How to check someone is a qualified behaviourist, not just a trainer

Your dog lunges at other dogs on walks. You've watched a few YouTube videos, tried the standard training tips, and nothing's shifted. Now you're looking for professional help, but every trainer you find claims to work with "behaviour issues". How do you know if you're calling someone with real qualifications, or just someone who's branded themselves as a behaviourist?

The distinction matters. A trainer might teach sit and stay beautifully; a qualified behaviourist understands the science of why your dog behaves the way it does and can design a programme to address the root cause. But there's no single obvious marker — no licence plate on the car, no membership card in the wallet. You have to dig a little.

Check their formal credentials and training pathway

Start by asking directly: where did they study? What qualification do they hold? A qualified behaviourist will have completed a recognised behaviour course or hold a relevant tertiary qualification in animal behaviour or applied animal behaviour. They should be able to name the institution, the programme length, and when they completed it.

Common pathways include diplomas in companion animal behaviour, degrees in animal behaviour science, or postgraduate certificates in applied animal behaviour. Some have studied overseas (UK, Australia, USA) where the profession is more established; others have completed South African programmes. None of these alone proves competence, but a legitimate pathway is the foundation.

Don't accept vague claims like "I've been doing this for twenty years" without backing credentials. Experience without formal training in behaviour science is just a long history of repeating the same methods.

Ask for registration with a professional body and check it

A behaviourist who's serious about their craft often belongs to a professional association that sets standards and ethics. Ask if they're registered with bodies like the South African Association of Applied Animal Behaviour Professionals, or similar. If they claim membership, ask for their registration number and verify it yourself by contacting the organisation directly or checking their public register.

These bodies usually require members to:

• Hold relevant qualifications from accredited programmes
• Commit to a code of ethics (including refusing to use punishment-based methods where they're counterproductive)
• Engage in ongoing professional development
• Submit to complaints procedures

If they can't name their professional body or get defensive when you ask to verify, that's a red flag. Legitimate professionals expect this question and have the answer ready.

Request references and contact them

Ask for at least two or three client references — people whose dogs faced similar problems to yours. When you call, don't just ask "Were you happy?" Instead, ask:

• What was the dog's problem when they started, and what changed?
• How long did the programme take, and what were they asked to do?
• Did the behaviourist explain *why* the dog was behaving that way?
• Would they hire them again?

If a behaviourist refuses references, or only offers glowing testimonials from people you can't actually reach, move on. Qualified professionals have real clients willing to talk.

You can also search for their name online — publications, conference presentations, or articles they've written suggest someone engaged with the field beyond their own client list. It's not essential, but it's a plus.

A practical first call

When you phone, listen to how they respond to your description. Do they ask questions about your dog's history, environment, and what's already been tried? Or do they jump straight to their method and cost?

A behaviourist should want to understand your situation before making any recommendations. They should also be willing to explain their approach in plain language — not jargon, and not secret methods they'll only reveal in person.

Finding a truly qualified behaviourist takes a bit more legwork than choosing a trainer, but it's worth the effort when your dog's wellbeing is at stake. When you've narrowed down your options, you can find verified behaviour specialists in your area on Strove — each one has been vetted, so you can skip the detective work and focus on the right fit for your dog.