Jim Gillies CDBC is a highly experienced and qualified dog behaviourist in Glasgow. With over a decade of experience working with dogs and their owners, Jim has earned a reputation as a trusted expert in his field. He is dedicated to promoting positive reinforcement and reward-based training techniques, always prioritising the well-being of the dogs he works with.
How To Find a Dog Behaviourist or Dog Trainer?
In this article about “Navigating the World of Glasgow Dog Trainers and Behaviourists”, we discuss how Dogs are one of the most loved pets, and renowned for their affectionate and loyal nature. However, every so often, they will develop undesirable behaviour, such as aggression, excessive barking, chewing, or digging. This is where the expertise of a dog behaviourist comes in.
If you find this article interesting, you might want to check out our blog and podcast section.
A dog behaviourist is an expert who specialises in understanding dog behaviour and presenting strategies to assist dogs, and their guardians, to triumph over their behavioural problems. They work intensively with dogs and their guardians to determine the underlying cause of the issue and create a training program to assist the dog in resolving their problems.
When you are in the process of finding a dog behaviourist or trainer in Glasgow, it’s essential to navigate through the selection with a discerning eye. Here’s a more detailed exploration of the key considerations:
Qualifications and Experience
When selecting a dog behaviourist or trainer in Glasgow, there are a number of crucial considerations to take into account. The following are some important factors to think about while selecting a dog behaviourist:
- The credentials and experience of the dog behaviourist should come first when making your decision. Working with someone who has the necessary expertise and experience to comprehend canine behaviour and offer efficient training methods is crucial. Ensure you source someone with the right qualifications, accreditation and experience. Remember, the dog training industry is not regulated!
- Seek out a dog behaviourist with a degree or certification in ethology, animal behaviour, or a related subject. To assist dogs and their owners in resolving their behavioural challenges, they should also have practical expertise working with dogs and guardians alike.
Reputation and Recommendations
Qualifications and Experience
- Academic and Professional Credentials
- Look for a professional with a robust educational background, such as a degree or certification in ethology, animal behaviour, or a related field.
- Ensure they have formal training and recognition from reputable institutions.
- Real-world Experience
- Verify the behaviourist’s hands-on experience with dogs of various breeds and temperaments.
- Experience should include a portfolio of successfully resolved behavioural issues, demonstrating their expertise.
- Understanding Canine Behaviour
- An expert should have a deep understanding of dog psychology and behaviour modification techniques.
- They should be well-versed in the science of how dogs learn and socialize.
- Navigating an Unregulated Industry
- Recognise that dog training is not a regulated industry in Glasgow, so checking credentials and experience becomes even more important.
- Look for memberships in accredited dog training associations as an additional trust factor.
Reputation and Recommendations
- Community Standing
- A reputable trainer will have established a good standing within the local Glasgow dog community.
- Look for signs of active engagement with local dog owners and businesses.
- Word-of-Mouth and Testimonials
- Positive recommendations from other dog owners can be a significant indicator of success.
- Online reviews can provide insight into the experiences of previous clients.
- Repeat Business
- High rates of repeat business suggest that clients are satisfied with the training and see long-term benefits for their dogs.
Communication Skills
- Clarity in Communication
- A good trainer will articulate training plans and behavioural techniques clearly to the owner.
- They will provide understandable instructions and feedback during training sessions.
- Empathy and Patience
- Patience is paramount, as behavioural training can often require a gradual approach.
- The trainer should show empathy towards both dogs and owners, creating a comfortable learning environment.
- Active Listening
- Excellent trainers listen to the owner’s concerns and observations, which is crucial for tailored training.
- They should involve the owner in the training process, ensuring their perspective is acknowledged and integrated.
Techniques and Approaches
- Ethical Training Methods
- Ethical training methods focus on positive reinforcement and reward-based training, rather than punishment.
- These methods have been shown to be more effective and beneficial for the dog’s overall well-being.
- Personalised Training Plans
- The best trainers do not use a one-size-fits-all approach; they customize training to fit the individual dog and owner’s needs.
- Training plans should be adaptable, reflecting the dog’s progress and any new challenges that arise.
To summarise
Selecting the best dog behaviourist or trainer in Glasgow is crucial if you want to assist your dog in resolving their behavioural problems and developing into a contented, well-behaved pet. When making your decision, take into account the behaviourist’s credentials and expertise, reputation and recommendations, communication skills, tactics, and approaches. Your dog can overcome their behavioural problems and grow to be a treasured and adored member of your family with the correct assistance and training.
If you would like to hear more about animal behaviour then checkout our podcast where we discuss this subject in depth with world-leading experts
Here are a few organisations to consider sourcing a dog behaviourist or trainer through:
· https://iaabc.org/en/certs/members
· https://apdt.co.uk/find-a-trainer/
About me
Jim Gillies, a Certified Dog Behaviourist and Trainer in Glasgow with over 10 years of experience, prioritises canine well-being through modern, science-backed methods. Handling 4000+ cases of 1-to-1 behaviour training, Jim is fully accredited, insured, and recognised for addressing various behavioural issues including aggression, separation anxiety, and more. Jim holds qualifications in level 5 (merit) Advance Diploma Canine Behaviour Management and level 6 Applied Animal Behaviour. Explore his insightful blog and podcast, sharing expert knowledge on dog training and behaviour. Certified by the IAABC, Jim’s expertise makes him a reliable choice for addressing your dog’s needs.
Contact information
Should you have any questions about this article, feel free to contact me on:
- Email: jim@cbtdogbehaviour.com
- Mobile: 07864029933
