Behaviorist vs Veterinary Behaviorist

Many dog trainers will take on behavior cases. Unfortunately, the dog training industry is unregulated, so anybody can hang a shingle and claim to be a dog trainer or behaviorist. I want to clarify the differences between 3 main categories for behaviorists:

DOG TRAINER

Dog trainers may be able to offer some varying degrees of assistance on behavioral issues. However, this service is usually anecdotal and not based on formal schooling. Results may vary, from very helpful to extremely harmful.

CANINE BEHAVIORIST

This is a more modern category, only available in the last decade or so. This is someone like me, who has pursued a graduate degree in animal behavior, specializing in the canine species. We have extensive training backed by scientific studies. We are taught to think holistically, including diet, exercise, environment, positive/reward-based methods, and how to manage the dog's nervous system.

VETERINARY BEHAVIORIST

This is the most advanced category, as these folks are board-certified veterinarians who specialize in behavior. They are the only ones who can create a custom-cocktail of medications to suit severe cases. No one else can prescribe medications besides veterinarians (including a primary care), and vet behaviorists can better recommend less common medications than Fluoxetine (Prozac) or Trazadone (sedative). However, their familiarity with training methods is often lacking severely, so it is best to also work with a Canine Behaviorist.

Ability	Dog Trainer	Canine Behaviorist	Veterinary Behaviorist
Dog Training	X	X	?
Basic Behavior Modification	X	X	X
Advanced Behavior Modification		X	X
Recommend Medication		X	X
Prescribe Medication			X
Price	$75-$150/hr	$200-$300/hr	$400-$750/hr