I have seen people on here recommend behaviourists from the something register. I know it was A???, google searching I've found the APBC (The APBC | Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors) and The APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers).
any thoughts on either of these bodies?
Also can anyone recommend (or anti recommend? PM me if you dont want to name names but I'd like to hear if there's any to steer clear of. ) any good trainers/behaviorists in the south west? preferably within reach of the devon/cornwall border.
thank you!

I've always heard good things about Theresa Shipp who now trains at Chillaton and Holsworthy on the edge of Dartmoor

I go to Little Orchard Dog Training based in Somerset so a bit too far up for you I'd think

Both are members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and this is the first place I'd look for a trainer.  I don't have experience of a behaviourist but I'd probably start with training first (obviously depends on the situation you need to address)

my dog is (i think) nervous aggressive. she will walk through a show ground fine most of the time but if another dog comes too close she will sometimes lunge and snarl. I wasn't sure what would happen if she ever made contact with another dog and now I know :( 1 small hole and a mortified owner. It has escalated over time to the point that though I still think it is based on fear she will attack first. she is a 4-5 year old Working Labrador BTW.
My home diagnosis of nervous aggression rather than out'n'out viciousness is because she is visibly uncomfortable around strange dogs and people, flicks glances at them, doesn't like them behind her if she's in a wait etc. if other dogs are staring/barking she wont interact and play but just wants to stand up and hug to me. She is also happy and relaxed with all my other dogs, has bonded with and is completely trust worthy with my mothers 20month old bitch terrier. she is also a lot more relaxed around dogs at our agility class that she is familiar with, not friends but has stood near them for 2 years.
basic training I'm happy with, up to and including quite advanced agility training and tricks. If only there were no other dogs (or occasionally people) in the world I'd have the perfect dog!

I's sure the start of this has been because I live in a rural area with our own ground unless I deliberately take them somewhere they don't see anybody new at all. I did take her out to puppy classes and various socialisation trips when they were pups but 1-2 outings a week is just never going to replace living in a busier situation IMO.
Chillaton is an ideal are for me so I will look into Theresa's website.
there is a lady I know of who runs bona fido dog training near launceston and does rehabilitation groups in conjunction with Alpha dog training in yelverton. any body know of these 2?
thanks!

Hi there,

As the names suggest, the APBC members tend to be more highly qualified, though not always.

For a serious problem I'd look at the APBC, for something more straightforward I'd go to a good trainer with behavioural know-how and then APDT is a good guide, though not infallible. You are wise to try to get recommendations and whoever you try for do not apologise for asking questions about their experience and qualifications. I would avoid anyone too pushy or charging horrendous fees. Someone who is good and gets lots of work does not have to push hard, nor do they need to charge extortionate amounts.

Whoever you contact, do ask about their experience of dealing with fear aggression and what kind of programs they have had success with. You can also ask your vet if they have heard of whoever you contact. If you don't like the sound of someone, don't go there. The person has to work with you as much as your dog.

Please note that APBC are not necessarily canine specialists, as are APBT, many will treat a range of animal species- quite a few are vets.

Good luck

I trained with Theresa before she moved down to Devon.  I really enjoyed the classes and so did my dogs.  I was very sorry to see her go :-)  If she thinks you need a behaviourist rather than a trainer I'm sure she will let you know.  Good luck :-)

APBC
COAPE
UKRCB

Are professional bodies for behaviourists

GoDT
APDT
BIPDT

Are professional bodies for trainers

The benchmark for the latter is KCAI accreditation.