Animal behaviorist

Career description

As an animal behaviorist with an MBO-level education, you observe and analyze animal behavior to identify and resolve behavioral problems. You create behavioral plans and guide owners in their implementation, often working in a practice, animal shelter, or at clients' homes. Empathy, observational skills, and communication abilities are essential.

Salary range

Salaried: €2,300 - €3,400 (Netherlands) gross per month (varies by industry, region, and experience).

Compare salaries across careers.

Education and preparation

Education level for Animal behaviorist: MBO.

Focus on practical experience, internships, and specializations that fit this field.

RIASEC profile for this career

Top profile: Realistic (90%), followed by Enterprising (70%).

Scores: R 90 • I 20 • A 20 • S 50 • E 70 • C 20

About the Animal behaviorist career

An animal behaviorist is a professional who studies and interprets the behavior of animals to help solve behavioral issues and improve their well-being. You work closely with animals and their owners, applying your knowledge to develop tailored behavior modification plans that promote harmony between pets and people.

This role suits you if you have a strong interest in animals and enjoy observing their actions to understand underlying causes. Empathy and good communication skills are essential, as you guide owners through behavior change processes and collaborate with other animal care professionals.

A working day as a Animal behaviorist

A typical day for an animal behaviorist involves observing animals in various environments, such as homes, shelters, or clinics, to identify behavioral patterns and problems. You spend time interacting with both the animals and their owners, gathering information about the animal’s history and environment to inform your assessments.

You often work alongside veterinarians, trainers, shelter staff, and sometimes researchers, forming a network to support the animal’s health and behavior. Collaboration is key, as you share insights and coordinate approaches to ensure the best outcomes for the animals.

Your work includes creating behavior modification plans tailored to each animal’s needs and coaching owners on how to implement these strategies effectively. Follow-up visits or calls help you monitor progress and adjust plans as necessary, ensuring ongoing support and success.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Observe and analyze animal behavior in natural and controlled settings.
• Identify causes of behavioral problems based on observation and owner reports.
• Develop individualized behavior modification plans for animals.
• Educate and guide owners on implementing behavioral strategies.
• Collaborate with veterinarians and other animal care professionals.
• Monitor and document changes in animal behavior over time.
• Provide ongoing support and adjust plans as needed to improve outcomes.

Skills and traits

Empathy

Understanding the emotions and needs of both animals and their owners helps you build trust and communicate effectively. Empathy allows you to approach sensitive situations with care and patience.

Observational skills

Careful observation is crucial for accurately identifying behavioral issues and triggers. It enables you to gather detailed information that forms the basis of your assessments and interventions.

Communication

Clear and compassionate communication helps you explain complex behavior concepts to owners and motivate them to follow through with plans. Good communication also fosters teamwork with other professionals.

Problem-solving

You need to analyze behavior patterns and devise practical strategies to address problems. Creative problem-solving helps you tailor solutions to each animal’s unique situation.

Patience

Behavior change often takes time, so patience is essential when working with animals and guiding owners through gradual progress. It helps you maintain a positive attitude despite challenges.

Collaboration

Working effectively with veterinarians, trainers, and shelter staff enhances the quality of care for animals. Collaboration ensures a comprehensive approach to behavioral issues.

Which personality fits?

Your RIASEC profile shows a strong Social orientation at 85%, indicating you are highly motivated by helping others and working closely with people and animals. This aligns well with the supportive and communicative aspects of the animal behaviorist role, where you guide owners and collaborate with professionals.

The Investigative score of 70% reflects your interest in understanding complex problems and applying scientific methods to analyze behavior. This curiosity and analytical mindset are essential for assessing animal actions and developing effective interventions. With Enterprising at 50%, you also have a moderate drive to take initiative and lead projects, which helps in managing cases and educating clients.

Education and route

Typically, becoming an animal behaviorist at the MBO level involves vocational training focused on animal care, biology, or related fields. These programs provide practical skills and foundational knowledge about animal behavior and welfare.

Internships or apprenticeships are common components of vocational education, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or training centers. This practical exposure is invaluable for developing observational and communication skills.

While there are no specific degree programs required for this level, general animal care or veterinary assistant courses often include relevant modules on behavior. Continuous learning and professional development through workshops or seminars can enhance your expertise and career prospects.

Pay and career progression

Your pay as an animal behaviorist varies depending on factors such as experience, the sector you work in (private practice, shelters, or education), and the region or country. Generally, gaining more experience and building a strong reputation can lead to better remuneration and job opportunities.

Career progression may involve specializing in certain species or behavior problems, moving into supervisory roles, or expanding into related fields like animal training or welfare consultancy. Some behaviorists also establish their own practices or work as independent consultants, increasing their professional autonomy.

Where do you work?

Animal shelters

Providing behavioral assessments and rehabilitation plans to improve adoptability and well-being of shelter animals.

Private practice

Working directly with pet owners to address behavioral issues and enhance the human-animal bond.

Veterinary clinics

Collaborating with veterinarians to support animal health through behavior management.

Training centers

Assisting trainers by analyzing behavior and advising on modification techniques.

Research institutions

Studying animal behavior patterns to contribute to scientific knowledge and practical applications.

Pros and cons

Pros

• You get to work closely with animals and make a positive impact on their lives.
• The role offers variety through different species and behavior challenges.
• You develop strong interpersonal skills by working with diverse clients and professionals.
• The job provides opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth.

Cons

• Behavior problems can be complex and emotionally challenging to resolve.
• You may face unpredictable or stressful situations when working with animals.
• Work hours can vary and sometimes include evenings or weekends.
• Income levels may be modest, especially early in your career.

The future of this career

Advances in technology, such as behavior tracking devices and video analysis, are changing how animal behaviorists observe and assess animals. These tools allow for more precise data collection and better-informed interventions.

Societal awareness of animal welfare continues to grow, increasing demand for behavior experts and expanding the scope of your work. This shift encourages more holistic approaches that consider both animal and owner well-being.

Does Animal behaviorist suit you?

• Do you enjoy observing animals closely and noticing subtle behavior patterns?
• Are you comfortable communicating clearly and empathetically with pet owners?
• Do you like solving problems and developing practical strategies?
• Can you remain patient and persistent when progress is slow?
• Do you enjoy working collaboratively with other animal care professionals?

Frequently asked questions about Animal behaviorist

What education do I need to become an animal behaviorist?

At the MBO level, vocational training in animal care or related fields is typical. Internships provide valuable hands-on experience, and ongoing learning helps build expertise.

Is this job suitable for people who love animals?

Yes, a passion for animals is essential since you work closely with them daily and need to understand their needs and behaviors.

What about the workload and hours?

Work hours can vary depending on your employer and clients, sometimes including evenings or weekends to accommodate animal needs and owner schedules.

Can I change careers to become an animal behaviorist?

Career changers can enter this field through vocational training and practical experience, especially if they have a strong interest in animal welfare.

How much can I expect to earn?

Pay depends on experience, sector, and location, so it varies widely. Building experience and reputation generally improves earning potential.

Do I need a license to work as an animal behaviorist?

Licensing requirements vary by country and employer; there is no universal license required at the MBO level, but some employers may have specific criteria.

Next step

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