FAQ
Can most behavior issues in dogs be cured or fixed?
Learning to improve unwanted behaviors takes time and depends on so many factors including the dogs age, their learning history, the guardians willingness to be patient, consistent and accountable to the work. Some behaviors tease out quickly once an understanding of expectations and clear communication is established between the dog and their person. Other more serious behaviors including fear, separation anxiety, compulsive behaviors and phobias (irrational fears) take more time. I will never guarantee behavior change however many people I've worked with have experienced great promise and joy at the changes.
Does it matter who I hire to train me and my dog?
Yes. It can be overwhelming for the dog owning public to find help for their furry companions. Navigating the landscape is difficult there are so many different types of trainers. Some may seek advice from friends, family members, breeders, veterinarians, or browse the internet. However, the information available can be confusing and contradictory, leading people to make the wrong decisions on where to find help. While everyone should have the choice to hire a professional, they want to work with, not all professionals are equally educated and informed. Many for example lack knowledge in animal behavior and learning theory which must be applied when evaluating behaviors. There's a real risk of hiring the wrong professional and adopting inaccurate and harmful information that could cause distress. Even worse, there's a risk of learning and applying unintentional harm to your pet leading to normalizing abusive behavior so to manage your pet dog. This could result in the learner (dog) developing aggressive and even phobic tendencies leading to biting. We are seeing signs of the dog training profession moving towards standardization and even regulation, to ensure that all professionals adhere to humane standards of care and ethical guidelines. Moving toward regulating the profession where standards of care and humane training protocols are adhered will take time. Meanwhile, its essential you are informed so to make the right decisions when hiring a professional. Below is a description of each professional, their role and how they can better serve you and your pet companion.
What do all those letters after your name mean?
- MSc, masters of science. I have earned a degree in applied anthrozoology which is a critical study of the interactions and relationships between human and nonhuman animals. Anthrozoology spans the humanities and the social, behavioral, and biomedical sciences. I have also earned a masters of science in communication management.
- CCBC, certified consultant behavior canine
- CPDT, certified professional dog trainer
- CSAT, certified separation anxiety trainer
- FFPC, fear free pet certified
What is your role?
I am considered a "dog therapist/dog psychologist" and am referred by veterinarians in my community as well as other satisfied clients. As a psychologist for dogs I lean on my knowledge and technical experience in applied behavior modification training to help shift and change emotions in dogs. Some of my work is technical but not difficult to teach guardians. It just requires an investment of time to learn. In many cases I also combine aromatherapy, play therapy and relaxation protocols where applicable.
Since I work with both people and dogs to improve relationships, I call myself a "human animal relationship therapist" and have been working in this capacity for over ten years. I started learning more about dogs because of my love for my own dogs. This led me to volunteer for local rescue and shelters in the Boston, MA area and later opened my own pet services business managing a staff of 15 people. Over time I pursued certifications in dog training, small animal aromatherapy, animal behavior and then went on to pursue a graduate degree while also researching dogs and people for a non profit organization. I've worked with well over 700 behavior cases over the years and, completed extensive technical small animal behavior clinical training work and practical dog training. I've earned two graduate degrees one in Anthrozoology, and the other communication management. As a research associate with the Center for Canine Behavior Studies (CCBS) cofounded by Dr. Nicholas Dodman, I have co authored multiple peer reviewed published papers. Topics range from treatments for aggression in dogs, the impact of puppy training on long term behavior and owner satisfaction in adopted dogs. Presently I continue to consult with the CCBS team on educational materials to help reduce dog bites to children. I also produce a Podcast and write for various online publications and blogs.
Since I work with both people and dogs to improve relationships, I call myself a "human animal relationship therapist" and have been working in this capacity for over ten years. I started learning more about dogs because of my love for my own dogs. This led me to volunteer for local rescue and shelters in the Boston, MA area and later opened my own pet services business managing a staff of 15 people. Over time I pursued certifications in dog training, small animal aromatherapy, animal behavior and then went on to pursue a graduate degree while also researching dogs and people for a non profit organization. I've worked with well over 700 behavior cases over the years and, completed extensive technical small animal behavior clinical training work and practical dog training. I've earned two graduate degrees one in Anthrozoology, and the other communication management. As a research associate with the Center for Canine Behavior Studies (CCBS) cofounded by Dr. Nicholas Dodman, I have co authored multiple peer reviewed published papers. Topics range from treatments for aggression in dogs, the impact of puppy training on long term behavior and owner satisfaction in adopted dogs. Presently I continue to consult with the CCBS team on educational materials to help reduce dog bites to children. I also produce a Podcast and write for various online publications and blogs.
Do you work with veterinarians?
