Anyone can call themselves a dog trainer, even if they don't have any knowledge or skills. It's so important to find a professional trainer - some training methods can be harmful and cause long term damage and behaviour problems.
In the UK, the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) sets and oversees standards of professional competence and animal welfare during training and behaviour therapy.
ABTC-registered animal training instructors have been assessed as having the right skills, knowledge and experience to support you and your pet. These professionals will teach you how to train your dog ethically and in a way that meets your dog's welfare needs.
The ABTC Practitioner Directory lists the species which any given practitioner works with (having been rigorously assessed as competent in the role).
Heather Julie Clayton is a Karen Pryor Academy Graduate (CTP Certification Number 44639) and an ABTC registered animal training instructor.