These are by no means exhaustive lists, but worrying trends are occurring where people set up as a dog professional and harm occurs to the dog and the relationship between the dog and their guardian. 

It is really important to know who you are working with/ hiring. Our dogs are our family members and it’s important that we check out who we are hiring just like we would a child minder! 

Image description: A two pane comic strip with a grey background. The title reads: Navigating the waters of hiring a dog behaviourist: spotting  warning signs and good omens

The first top window is of a Wolfdog pulling a red banner (symbolising a red flag), in a play bow position. The red banner reads in bullet point style: 

Offers guarantees

no qualifications/ won’t share certifications

No force/fear free or ethical memberships

no follow ups

doesn’t want to observe the behaviour

doesnt work across a multidisciplinary team

one known protocol fits all

blames breed and or guardian

uses or resorts to use of aversion/ punishment/flooding

zero Professional experience under a mentor

no consultation pack

has no clue why behaviour occurs

The bottom window is of a Wolfdog pulling a green banner (symbolising a green flag), in a play bow position. The green banner reads in bullet point style: 

Does not offer guarantees – Explains why not ethical

shares certifications – encourages to check testimonials

Fear & force free & ethical memberships/ accreditation

Follows up/ maintains regular contact

Wants to observe the behaviour as naturally occurs

Works  across a multidisciplinary team

Tailored behaviour modification plan based on consultation pack and sets timely reviews

Uses only fear, force free methods or holistic

Professional experience under a mentor for years

consultation pack

Happy to refer on if not a great symbiosis doesn’t blame guardian or breed