What is a Dog Behaviourist?
🐾 What’s the Difference Between a Dog Behaviourist and a Veterinary Behaviourist? (Ayr, Scotland Guide)
If you’re a dog guardian in Ayr or the wider South Ayrshire area, and you’re struggling with your dog’s behaviour, you might be wondering:
“Do I need a dog behaviourist or a veterinary behaviourist?”
These two terms can sound very similar, but they refer to very different roles, and choosing the right support can make a huge difference for you and your dog.
In this blog, I’ll break down the key differences, so you can make an informed choice that’s right for your dog’s individual needs.
🐶 What Is a Dog Behaviourist?
A dog behaviourist is a professional who helps dogs with behaviour challenges such as:
Reactivity towards other dogs or people
Fearful or anxious behaviour
Aggression
Separation-related distress
Resource guarding
Sound sensitivity (e.g. fireworks, thunder)
Dog behaviourists use observation, behaviour modification plans, and positive reinforcement to help you understand why your dog is behaving a certain way and how to change it kindly and effectively.
🟢 Do they prescribe medication?
No — dog behaviourists cannot prescribe medication. But they may work closely with vets if they suspect that pain, illness, or anxiety disorders are contributing to behaviour issues.
🩺 What Is a Veterinary Behaviourist?
A veterinary behaviourist is a qualified vet who has undertaken additional specialist training in animal behaviour.
They are uniquely qualified to:
Diagnose behaviour disorders (like generalised anxiety disorder, etc.)
Prescribe behaviour-related medication
Assess medical factors that could be influencing behaviour
Work alongside other professionals such as dog behaviourists or trainers
Veterinary behaviourists are often needed for more complex cases, especially where there may be a clinical or neurological basis for the behaviour.
🤔 So Which One Do You Need?
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide:
If your dog struggles with mild to moderate behaviour issues (e.g. barking, pulling, fear, reactivity), a Positive Reinforcement Behaviourist (also called Dog Trainer but typically with more experience) would be suitable. For Long-standing or extreme behaviour issues, especially with severe anxiety or aggression (bite history), a Veterinary Behaviourist, might be best. (A referral from your vet required). Most qualified dog trainer/behaviourists can tell you if you are in the right place with a consultation.
In many cases, your dog behaviourist can work closely with your vet to determine whether a referral to a veterinary behaviourist is needed.
🐾 Need a Dog Behaviourist in Ayr, Scotland?
If you’re based in Ayr or surrounding areas like Girvan, Maidens, Prestwick, Troon, Maybole, or Alloway, and your dog is struggling with behaviour issues, I can help.
As a qualified positive reinforcement dog trainer and behaviourist, I specialise in:
✅ Reactivity and fear-based behaviours
✅ Creating calm, confident dogs
✅ One-to-one, tailored support in your home or online
✅ Always force-free, science-based, and kind
📍 Let’s Work Together
Helping your dog doesn’t need to feel overwhelming — and you don’t need to go it alone.
If you're searching for a dog behaviourist in Ayr, I’d love to chat and see how I can support you and your dog with compassion and clarity.
👉 Sign up for a FREE Dog Behaviour Consultation https://www.scotlanddogtraining.co.uk/free-consultation
📩 or, Message me ScotlandDogTraining@gmail.com
🌐 Visit: https://www.scotlanddogtraining.co.uk/