The Dogenius Institute - Make animals' lives
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ABTC Recognised Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Animal Behaviour (120 credits)

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Why Study with The DoGenius Institute?

At The DoGenius Institute, we don’t just deliver content — we cultivate professionals. Founded by experienced Clinical Animal Behaviourists and educators, our mission is to raise the standard of behaviour education through academic excellence, personal support, and ethical practice.

Unlike many providers that offer generic correspondence-style courses, we take an active, hands-on approach to your learning journey. Every student is part of a professional learning community and receives:

  • One-to-one academic tutoring with experienced CABs who know what it takes to succeed in the field

  • Tailored feedback and mentorship that goes beyond grading to truly develop your critical thinking

  • Live sessions, interactive study groups, and peer discussion forums that develop connection and collaboration

  • A vibrant and responsive support system, with access to your tutors when you need it — not just through automated emails

  • An extensive academic library and carefully curated resources to support evidence-based learning

  • Ongoing professional development, not just a qualification

Our ethos is simple: to nurture capable, confident behaviour professionals who are ethically grounded, scientifically informed, and genuinely supported. That’s why DoGenius students consistently go further, think deeper, and shine brighter.


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"I loved doing DGI courses and the contact between students and tutors. That's something I missed in other courses."

"I highly recommend any of The DoGenius courses. The quality of the content, teaching, and support is exceptional. I am thoroughly enjoying the Level 6 Diploma. This course and various webinars have opened up a whole new level of learning for me."

Why should I take this course?

This ABTC-recognised Level 6 programme is designed specifically for those seeking to gain the theoretical knowledge and understanding required for registration as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CAB) with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council, without having to attend university or go through the ABTC APEL process. It offers a robust, evidence-based curriculum that explores the science of animal behaviour, clinical assessment, and professional practice.  This course provides the essential academic foundation for those working towards CAB status — making it ideal for individuals ready to deepen their expertise and pursue professional recognition in the field of clinical animal behaviour.



About This Course

This ABTC-recognised Level 6 programme in Clinical Animal Behaviour offers university-level education with the flexibility and support of a dedicated online learning environment.

Designed for those aspiring to meet the theoretical requirements for ABTC Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CAB) registration, the course delivers rigorous, evidence-based content equivalent to an undergraduate or graduate-level qualification with 120 credits.

What sets this programme apart is the level of personal attention and professional support students receive.

You’ll benefit from one-to-one tuition and mentoring from experienced, practicing CABs, ensuring your learning is not only academically robust but grounded in real-world clinical insight.

Collaborative study groups, active peer discussion forums, and access to an extensive digital library create a rich, engaging learning experience — all from the convenience of your own space and schedule.

Whether you're progressing from prior qualifications or already working in the field, this course offers a clear and supportive route to deepen your knowledge, enhance your credibility, and work towards professional CAB recognition with confidence.


"Exceptional courses. Thank you"

What's Included?

  • ABTC Recognised Programme
  • Monthly 1-2-1's with your Tutor
  • Live Teaching Events
  • Peer Review Groups
  • Study Groups
  • Enriched Learning
  • Responsive & Timely Support
  • Study on your Schedule
  • Entry to our Private Community
  • Generous Study Time (with extensions available)

Blog Link: What ABTC Recognition means
Mentoring: Mentoring with Craig Ogilvie

Contents

Animal Behaviour and Welfare

Explore the biological, psychological, and environmental influences on animal behaviour across species, with an emphasis on welfare, ethology, and species-specific needs.
Topics include:

  • Normal and abnormal behaviour in companion animals (dogs, cats, and others)

  • Species-specific communication, development, and social structures

  • The evolutionary function and motivation behind behaviours

  • Breed, genetics, and environmental influences

  • Assessing and promoting animal welfare


Learning Theory, Health & Behaviour

Understand the scientific principles of learning and how physical and emotional health impact behaviour. This module lays the foundation for evidence-based intervention planning.
Topics include:

  • Classical and operant conditioning, social learning, and motivation

  • The neurobiology and physiology of behaviour

  • Pain, illness, and medical differentials in behavioural cases

  • Behavioural signs of emotional and physical distress

  • Applying theory to behaviour change programmes

Clinical Procedures, Law & Ethics

Build clinical competence in behaviour assessment, professional communication, and ethical practice. You'll also explore the legal responsibilities of working with animals and clients.
Topics include:

  • Gathering and interpreting behavioural histories

  • Case formulation and behavioural diagnosis

  • Working within veterinary referral frameworks

  • Safeguarding, data protection, and animal-related legislation

  • Professional codes of conduct and ethical decision-making


Critical Analysis & Research

Develop academic and professional literacy by engaging critically with research, writing, and reflective practice. Learn how to evaluate evidence and apply it in a clinical context.
Topics include:

  • Academic research methods and scientific writing

  • Critical thinking and evaluating sources

  • Evidence-based practice in behaviour work

  • Reflective practice and continued professional development (CPD)

  • Staying current with emerging science and professional discourse


Frequently asked questions

Who is this course suitable for?

This course is ideal for individuals aiming to become a Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CAB) and who need to complete the theoretical component required for ABTC registration. It’s also suited to professionals in veterinary, training, or behaviour roles looking to deepen their academic knowledge. Applicants must have a minimum of a recognised Level 5 qualification or equivalent, in a related subject to enrol.

Does this course include practical training or assessments?

No, this is a theory-only programme. It provides the knowledge and understanding required for CAB registration but does not include practical skills training or supervised clinical hours as these have usually already been achieved at Level 5.

Is this course equivalent to a university degree?

Yes, this is a Level 6 qualification, equivalent in academic level to the final year of a UK undergraduate degree. It delivers rigorous, evidence-based content aligned with professional standards and is 120 credits.

How is the course delivered?

The course is delivered entirely online, allowing you to study from anywhere. You’ll have access to structured modules, an extensive digital library, recorded and live sessions, peer discussion groups, and one-to-one tuition from experienced CAB tutors.

How long does the course take to complete?

Course duration can vary depending on your pace and chosen study schedule. Most learners complete the programme within 24 months, with flexibility to fit around professional or personal commitments. The course is 120 credits, which equates to 1200 hours of study. We recommend allowing 10-15 hours study time a week.

Will I be eligible for ABTC CAB registration after completing this course?

This course meets the academic requirements for ABTC CAB recognition. To complete the full CAB pathway, you’ll also need to fulfil the practical and clinical experience requirements set by the ABTC and complete a full assessment of competence.

Is this course focused only on dogs, or does it cover other species too?

This is a multi-species course designed to reflect the full scope of clinical animal behaviour practice. While dogs are a common focus, the course also explores the behavioural science, clinical approaches, and species-specific considerations relevant to cats, horses and other companion animals, ensuring a well-rounded and transferable knowledge base.

96% of our students state that they recommend our courses to others.

Programme lead

Deb Bennison

Deb Bennison BSc. PGCE. PG Cert. (CAB Edin). 

After a 34 year career as a science teacher Deb now runs a dog behaviour business as well as being a tutor and mentor for upcoming animal behaviourists.

From her involvement in competitive dog training in the 1980s, Deb has learned much and continues to study Clinical Animal Behaviour at postgraduate level. 

Deb is a full member of International Canine Behaviourists (ICB) and supports the work of ABTC by being an assessor for the APEL process. As an experienced teacher and vocational assessor, Deb understands the importance of helping students to learn in ways that work to their individual experiences and learning needs. Outside of these roles Deb enjoys long beach walks with Heidi her GSD and short hacks on Cluedo her Connemara pony.
Patrick Jones - Course author
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