Waving a magic wand won’t produce a terrific dog. A well-behaved dog is a product of genetics, training, and a loving home. For the training part, pet owners often seek outside help. There are many people who work in this field, so here is a simplified list of canine behavior professionals. What is a Dog Trainer? Dog trainers are known …
Finding a Dog Trainer or Dog Behavior Professional: Questions to Ask
There are currently no licensing, education or experience requirements for someone to call themselves a dog behavior professional, so it is important for you to be a knowledgeable consumer when selecting an appropriate professional. Many individuals who use the title “behaviorist” or “dog psychologist” have no educational experience that merits this designation. Trainers are typically individuals who understand basic learning …
Recommended Professional Dog Trainers
– Revised March 2025 – This page contains contact information for dog trainers in the St. Louis and Metro East areas. These trainers have all worked with the Humane Society of Missouri and utilize effective, humane methods that make training fun. Many hold multiple certifications with a variety of organizations. For serious problems such as aggression, always contact your veterinarian …
Use of Punishment for Behavior Modification in Animals
AVSAB’s position is that punishment (e.g. choke chains, pinch collars, and electronic collars) should not be used as a first-line or early-use treatment for behavior problems. This is due to the potential adverse effects which include but are not limited to: inhibition of learning, increased fear-related and aggressive behaviors, and injury to animals and people interacting with animals. AVSAB recommends …
Use of Dominance Theory in Behavior Modification of Animals
AVSAB is concerned with the recent re-emergence of dominance theory and forcing dogs and other animals into submission as a means of preventing and correcting behavior problems. For decades, some traditional animal training has relied on dominance theory and has assumedthat animals misbehave primarily because they are striving for higher rank. This idea often leads trainers to believe that force or …