Yes, a majority of my clients are referrals from veterinarians and from previous clients. When necessary I collaborate with veterinarians to provide them my assessment and identify if behavior medication is necessary to help successfully support a treatment plan. I keep the veterinarian informed of assessments and behavior modification plans and protocols being used.
What services do you offer?
I offer 4 week and 3 month training programs ranging from puppy training to more complex Behavior Modification Training programs designed to help people improve their management, and understanding while the dog improves behaviors stemming from fear, anxiety, stress and aggression. Programs include
- Behavior Modification Training (30 & 90 days)
- Puppy Training: consultations and training programs (30 & 90 days)
- Separation Anxiety Training: consultations and training programs (30 days)
- Kids and Dogs: consultations and training programs (90 days)
What's the difference between your 30 and 90 day training programs?
The difference is in the 30 day program there is no access to educational portal with pre recorded presentations and supplemental learning and training materials, no online worksheet tracking changes, limited access to support
Do you have social media accounts?
Yes, the links to my social media account links to Instagram, Linked In, FaceBook, X, are are to the right. I offer lots of free educational material to the public on my Instagram account @vivianzottoladogbehavior and my YouTube Account @bostonk9concierge
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What areas do you service?
Acton, Arlington, Belmont, Boston, Burlington, Cambridge, Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, Waltham, Wellesley, Weston
Do you train people with young puppy and adolescent dogs?
Yes! I love working with all stages of dogs (and their people) and offer programs to help guardians reduce the risk of developing problematic behaviors.
Can I hire you for one or two training lessons?
Unfortunately no. Learning behaviors and forming new habits takes time and requires consistent repetitive practice. While I do offer 30 day training programs, generally it takes 90-120 days to form new habits. Learning requires one the freedom to make mistakes and learn from them without stress. I offer hourly services only to graduated clients.
Do you use shock, prong or choke collars?
No. Experienced and knowledgeable dog professionals like myself do not use these equipment as they are ineffective and inhumane. Many of my clients were referred to me because of the behavioral/psychological harm caused by these equipment. Instead I teach people a structured communication system that involves learning soft skills and technical skills. We now use the same psychology that we use with non verbal children that is to inform the learner when they do something or act in a way we like and if they have problem solved correctly.
How long have you been dog training?
I've been training dogs since 2005 and in 2013 earned my first dog training certification through the Counsel of Certified Professional Dog Trainers
What are your dog related certifications?
Non Human Animals
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers®
Applied Clinical Behavioral Medicine NAVC Institute with Dr. Karen Overall, FL May 2017, May 2018
Applied Behavior Analysis Course Living & Learning with Animals, with Dr. Susan Friedman 2013, 2015
Fear Free Pet Certified Professional 2019
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers®
- Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA #1133159) earned in 2015
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA #1133159), 2013
- Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer, (CSAT) completed 2015
Applied Clinical Behavioral Medicine NAVC Institute with Dr. Karen Overall, FL May 2017, May 2018
Applied Behavior Analysis Course Living & Learning with Animals, with Dr. Susan Friedman 2013, 2015
Fear Free Pet Certified Professional 2019
Have you studied human psychology?
Yes. In my graduate work at Canisus University I studied the psychology of human animal relations and in 2022 I earned a certification, Professional Course in Positive Neuroplasticity with Dr. Rick Hansen. The program included 18 hours of online theoretical and experimental work using exercises, presentations, discussions, home study and reading.
What degrees do you hold?
Undergraduate in Economics, Masters of Science in Communication Management, Masters of Science in Anthrozoology
What is your role at the Center for Canine Behavior Studies, Inc (CCBS)?
In 2018 I joined the Center for Canine Behavior Studies, Inc. (CCBS) a nonprofit public 501(c)(3) organization. CCBS is dedicated to the study and research of human-canine behavior in order to find solutions to behavior problems that help keep dogs in their forever homes. From inception, my role has fluctuated depending on the project. As a volunteer I work on various projects from assisting the team to research and write studies, analyzing and interpreting video recordings of dog dog and dog human engagements. Since 2021, I have co authored four peer reviewed studies published in esteemed journals with the team and continue to provide content monthly to the CCBS newsletter with over 20,000 subscribers.
Do you get paid for the work you do with CCBS?
No, not monetary payment however the gains I receive include knowledge and credit for authoring peer reviewed published papers I've worked on.
What are the different training and behavior professional roles?
