Frequently Asked Questions

Certification

Re-certification

What is certification?
Certification is a form of credentialing. A credential is a designation which indicates competence in a subject or area. Certification is usually a voluntary process instituted by a nongovernmental agency in which individuals are recognized for advanced knowledge and skill. Certification requires assessment, including testing, and an evaluation of education and/or experience.

Why certify dog trainers?
Establishing a credentialing program enhances the reputation of a profession. A certification program is NOT an endorsement of an individual by the organization. Certification is a voluntary program, unlike licensing which is not voluntary for professions such as physicians, nurses, and psychologists.

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How are the standards set?
The CCPDT works with experts in national certification processes in order to assure the authenticity of the program. By securing the expertise of the Professional Testing Company (PTC), the CCPDT has developed a basic, level 1 examination to evaluate individuals who wish to validate a basic knowledge of dog training. The CCPDT issues a certificate indicating that the individual has met the minimum experience and educational level, and passed the CCPDDT examination.

What information is tested in the examination?
The certification exam was designed to assess the knowledge deemed necessary by the education committee (APDT) for an entry level trainer. Eligibility requirements are detailed in the “Handbook for Candidates" available from PTC. The test questions are in multiple choice format and are based on the general knowledge of dog behavior and application of training techniques in five content areas: Learning/Theory, Instruction Skills, Husbandry, Ethology, Equipment.

Multiple-choice formats are used for the Level 1 examination, which is the most frequently used in national examinations to validate a candidate’s competence to perform the work of the profession.

Will exceptions be made to allow testing under certain conditions at other facilities?
Exceptions are allowed for testing at other facilities, or to set up new test sites. Details are outlined in the Test Handbook.

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Can an applicant become a 'Certified Pet Dog Trainer' without taking the examination?
No, the certification process is a standardized program specifically designed for fair treatment of all candidates. The only way to ensure the integrity of this standardized process is to require that all candidates are assessed equally.

How can dog owners find Certified Pet Dog Trainers in their area?
Certified Pet Dog Trainers (CPDT’s) are listed on the Council website at www.ccpdt.org. All CPDT’s who are active & full members of the APDT are published in the Member News Bulletin, and on the APDT trainer locator at: www.apdt.com

When are the tests given?
National administrations of the are administered in March and November. A third annual administration is conducted at the APDT annual conference site. Check the website for exact dates and site locations.

How is the Certification Council supported?
The council is a private non-profit organization. The Council depends in part on sponsorships for support. As a Certified Pet Dog Trainer, your input regarding sponsorship or potential sponsors are welcome.

Contact for Information about certification, sponsorship, item writing and testing materials:

Mimi Eckert, CCPDT Administrator
E mail: meckert@ccpdt.org
Phone: 212-356-0682

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How is the CCPDT managed?
The CCPDT has a volunteer board with administrative assistance provided under a contract with Professional Testing Corporation. Our board donates hundreds of hours towards the goal of certification of dog trainers. The CPDT reimburses the board members for direct expenses only, (i.e., travel to the item review meetings, conference calls etc).

What is the tax status of the CCPDT?
CCPDT is a tax exempt corporation under Section 501(c)(6) of the I.R.C.

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Can CPDTs contribute to the development of this program?
Item writing; if you have expertise in one of the knowledge areas included on the test, you may develop multiple choice questions and submit them for possible inclusion into the item bank from which tests are developed. For information contact Mimi Eckert.

Re-certification

How was the re-certification fee determined?
The re-certification fee is based on cost estimates for the processing fee paid to PTC; re-certification materials; postage; and future development of the program. Each re-certification costs the CCPDT approximately $75.00. After this expense, the remainder goes directly into program development. Program development includes development of Level II certification, marketing, and consumer awareness.

May CEU's earned in excess of the re-certification minimum be carried forward to the next re-certification period?
No. One of the requirements and objectives of certification is for trainers to remain current on new research and new training methods.

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Under what circumstances may a CPDT earn partial CEU credits?
Initially, ceu's were only given in full hours. The CCPDT has changed the policy to include the opportunity to earn ½ credits. Half ceus will be given if a program runs at least 30 minutes past the hour but less than a complete hour. For example, if a program runs for 3 hours and 15 minutes, you will earn 3 ceus. If the program runs for either 3 hours and 30 minutes or 3 hours and 45 minutes, you will earn 3.5 ceus.

How can I get CEU information?
The application and instructions for CEU accreditation is available on the CCPDT website, at www.ccpdt.com. The Program Manager maintains copies of all documents.

Will there be a financial aid program for continuing education?
There are no plans for financial aid at this time; however, this may become a goal of the program in the future.

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