Diploma in Dog Behaviour

SKU N/A Category Worldwide Tag Advanced course

Course Info

MHERA It is a state-of-the-art approach that provides a practical framework that allows the behaviourist, veterinarian, animal professional or dedicated owner to evaluate the individual animal’s emotional welfare and then address any deficits identified that may affect his behavioural and emotional wellbeing. It is not a rigid formula or recipe, but a fluid assessment tool that takes an individual’s uniqueness into consideration. MHERA (and the treatment protocol ESTA) are powerful tools when used properly and can be successfully applied to any animal species.

ONLY COAPE qualified behaviourists can become members of the prestigious CABTi and have automatic membership to the International Companion Animal Network (ICAN). This course will help you to achieve your goal of being a qualified Dog Behaviour Practitioner and making this your full-time profession.

Being your own boss has a lot of merit for people who enjoy working from home and working their own hours. If you choose to work with companion animals, networking with rescue organisations, trainers and veterinarians in your area is very important as this is where the majority of your referrals will come from. Most of these establishments do not have the time or resources available to address behaviour problems and are usually very relieved to be able to refer clients with problematic pets to someone who is highly qualified to deal with them. Plus, COAPE keeps a database of students who have successfully completed the Diploma and refers clients to them regularly.

Students who successfully complete the Dog Diploma will hold the qualification of COAPE MHERA Qualified Behaviour Practitioners and are entitled to use the post-nominal (DipCABT-D), as well as using the MHERA Qualified logo on all their marketing material.

Please note that proficient understanding and ability to apply appropriate, motivational training techniques is a prerequisite for admission into this course. Should you find yourself unable to meet this requirement, we kindly request you to reach out to us for further discussion on potential alternatives.

What the student will learn

Course Content

Module 1
This module explores the origins and development of dog behaviour, beginning with domestication and the ethology of the dog, including their perceptual abilities, social behaviour, and how selective breeding for functional traits—especially components of the predatory motor pattern—has shaped modern breed-specific behaviours. Students will learn about type classification, linking breed groups to typical behavioural tendencies, and examine behavioural ontogeny, focusing on the emotional and behavioural development of puppies. Key sensitive periods and milestones are discussed in relation to lifelong behavioural health. The module also critically examines outdated views on dominance, presenting current, evidence-based understanding of social structure and motivation in dogs.
Module 2
This module examines the nervous system’s role in behaviour, exploring key concepts in functional neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neural plasticity. The influence of neurotransmitters on emotional and behavioural responses is also addressed. Students will gain a solid grounding in learning theory, including classical and operant conditioning, habituation, sensitization, and desensitization and counterconditioning, with practical applications such as clicker training and the use of reward markers. The module concludes with a critical look at the ethics of punishment, highlighting why aversive methods are incompatible with humane, evidence-based behavioural practice.
Module 3
This module explores the CORE emotional states in animals and their significance in shaping behaviour and informing ethical, evidence-based interventions. It delves into the neuroscience of emotion, alongside models from the science of emotionality, including core affect theory, and dimensional and discrete emotion theories. Students are introduced to the MHERA™ protocol for assessing emotional and behavioural wellness and tools like cognitive bias testing and the Behavioural Inhibition System to better understand emotional state. The module also introduces ESTA™ (Emotional Systems Therapeutic Application), providing practical strategies to help animals resolve emotional challenges and promote long-term wellbeing.
Module 4
This module examines psychopathology in humans and dogs, exploring the physiological mechanisms and underlying pathology of emotional and behavioural disorders. It also considers how dietary factors can influence behaviour and emotional stability. Practical application of the MHERA™ and ESTA™ frameworks focuses on understanding and supporting dogs experiencing separation-related distress. The module emphasizes the importance of control and consent in training and behaviour work, promoting ethical, animal-led approaches to improve welfare and therapeutic outcomes.
Module 5
This comprehensive module covers key aspects of behavioural pharmacology, including drug classifications, therapeutic uses and limitations, and relevant legislation. It also explores the influence of sexual behaviour and hormones on emotional and behavioural patterns. A major focus is on understanding and addressing reactive and aggressive behaviour through the application of MHERA™ and ESTA™ frameworks. Students will learn how to conduct thorough consultations, perform risk assessments, and produce professional behaviour modification plans and vet reports, ensuring both safety and effective treatment outcomes.
Module 6
This module focuses on developing effective counselling techniques to support clients through behaviour change processes with empathy and clarity. Students will engage in live action role-play consults to build confidence and refine their communication skills in real-time scenarios. The module also guides learners in case study preparation, integrating behavioural theory with practical application to demonstrate professional competence and clinical reasoning.
Case Studies 1 and 2
The case studies are where you demonstrate your ability to take the theoretical knowledge accumulated throughout your course and apply it to animals who need behavioural assistance within the restrictions and complexities of everyday life. Once you have successfully passed your case studies, you will have earned your COAPE Certified Dog Behaviour (C.C.A.B.) certificate.