Finding a behaviorist

I have no great resources of where to find one BUT once you do you'll have to make sure they are a proper fit for your dog and issues.

Ask if they use positive or negative reinforcement?

Is their consultation free of you chosse to use them?

thanks!  I am new to this kind of stuff.

When we needed to start to deal with Maverick's issue of being afraid of children, I called my vet and they recommended two behaviorists, I called both of them and explained our situation, I followed my gut instinct and went with the one who I felt would use the positive reinforcement that I wanted for my boys.  She charges by the session or a package deal for three visits.  It worked well, and gave us the tools to use.

I hope it helps.  We still call her when we see a potential behavior issue or if we have a question. 

I started out by using this website and then made calls after finding some that sounded like what I was looking for. We paid $90 for an initial consultation (over an hour long), which included evaluating both dogs (we were dealing with dog/dog aggression). From that evaluation, we were given some suggestions for working with them at home. It was worth every penny in our case and I wish you were close enough to use the woman who helped us. Asking your vet is also a great idea.

http://www.apdt.com/

I started with the APDT website and the IAABC website: http://www.iaabc.org/ 

Some things to look for (IMO):

• will come to your house to see the dog in the environment in which the dog is having troubles
• wants to see everyone in the family, not just the "primary" dog owner
• has extensive questions for you about your dog and your family and your dog-related habits
• is a good listener and doesn't assume they "know you"
• shows enjoyment for dogs in non-professional ways as well, maybe volunteering to work with dogs, showing dogs, competing in dog sports... that sort of thing.
• is not uncomfortable with your dog or with your situation

International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, Inc.
http://www.iaabc.org

Directory of Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists
http://www.animalbehavior.org/Applied/CAAB_directory.html

Thanks everyone!