Professional Standards · Welfare · Inclusion
Ethos &
Qualifications
Professional competence matters. So does how that competence is used. The Dog Centre combines recognised behaviour credentials with an evidence-led, welfare-centred and inclusive approach to working with dogs and the people who care for them.
Professional Qualification
IAABC Certified
Dog Behavior Consultant
Suzy White holds the CDBC designation — Certified Dog Behavior Consultant — through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
IAABC describes its Certified level as being for behaviour consultants who work with complex cases involving behaviours that affect the safety or quality of life of animals and the people around them, including fear, anxiety, aggression, phobias and compulsive behaviour.
The credential is not an attendance certificate. IAABC acts as a third-party credentialing body and evaluates a consultant’s existing knowledge, experience and professional judgement through a rigorous, structured and writing-intensive examination process involving case studies, scenario responses and evidence of applied work.
Certified consultants are also required to maintain continuing professional education.
Learn About IAABC CredentialsWhat The Credential Represents
Knowledge assessed across
the whole behaviour case.
IAABC core competencies span behavioural assessment, learning science, species-specific knowledge, consulting skills, animal behaviour, biological sciences and professional ethics.
That breadth matters because behaviour does not exist in isolation. Effective consultancy may require consideration of learning history, environment, health, pain, development, communication, emotional state, family circumstances and the practical realities of daily life.
Our Ethos
Welfare is not an extra.
It is the starting point.
Evidence-Led Practice
Behaviour modification and training decisions are guided by current behavioural science, learning theory, observation and measurable information rather than tradition, dominance-based assumptions or unsupported claims.
Welfare First
The animal’s physical and emotional welfare is of first and foremost importance. Behavioural outcomes are not pursued at the expense of safety, health, emotional wellbeing or the dog’s ability to cope.
Humane Behaviour Modification
Our work prioritises management, environmental change, reinforcement, skill-building and carefully planned behaviour modification. We do not use methods or equipment designed to cause fear, pain or intimidation.
The Whole Dog
Behaviour may be influenced by health, pain, development, genetics, environment, prior learning and emotional state. Where appropriate, veterinary or allied-professional input forms part of the wider case plan.
Supporting People Too
Good behaviour work has to work
for the humans as well.
Behaviour consultancy is a collaborative process. A technically excellent plan is of little value if it cannot be understood, implemented or sustained by the people living with the dog.
The Dog Centre takes time to understand each client’s circumstances, goals, learning preferences, confidence and practical limitations. Recommendations are adapted so that they are realistic, clear and achievable for the household in front of us.
We aim to communicate without judgement. Clients should feel able to ask questions, say when something is not working and be active participants in decisions about their dog.
Inclusivity & Accessibility
Professional support should be
respectful and accessible.
The Dog Centre is committed to an inclusive, non-discriminatory service. We welcome people of all backgrounds, identities, family structures, abilities and neurotypes.
We recognise that people process information, communicate and learn in different ways. Where possible, we adapt our communication and support to suit the individual — whether that means clearer written information, slower pacing, practical demonstrations, visual material, remote support or another reasonable adjustment.
Respect for people and welfare for animals are not separate values. Both are fundamental to ethical professional practice.
Professional Assurance
Qualified. Insured.
Professionally accountable.
The Dog Centre combines recognised professional certification with appropriate business insurance and insurer approval.
Professional Certification
IAABC · CDBC
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
Insurer Approval
Allianz Approved
Approved by Allianz Insurance for professional dog behaviour and training services.
Business Cover
Pet Business Insurance
The business is covered by specialist Pet Business Insurance for its professional activities.
Work With The Dog Centre
Evidence-led support,
centred on welfare.
If you are looking for professional behaviour or training support, complete the BOOK IN form and tell us a little about your dog.
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