VETERINARIANS: (Dog Primary Care Physicians)
Imagine your veterinarian as your dog's main healthcare provider, similar to a primary care physician in human medicine. While they possess extensive general knowledge, they are not specialized in any particular field. These extraordinary individuals are committed to your dog's well-being. It is recommended to work with a veterinarian who is certified FearFreePets Certified, as they are proficient in reducing fear and anxiety to enhance the visit. Veterinarians will evaluate the underlying cause of your dog's behaviors to determine if it is physical or emotional (behavioral). They will guide you to the appropriate professional for psychological intervention, whether that be a veterinary behaviorist, behavior consultant, or a combination of both. In a study we performed at the Center for Canine Behavior Studies on aggression in dogs, we found 15% of dogs were found to have an underlying medical cause for their behavior. If a sudden or developing problem persists, see your veterinarian first!
BOARD CERTIFIED VETERINARY BEHAVIORIST (Dog Psychiatrists)
These individuals generally are certified through The American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB.org). They are specially trained to advance behavioral health of animals through research, science-based behavior education and the practice of clinical behavioral medicine. Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorists are trained and dedicated to treating behavior problems. They understand brain anatomy and prescribing the right type and dosage of behavior medication to aid in improving behaviors. There are approximately 100 diplomats in the United States. While veterinarians can prescribe medications, legally veterinary behaviorists can diagnose behavior disorders, assess medical components of behavior and prescribe medications when needed to support behavior modification training. Think of this professional as a psychiatrist for animals. They do not provide hands on training and strategy often collaborating with a CAAB or Behavior Consultant to provide those specialized services. To learn more about board certified veterinary behaviorist and find one near you see https://www.dacvb.org.
CERTIFIED APPLIED ANIMAL BEHAVIORIST (Dog Psychologists)
Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (CAAB) and Associate Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (ACAAB) have completed extensive graduate work in the science of animal behavior, earning a PhD or MS. In order to become certified, they have passed rigorous oral and written exams, published articles in scientific journals, and met the coursework and hands-on experience requirements of the Animal Behavior Society. Applied Animal Behaviorists specialize in analyzing why your pet is engaging in unwanted behaviors in order to develop custom, and at times novel, behavior intervention programs. An applied animal behaviorist is a psychologist for dogs. CAABs however may or may not possess knowledge and experience dog training. Note: there are some CAABs skilled in dog training that is, practical dog training experience including understanding soft skills and technical skills however not many.
BEHAVIOR CONSULTANT (Dog Therapist)
Behavior consultants are advanced trainers with extensive experience working with mild, moderate and severe behavior disorders. These specialists have gained knowledge and practical experience working with a minimum 300 behavior related cases always requiring a solid understanding of training techniques and learning theory. Behavior Consultants lean on antecedent management and soft skills to evaluate behavior challenges and implement practical dog training skills to decompress stress levels and reduce the risk of bites. Certified behavior consultants have extensive education in ethology (scientific knowledge of species-specific behavior), animal behavior, animal welfare, learning theory and applied behavior analysis. A behavior consultant’s job is to create, help implement and track customized behavior modification plans for each animal/human family that will help reduce challenges, improve relations and healthy behaviors. Behavior Consultants collaborate with veterinarians, CAABs and board certified veterinary behaviorists to track behavior changes. For a list of behavior consultants see resources including www.CCPDT.org, www.IAABC.org , www.AVSAB.org,
TRAINER
Trainers teach (or add new behavior skills) including sit, down, recall, walking on leash nicely etc. There are various categories of dog trainers including obedience training, trick training, nose work training, agility training. Dog training is based in science; however, the dog training profession is (as yet) unregulated with no licensing requirements or regulatory oversight. Credentialing bodies including CCPDT.org, IAABC.org and APDT have established joint ethical standards. That there is no regulation makes it difficult for the public to know what to look for when interviewing dog trainers and leaves room for bad actors to use pseudo-science to support outdated and harmful methods including painful equipment to manage behaviors. Managing dogs using painful equipment (prong, shock collar, choke collar) have been shown in multiple studies to lead to aggressive behaviors. For those shy and skittish individuals, they shut down further and confident individuals develop aggressive behaviors. The AVSAB.org has published a paper on humane dog training and recommend only methods free of fear, intimidation and pain be used with companion animals when teaching them. They include a list of credentialing training organizations which is not complete but a good start. Read position statements here https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/
Imagine your veterinarian as your dog's main healthcare provider, similar to a primary care physician in human medicine. While they possess extensive general knowledge, they are not specialized in any particular field. These extraordinary individuals are committed to your dog's well-being. It is recommended to work with a veterinarian who is certified FearFreePets Certified, as they are proficient in reducing fear and anxiety to enhance the visit. Veterinarians will evaluate the underlying cause of your dog's behaviors to determine if it is physical or emotional (behavioral). They will guide you to the appropriate professional for psychological intervention, whether that be a veterinary behaviorist, behavior consultant, or a combination of both. In a study we performed at the Center for Canine Behavior Studies on aggression in dogs, we found 15% of dogs were found to have an underlying medical cause for their behavior. If a sudden or developing problem persists, see your veterinarian first!
