The Difference Between Dog Training and Dog Behavior Consulting—And How to Know Which One You Need

The Difference Between Dog Training and Dog Behavior Consulting—And How to Know Which One You Need

Written by Lauren Tsao, MS, CDBC, CPDT-KA

If you're a dog owner, you know that there are a lot of different services out there purporting to help your furry friend. But how do you know which one is right for you and your dog? In this blog post, we'll be discussing the difference between dog training and dog behavior consulting and outlining when you might need each service.

Dog Training

Most people are familiar with the concept of dog training—it generally refers to teaching your dog obedience cues, like sit, stay, come, etc. Dog training is usually done in a group class setting, where you and your dog will work alongside other dogs and their owners to learn the desired cues, as well as private sessions offered at the dog training facility or in your home. Dog training can be an excellent way to bond with your furry friend when positive reinforcement-based training techniques are used, while also teaching your dog some important skills that will make life easier for both of you. Dog training can be good prevention for problematic behaviors arising in the future, however, it can be limited in its ability to address behavioral problems your dog is already experiencing.

Dog Behavior Consulting & Behavior Modification

Dog behavior consulting is a bit more nuanced—it's geared toward addressing specific behavioral issues that your dog may be having already. This could be anything from separation anxiety to aggression issues. Oftentimes, these issues are caused by things like anxiety, fearfulness, or a lack of socialization—and they can be much tougher to address than obedience cues, so having a professional on your side who understands the nuances of behavioral problems is important. Because behavioral problems can be unique to each individual dog, dog behavior consulting is usually done on a one-on-one basis between the certified dog behavior consultant and the dog owner. The consultant will work with you to understand the root cause of the issue before devising a plan to address it. 

So, Which One Do I Need?

Training and manners are important for all dogs—but if your dog is exhibiting any kind of problematic behavior (barking excessively, chewing up your belongings, aggression, etc.), chances are good that you could benefit from working with a certified dog behavior consultant.

If you're not sure whether your furry friend would benefit more from dog training or behavior consulting, the best thing to do is reach out to a professional for guidance, you can contact me directly here and I am happy to put you in touch with a professional suitable for you and your dog’s situation. In any case, taking proactive steps to address your dog's needs will help ensure that you have a happy, healthy relationship for years to come!