Clinical animal behaviourist
Jim Gillies | CAB, CDBC
ABOUT
Jim Gillies, Dog Behaviourist and Trainer
Dog Behaviourist Based in Glasgow & West Central Scotland
Jim Gillies CAB, CDBC is a Clinical Animal Behaviourist and Dog Behaviourist & Trainer based in Glasgow, bringing over a decade of professional experience to the assessment and treatment of dog behaviour issues across Glasgow and West Central Scotland.
A Full Member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC) and a Registered Clinical Animal Behaviourist with the Animal Behaviour & Training Council (ABTC), Jim is also an IAABC Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant (CDBC). Jim works with dogs presenting with a wide range of behaviour challenges, including aggression, anxiety, fears & phobias, and reactivity.
Fully qualified and accredited, Jim carries comprehensive professional insurance. Over the course of his career, he has supported thousands of dogs and their owners through one-to-one behaviour work in Glasgow and beyond.
CBT Dog Behaviour & Training was awarded Canine Behaviour Specialist of the Year 2025 – Glasgow and Best Dog Behaviour Consultancy 2025 at the Scottish Enterprise Awards.
On this site, you can enjoy Jim’s professional insights in the blog and podcast, where current, evidence-based approaches to behaviour assessment and intervention are discussed.
Jim specialises in addressing a wide range of behaviour issues, including:
Fear-based behaviour and phobias
Compulsive and repetitive behaviours
Accreditations & Awards
Book Now
01
Submit an Enquiry
Use this form to share some initial details about your dog and the concerns you’re experiencing. I’ll review your enquiry and be in touch to discuss possible options and availability.
02
Book a Consultation
Either in-person for West Central Scotland or virtually for anywhere else. We will run through your dog’s history and background and from there, I will construct a training plan designed to reduce or resolve your dog’s issues.
03
Progress!
We select the best package and get to work! We will tailor the best package for you and your dog’s needs. If you decide to progress, you will do so with complete transparency and set goals to achieve. We work as a team to address your dogs issues and improve their quality of life.
Words from my Clients
Hear what our clients have to say! We take pride in our personalised and effective approach to dog behaviour modification and training. Here are just a few of the testimonials we’ve received from happy clients:
“
I really couldn’t recommend Jim enough, from the initial consultation he was great with Poppy and the knowledge he shared with us has been invaluable. Thanks a lot Jim”
Jen Weir
Customer
“
I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Jim to anyone. Archie adored him from our first consultation and it was obvious that Jim had a wonderful rapport with dogs. Even the ones we met on our training walks! Thanks again Jim.”
Catherine Johnston
Customer
DOG TRAINER LINKS
Useful Resources
Articles & Resources
Dog behaviourist articles and commentary from Jim Gillies CAB | CDBC
Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly – A Review
Television shows like “Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly” have a significant impact on dog owners’ perception of their pets’ behaviour and their approach to addressing problems or unwanted behaviours. As dog trainers on TV are often the primary source of information for the general public, it is crucial that they provide accurate and up-to-date advice on dog training and behaviour management.
Is Aggression Genetic or Learned?
Aggression in dogs is a complex behaviour influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. While some breeds may have a genetic predisposition to aggression, it can occur in any breed. Factors like socialisation, training, and past experiences impact a dog’s behaviour. Aggression is both genetic and learned, with genes providing the foundation and environmental factors shaping the expression of the behaviour.
Rage Syndrome in Dogs
Rage Syndrome in dogs is a debated phenomenon involving sudden and unprovoked aggressive behaviour. Its causes may include genetics, neurological abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, and environmental factors. Diagnosing it is challenging, as there’s no specific test, but it often involves medical examinations and behavioural assessments. Treatment may include medication, behaviour modification, and environmental changes
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Some commonly asked questions
What is a dog behaviourist?
A dog behaviourist is a qualified professional who assesses and treats behaviour problems by identifying the emotional, environmental, and sometimes medical factors influencing a dog’s behaviour. Clinical behaviourists work with both the dog and their guardian to develop a structured, evidence-based behaviour modification plan, and may liaise with veterinary professionals where appropriate.
What kind of issues can a dog behaviourist help with?
A dog behaviourist can help with a wide range of behaviour concerns, including aggression towards dogs or people, anxiety-related behaviour, separation-related distress, fear-based behaviour and phobias, reactivity, compulsive or repetitive behaviours, excessive barking, and more complex or persistent behaviour problems. Support may also be appropriate where behaviour has changed following illness, injury, or ongoing pain.
How do I know if I need a dog behaviourist?
You may benefit from working with a dog behaviourist if your dog’s behaviour is causing distress, poses a safety concern, is worsening over time, or has not improved with basic training approaches. Behaviour support is also recommended where behaviour appears linked to fear, anxiety, aggression, or other underlying factors rather than simple training gaps.
What happens during a dog behaviour consultation?
A behaviour consultation involves a detailed discussion of your dog’s history, environment, and current behaviour, alongside observation where appropriate. The aim is to understand why the behaviour is occurring and what factors may be maintaining it. Following the consultation, you will receive a written behaviour report and a personalised behaviour modification plan, with follow-up support offered where needed.
Is there a guarantee that my dog's behaviour will change?
There is no ethical guarantee of behaviour change. Progress depends on many factors, including the nature of the behaviour, the dog’s emotional state, environmental influences, and consistency in implementing recommendations. The focus of behaviour work is on improving welfare, safety, and quality of life through realistic, achievable change.
How many sessions will it take to modify my dog's behaviour?
The number of sessions required varies from case to case. Some situations benefit from a single consultation and written guidance, while others require ongoing support over a longer period. This will depend on the complexity of the behaviour, contributing factors, and how the plan is implemented in daily life.
How much does a dog behaviour consultation cost?
Costs vary depending on the level of support required. Clear pricing for behaviour consultations and support packages is provided in advance, and recommendations are made based on the needs of the individual case. Insurance-funded options may be available where appropriate.
Can a dog behaviourist help with all breeds of dogs?
Yes. Behaviour work is based on the individual dog, their history, environment, and emotional needs, rather than breed alone. Support is tailored to each dog and household, taking breed traits into account where relevant.
How do I book a consultation with a dog behaviourist?
To book a consultation with a dog behaviourist, simply enquire now to schedule an appointment. It is important to provide as much information as possible about your dog’s behaviour to ensure that the consultation is as effective as possible.
Do I need a veterinary referral to work with a clinical animal behaviourist?
In some cases, veterinary involvement is recommended to rule out or address medical factors that may influence behaviour. Where appropriate, collaboration with your vet forms part of a safe, ethical, and welfare-led approach.
