Behaviour team

Our behaviour experts make sure that dog welfare is at the heart of everything we do. They give guidance to teams across the charity and shape our services, to ensure that all our advice and activity put dog welfare first.

Max a brindle Lurcher standing on a grass platform looking at a trainers hand with a treat in it. The trainer is also holding a dog's muzzle

All the advice on our website has been approved by our experts, so you know it’s information you can trust.

Our behaviour teams have deep specialist knowledge of dog welfare. Between them, they hold BSc and MSc qualifications in animal welfare, science and health, behaviour and training, and ethics and law. Their expertise spans research and academia, helping us to ensure our support is always evidence-based.

Our behaviourists have practical experience working with dogs in various environments in the UK and internationally, including boarding and daycare facilities, training classes, behaviour consultations, kennels and rescue centres.

They have accreditations in Certified Clinical Animal Behaviour (CCAB) with CCAB Ltd and Animal Training Instructor (ATI) with The Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

Dogs Trust is also an Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) practitioner organisation. So, you can be sure our expert advice uses the most up to date, welfare-friendly methods.

What our behaviour experts do

As well as creating and reviewing expert advice, our behaviour teams work across Dogs Trust, safeguarding dog welfare in everything we do. A typical day could include:

Creating engaging content that we know dog owners need. From website copy, to training videos, with top tips to help navigate life with a four-legged friend.
Reviewing and updating internal behaviour and welfare guidelines and supporter training and behaviour materials.
Attending Dogs Trust events, whether big or small, to maintain excellent dog welfare standards and ensure the safety of our colleagues and supporters.
Giving interviews for local and national TV, radio and news outlets on topics impacting dogs, from current affairs to seasonal weather advice.
Providing expert advice for our Animal Welfare Scheme; ensuring the welfare and training needs of service dogs enrolled in the scheme are met humanely and ethically.
Offering tailored support to our corporate partners including training opportunities to educating supporters on dog welfare.
Providing expert guidance and review for press releases and government consultations on a range of topics including puppy smuggling, international rescue, fireworks, microchipping, greyhound racing, and pet friendly housing.

We also have dedicated dog trainers and behaviourists at all our rehoming centres who give daily support to the dogs in our care, from basic training to rehabilitation for complex issues.

Plus, we have a team of behaviour experts and coaches who offer practical support and advice to anyone who needs it. Find out more about our behaviour services.