Credentials
In an unregulated industry, credentials matter
Did you know dog training is unregulated internationally? Anyone can call themselves a dog trainer, regardless of their education, experience, or methods. There are no legal requirements, no minimum standards, and no oversight to protect you or your dog.
That's why professional certification has always mattered to me. It's about accountability, ongoing education, and a genuine commitment to doing this work well.
I hold five professional certifications, including four internationally recognized credentials that require extensive education, documented practical experience, rigorous examination, and ongoing professional development.
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
The IAABC is the leading professional organization for animal behavior consultants worldwide. I hold two credentials through the IAABC, both of which require significant education, experience, and demonstrated competency.
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant
This is one of the most rigorous credentials in the dog training and behavior field. Earning it required extensive coursework in learning theory, behavior science, and ethology.
I documented detailed case studies of my work with complex behavior cases and passed a comprehensive written examination covering behavior theory, assessment, and modification protocols.
Accredited Dog Trainer
This credential recognizes professional trainers who work with ethical, science-based methods.
Earning it required documented training experience, education in learning theory and training methodology, references from other professionals in the field, and a commitment to the IAABC's code of ethics and standards of practice.
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
The CCPDT is an independent certifying organization that sets professional standards for dog trainers and behavior consultants. I hold two certifications through the CCPDT, both earned through rigorous examination and maintained through continuing education.
Certified Behavior Consultant Canine, Knowledge Assessed
This is an advanced certification for professionals working with behavior cases.
To qualify, I documented at least 300 hours of behavior consulting experience separate from general training work, and passed an in-depth exam covering canine behavior assessment, behavior modification protocols, and case management.
Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed
This was one of my first professional certifications and remains a respected credential in the industry.
To earn it, I documented at least 300 hours of dog training experience within the three years before testing, and passed a comprehensive exam covering learning theory, training techniques, instructional skills, and professional ethics.
Fear Free and Professional Memberships
Beyond my core credentials, I hold a certification focused on low-stress care and stay connected to the professional training community.
Fear Free Certified Professional Certification
Fear Free was founded by veterinarians and animal behavior professionals to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. This certification covers low-stress handling and recognizing and responding to signs of fear and anxiety in dogs, and it's renewed each year with continuing education. It reflects my commitment to working with dogs in a way that puts how they feel first, not just how they perform.
Learn about Fear Free ↗Association of Professional Dog Trainers Member
A professional association for dog trainers focused on education, humane training, and connecting trainers with current research.
Continuing Education
Certification isn't a one-time achievement. Every credential I hold requires continuing education to maintain, and this matters to me beyond meeting requirements. It's how I stay informed, refine my skills, and make sure I'm offering the best support possible.
I've completed hundreds of hours of continuing education, including:
- Behavior modification protocols
- Learning theory
- Fear and anxiety in dogs
- Aggression assessment and management
- Separation anxiety treatment
- Canine body language
- Trauma-informed training
- Fearful and reactive dogs
I attend seminars, workshops, and conferences. I study with leading experts, read current research, and take part in mentorship and case consultation groups. Research evolves and methods improve, and staying current matters to me because I want to do this work responsibly and ethically.
When you work with me, you're working with someone who has invested years in understanding how dogs learn, how behavior works, and how to help in ways that are safe, effective, and grounded in science.