As a dog owner, the CCPDT understands how important it is for you to find a dog trainer that you can trust has the knowledge necessary to meet the needs of you and your dog. Dog training and behavior change is a science but it in not a regulated science. There is no licensing and no oversight. With the CCPDT designations, you can gain the confidence you need to choose a dog trainer for your dog.

Begin your search for a dog trainer by looking for the CPDT-KA designation. This stands for Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed and indicates that a dog trainer has a minimum of 300 hours of experience; references from a veterinarian, client, and colleague; and has passed a comprehensive, psychometrically sound examination testing the dog trainer?s knowledge of learning theory, canine ethology, animal husbandry, classroom management, teaching techniques, and more.

Next, go meet the trainer and ask to observe a training class. Are they professional in their appearance and in their marketing materials? Can they knowledgeably and clearly answer questions regarding dog training and their dog training methods? Do you feel comfortable with them personally??Are they patient and thorough in answering your questions or the questions of students in their classes? Do they have experience in working with the issues that you are experiencing with your dog? Can they provide references from clients?

There are also several things that should raise red caution flags in your assessment of a trainer. If the trainer talks about wolf behavior more than dog behavior, has a focus on dominance and submission, or bases their methods on force, they are not meeting the current standards of care in the dog training industry.

Our CPDT-KA designations gives you the assurance that the trainer has the knowledge necessary to train dogs and teach others to train their dogs. Your interview can tell you whether they can meet the individual needs of both you and your dog.