BOARD CERTIFIED VETERINARY BEHAVIORIST (Dog Psychiatrists)
These individuals generally are certified through The American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB.org). They are specially trained to advance behavioral health of animals through research, science-based behavior education and the practice of clinical behavioral medicine. Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorists are trained and dedicated to treating behavior problems. They understand brain anatomy and prescribing the right type and dosage of behavior medication to aid in improving behaviors. There are approximately 100 diplomats in the United States. While veterinarians can prescribe medications, legally veterinary behaviorists can diagnose behavior disorders, assess medical components of behavior and prescribe medications when needed to support behavior modification training. Think of this professional as a psychiatrist for animals. They do not provide hands on training and strategy often collaborating with a CAAB or Behavior Consultant to provide those specialized services. To learn more about board certified veterinary behaviorist and find one near you see https://www.dacvb.org.
- Tip: Because the demand is so high and specialists low, Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorists now consult with veterinarians. If your pet is experiencing emotional trauma which in turn is affecting their quality of life, your veterinarian may suggest consulting with a veterinary behaviorist (psychiatrist) or behavior consultant (psychologist). If your companion is suffering due to fear, anxiety and stress, a veterinary behaviorist can prescribe the right medications to not only help ease their psychological challenges but prime or prepare the dog for learning new behaviors. VBs will consult with local veterinarians to help address various behavioral issues. They also work with behavior consultants skilled at training to help shape and improve behaviors. Since there are limited veterinary behaviorists available and high demand for their services, some may offer consultations across state lines. You can ask your veterinarian if they are willing to consult with a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.
CERTIFIED APPLIED ANIMAL BEHAVIORIST (Dog Psychologists)
Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (CAAB) and Associate Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (ACAAB) have completed extensive graduate work in the science of animal behavior, earning a PhD or MS. In order to become certified, they have passed rigorous oral and written exams, published articles in scientific journals, and met the coursework and hands-on experience requirements of the Animal Behavior Society. Applied Animal Behaviorists specialize in analyzing why your pet is engaging in unwanted behaviors in order to develop custom, and at times novel, behavior intervention programs. An applied animal behaviorist is a psychologist for dogs. CAABs however may or may not possess knowledge and experience dog training. Note: there are some CAABs skilled in dog training that is, practical dog training experience including understanding soft skills and technical skills however not many.
BEHAVIOR CONSULTANT (Dog Therapist)
Behavior consultants are advanced trainers with extensive experience working with mild, moderate and severe behavior disorders. These specialists have gained knowledge and practical experience working with a minimum 300 behavior related cases always requiring a solid understanding of training techniques and learning theory. Behavior Consultants lean on antecedent management and soft skills to evaluate behavior challenges and implement practical dog training skills to decompress stress levels and reduce the risk of bites. Certified behavior consultants have extensive education in ethology (scientific knowledge of species-specific behavior), animal behavior, animal welfare, learning theory and applied behavior analysis. A behavior consultant’s job is to create, help implement and track customized behavior modification plans for each animal/human family that will help reduce challenges, improve relations and healthy behaviors. Behavior Consultants collaborate with veterinarians, CAABs and board certified veterinary behaviorists to track behavior changes. For a list of behavior consultants see resources including www.CCPDT.org, www.IAABC.org , www.AVSAB.org,
TRAINER
Trainers teach (or add new behavior skills) including sit, down, recall, walking on leash nicely etc. There are various categories of dog trainers including obedience training, trick training, nose work training, agility training. Dog training is based in science; however, the dog training profession is (as yet) unregulated with no licensing requirements or regulatory oversight. Credentialing bodies including CCPDT.org, IAABC.org and APDT have established joint ethical standards. That there is no regulation makes it difficult for the public to know what to look for when interviewing dog trainers and leaves room for bad actors to use pseudo-science to support outdated and harmful methods including painful equipment to manage behaviors. Managing dogs using painful equipment (prong, shock collar, choke collar) have been shown in multiple studies to lead to aggressive behaviors. For those shy and skittish individuals, they shut down further and confident individuals develop aggressive behaviors. The AVSAB.org has published a paper on humane dog training and recommend only methods free of fear, intimidation and pain be used with companion animals when teaching them. They include a list of credentialing training organizations which is not complete but a good start. Read position statements here https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/
How many behavior related clients have you worked on?
Over 900 maybe more, I've lost count and am working on collecting and analyzing the data I have including the different cases I've worked on over the years.