Our behaviour services

Our behaviour services can help with all kinds of issues, including:

Training

- Toilet training 
- Recall training 
- Crate training 
- Attention seeking

Help with behavioural issues 

- Excessive barking 
- Fear of other dogs 
- Fear of people 
- Over-excited around other dogs 
- Over-excited around people 
- Separation anxiety 
- Sound sensitivity
- Biting and mouthing 

Giving up your dog

Dogs at high risk of being given up are our first priority, especially if the reason for making this decision is related to training or behaviour problems.

We'll do everything we can to support you with your dog’s training or behaviour issues that might lead to you having to give them up. 

The first step is to Fill in the enquiry form to request a callback or give our Behaviour Support Line a call on 0303 003 6666. There is no obligation to book, and you can start with a free call.  

When you give us a call, one of our friendly dog experts will assess what support your dog might need. Based on our conversation, we may be able to help over the phone and send you resources by email. If you need more in-depth support, we’ll discuss what to do next and we can book you in with one of our expert services. 

Yes. Most of our services have an online option if you’d prefer to talk virtually, or if you can’t get to a face-to-face session. We also have a range of expert advice available on our website to help with common behaviour problems. 

Before we can begin the specialist behaviour package, we need a signed referral from your dog’s primary care vet. This is an important step that helps us to provide your dog with the safest and most effective support.

Professional standards

As accredited Clinical Animal Behaviourists, we are required to work under veterinary referral.  

This forms part of our professional code of conduct, and ensures that your dog’s physical and behavioural health are considered together. Find out more about behavioural referrals.

Health and behaviour are linked

Just like in humans, medical conditions can affect behaviour in dogs. Working with your vet means we can be confident that your dog’s health has been checked and, if necessary, treatment can be planned alongside behaviour support.

Keeping your vet in the loop

A referral also means your vet is aware of the support your dog is receiving and can stay updated on their progress. In some cases, we may also need to discuss behaviour treatment options directly with your vet.

Do I need another vet appointment?

This depends on your vet practice. If your dog has had a recent health check, your vet may be happy to complete the referral without another appointment. However, the final decision rests with your individual vet practice. 
 

Find out more about puppy training to make sure you get your young pup set up for success.

If you’re seeking puppy trainers, we recommend you visit The Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

Yes. If your dog is adopted from Dogs Trust, we’re here to support you for the rest of your dog’s life. If you need advice, contact our post adoption support team.

If you are struggling and think you may need to give up your dog, please give us a call. We’ll listen without judgment and help you find the best way forward. More information about giving up your dog. 

We understand that plans can change, and we want to make things as clear and straightforward as possible.

Cancelling within 14 days

You have the right to cancel your booking within 14 days of payment and receive a full refund.

- Example: if you pay on 1 July, you can cancel up to and including 15 July.

- To cancel, simply email us at behaviourbookings@dogstrust.org.uk with your full name, address, and your dog’s name.

Please note: If you attend or miss an appointment and/or class within 14 days of payment, no refund can be given.

Cancelling after 14 days

Once the 14-day cooling-off period has passed, no refunds will be issued. However, we’ll consider refunds in certain circumstances, such as:

- Your dog sadly passes away

- You no longer own your dog

- Our Behaviour Services team feels your dog is not suitable or able to continue with sessions. In this case, we will provide a pro-rata refund based on what you paid, and the services already delivered.

Kind reminder: Refunds are not available for sessions or classes that you've already attended or missed.