. Ask your vet when your puppy can safely mix with other dogs. See when to start puppy classes.
Scared of fireworks or noises
Shaking, hiding, panting or trying to escape during fireworks or storms are common signs of noise fear. It helps to prepare well before fireworks season.
Who usually helps: a Clinical Animal Behaviourist or Accredited Animal Behaviourist, on referral from your vet, can plan gradual work. Speak to your vet about whether anything else might help your dog.
Pulls on the lead or won't come back
These are the most common challenges owners report, and they usually respond well to patient, reward-based training.
Who usually helps: an Animal Training Instructor, in a class or 1:1. If pulling comes with lunging or barking at other dogs, read the section on reactivity above.
Checking someone's accreditation
Anyone can call themselves a trainer or behaviourist in the UK. Check their role on the ABTC register before you book. Our accreditation guide shows how, and every professional we list links to their register entry.