What you need to know before hiring a dog trainer or behaviourist
The UK dog training industry is unregulated. Anyone can call themselves a trainer or behaviourist. Here's how to find someone you can trust – and what to do if something goes wrong.
What The Charter means for you
The UK Dog Behaviour and Training Charter is a voluntary professional standard. It does not have statutory powers – but it does require members to meet specific, published criteria, and it provides a complaints procedure if those standards are not met.
When you hire a professional from a Charter Member Organisation, you can be confident that they:
- Hold a verified qualification from one of our approved organisations
- Have committed to using only force-free, science-based methods
- Abide by our published Code of Conduct
- Are subject to our independent complaints procedure
- Maintain their knowledge through ongoing CPD
How to choose a dog professional
Even within The Charter, it's worth asking the right questions before you commit. Here are the questions we recommend asking any prospective trainer or behaviourist:
What qualifications do you hold?
Look for qualifications from our recommended course providers. Ask to see certificates if you're unsure.
What training or behaviour modification methods do you use?
A good trainer or behaviourist should be able to explain their methods clearly. They should use positive reinforcement and avoid punishment, aversive tools (prong collars, e-collars), or flooding techniques.
Can you provide references from previous clients?
Reputable professionals are happy to provide references or direct you to testimonials from past clients.
Are you insured?
Professionals should hold public liability insurance. Ask to see evidence of this.
What happens if I'm not happy with the service?
Charter Member Organisations are subject to our complaints procedure. Ask the professional how they handle complaints and whether they are affiliated with a Charter Member Organisation.
Red flags to watch for
Not every professional who claims to be qualified or "positive" is using ethical methods. Watch out for the following:
- Use of prong collars, choke chains, or electronic (e-collar/shock) devices
- Techniques described as 'dominance-based' or 'alpha' training
- Refusing to explain their methods or let you observe a session
- Guaranteeing results ("guaranteed to fix your dog in one session")
- No verifiable qualifications or professional body membership
- Asking you to leave the room during training sessions
Raise a concern about a Charter Member Organisation
If you believe a Charter Member Organisation has breached our Code of Conduct, you can raise a formal concern with our independent Oversight Committee. We take all complaints seriously and will investigate within our published timeframes.