| QEL Code | 910 |
| CPD | 10 |
| Estimated Study Time | 10 Hours |
| Study mode | Online |
| Award type | Certificate |
| Assessment Method | Short answer questions to confirm your knowledge |
Course Accreditation
Quality Endorsed by:
Course fees £149
Unit 1
Requirements of a Dog Behaviourist
This unit explores the knowledge and skills required to work as a behaviourist and applying these to the profession. Learn how to develop behavioural plans and consultations, how to work with clients and vets and promote your behavioural services. The unit also studies GDPR requirements and how to ensure safety as a lone worker and when working with dogs.
Unit 2
Behavioural plans and Client Support
This unit studies the components of a behavioural plan, including how best to communicate the strategy and support clients throughout this process. An often overlooked aspect of behavioural change is the necessity of behaviour change from the care giver to facilitate a behavioural change in a dog.
Working as a Dog Behaviour Professional
Most professional qualifications and courses explore the origins of behaviour, what can cause/affect unwanted behaviour and how to treat unwanted behaviour.
What is often missing is how to actually carry out a behaviour modification visit and how to set up and run your own business.
This course will appeal to those considering a career in this field and to those who are ready to set up their own behaviour business.
Applied Canine Behaviour Analysis
Applied behaviour analysis approach is the science of observable and quantifiable behaviour and the relationship to the environment in which it occurs. We can explain, predict and change behaviour by identifying the contingencies that control observable and measurable behaviour.
The functional relationship between behaviour and the environment is often called the three-term contingency:
Antecedents (A)
Behaviour (B)
Consequence (C)
To change behaviour using the applied behaviour analysis approach means identifying and manipulating both antecedents and consequences associated with the dogs’ behaviour. Applied behaviour analysis approach recognises the evolutionary and biological context for canine behaviour and acknowledges private mental experiences (feelings) but does not see them as causes of behaviour, independent of the environment. Behaviour can change by manipulating both the antecedent and the consequence. A Functional Analysis must be taken before working on any problems.
Dog behaviourists and other professionals who work with dogs and their owners or with dogs in rescue often get referrals from a vet. This is considered best practice as the dog behaviourist is then aware of any underlying medical conditions.
The work often involves:
· Taking a detailed history of the problem from the caregiver, including medical information.
· Observing and handling the dog to assess response to different situations.
· Establishing the cause of unwanted behaviour
· Advising the caregiver on how to modify the dog’s behaviour.
· Compiling a report outlining the behaviour modification plan for the caregiver and veterinary surgeon.
· Maintaining contact with the caregiver after consultation to assess progress, provide support and, if necessary, to modify advice depending on the progress made.
