If your dog has behavioural problems — aggression, anxiety, destructive behaviour, or excessive barking — a qualified behaviourist can help. But what does it cost, and how do you find the right professional? Here is a full pricing guide.

Average Behaviourist Costs

  • Initial consultation (1.5–2 hours): £150 to £300
  • Follow-up session (1 hour): £60 to £150
  • Written behaviour modification plan: Usually included in the initial consultation
  • Phone or video follow-up: £40 to £80
  • Full programme (initial + 3–4 follow-ups): £300 to £700

The initial consultation is always the most expensive because it involves a thorough history-taking, observation of your dog's behaviour, and creation of a personalised behaviour modification plan.

Behaviourist vs Dog Trainer

These are different professions:

  • Dog behaviourists deal with behavioural problems — aggression, fear, anxiety, compulsive disorders. They are typically degree-qualified in animal behaviour and work on referral from your vet. They address the emotional and psychological causes of unwanted behaviour.
  • Dog trainers teach obedience skills — sit, stay, recall, lead walking. They may or may not have formal qualifications. Training classes are much cheaper (see our separate guide).

If your dog's problem is behavioural (aggression, separation anxiety, phobias), you need a behaviourist. If it is a training issue (pulling on the lead, not coming when called), a trainer may be sufficient.

What Affects the Price

Qualifications

Look for behaviourists who are members of the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) — the UK's regulatory body for animal behaviourists and trainers. Clinical Animal Behaviourists (CAB) registered with the ABTC have degree-level qualifications and charge at the higher end. Accredited Animal Behaviourists (AAB) may charge slightly less.

Location

London and South East behaviourists typically charge £200–£350 for an initial consultation. In the North of England, Scotland, and Wales, prices are more commonly £120–£250.

Home vs Clinic

Most behaviourists visit your home because they need to observe your dog in their normal environment. Some also offer video consultations, which may be cheaper (£80–£150 for initial assessment).

Complexity of the Problem

Straightforward issues (e.g. mild separation anxiety) may be resolved in 2–3 sessions. Complex aggression cases may require 6 or more sessions over several months, plus potential collaboration with your vet regarding medication.

Does Insurance Cover Behaviourists

Some pet insurance policies cover behavioural treatment when referred by a vet. Coverage varies widely — some policies include it under complementary therapy, while others exclude it entirely. Check your policy wording. Vet referral is almost always required for insurance to pay.

How to Save

  • Get a vet referral: Your vet can rule out medical causes of behaviour (pain, thyroid problems, cognitive dysfunction) and may be able to recommend a trusted local behaviourist. A vet referral is also needed if you want to claim on insurance.
  • Check ABTC listings: The ABTC website has a free directory of registered behaviourists. Avoid unqualified practitioners who may charge similar fees but lack the expertise to help.
  • Ask about video sessions: Remote follow-up sessions via video call are often cheaper than in-person visits and can be just as effective for progress reviews.
  • Follow the plan: The biggest waste of money is paying for a behaviour modification plan and not following it consistently. Commit to the daily exercises and you will need fewer professional sessions.
  • Charities: The Dogs Trust and Blue Cross offer subsidised behavioural support in some areas.

Last updated: March 2026. Sources: Animal Behaviour and Training Council, VetCost practice data.