What is a dog behaviorist?

A dog behaviorist technically is someone who has a degree in animal behavior and specializes in dog behavior or is a Veterinary Behaviorist who has gone to veterinary school and has a veterinary degree with a specialty in behavior -- there are only about 40 in the world!!!

So technically, dog trainers cannot call themselves "dog behaviorists" unless they do, indeed, have a degree in animal behavior or are board certified veterinary behaviorists. But some dog trainers have other certifications. (And, by the way, there is no "licensed" dog trainer in California. Any person advertising himself as being a "licensed" trainer may have a business license, but that's about all.)

When you choose someone to help your dog with a behavior problem, ask him or her their background, how long they have been training, what experience they have with your dog's particular issue, where they received their certifications or degrees, how long their training program was, and if they have had to pass examinations by an independent examining body other than where they attended school to get those certifications or degrees.

Caryl Wolff is a clinical member of the International Association of Animal Behavior consultants, having passed their rigid qualification standards, and is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. She has also passed certifying written exams by the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers and the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors. She is the only Los Angeles dog trainer to concurrently hold the three certifications. Read more about her background, training, qualifications and experience here.

Now, let's talk about dog behavior problems and how

Doggie Manners can help YOU.

Most dog behavior problems occur in the home and are the result of a miscommunication between a dog and its owner -- what you intend and how your dog interprets what you do may be two entirely different things -- or incomplete or ineffective training. Many problems can easily be solved when you understand how and why your dog acts the way he does.

As we work together, we assess the cause of the problem and give you practical, clear-cut solutions which bring about positive changes. Unfortunately, there is no "one size fits all" in behavior modification and problem solving. So we work with each dog and owner individually and personalize a program to accomplish your goals, and we work with you every step of the way.

Most Problem Solving begins with the Basic Obedience Program which is a foundation program so you and your dog can communicate effectively. Some problems disappear with Basic Obedience, and no further lessons are necessary -- other solutions are easier than you think! However, for those that need further training and guidance, there may be additional lessons.

Some common dog behavior problems or concerns we work with are:

* Aggression
* Adjusting to children and babies
* Barking
* Begging
* Bolting out of doors and gates
* Car sickness and car behavior
* Chasing animals, bikes, or people
* Chewing
* Digging
* Fearfulness and shyness
* Fence jumping
* Fighting
* Garbage raiding
* Guarding toys or food
* Growling
* House soiling
* Hyperactivity
* Jumping on people, furniture, etc.
* Marking territory with urine
* Pulling on a leash
* Running away
* Separation anxiety (We have had great success with helping dogs with SA.)
* Stealing
* Stool eating
* Unruliness ...
and whatever else you want to work on

Please refer to Problem Solving Strategies and Articles for more information and then call us at 1-877-7-DOGGIE. We look forward to hearing from you.