Education & Credentials
Did you know internationally dog training is an unregulated industry. 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 not just about credentials. It's about accountability, ongoing education, and a genuine commitment to doing this work well.
I hold multiple nationally and internationally recognized certifications that require extensive education, documented practical experience, rigorous examination, and ongoing professional development. These credentials reflect years of work and a continued commitment to ethical, science-based training and behavior consulting.
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 (CDBC)
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 (IAABC-ADT)
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 Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
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.
Certified Behavior Consultant Canine - Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA)
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.
Continuing Education
Certification isn't a one-time achievement. Every credential I hold requires continuing education units to maintain, and this matters to me beyond just meeting requirements. It's how I stay informed, refine my skills, and make sure I'm offering the best support possible.
I've completed thousands of hours of continuing education in areas like behavior modification protocols, learning theory, fear and anxiety in dogs, aggression assessment and management, separation anxiety treatment, canine body language and communication, trauma-informed training approaches, and working with fearful and reactive dogs.
I attend seminars, workshops, and conferences. I study with leading experts in the field. I read current research. I participate in mentorship and case consultation groups. This work continues to evolve, and so does my education.
The dog training industry changes. Research evolves. Methods improve. 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 into understanding how dogs learn, how behavior works, and how to help in ways that are safe, effective, and grounded in science. That's what these credentials represent, and that's what I bring to every session.
Get Started
The first step is a complimentary phone consultation. Together, we'll talk through what's happening with your dog, what's most important to you, We'll also go over pricing, availability, and what working together might look like. From there, we can figure out together what makes the most sense for you and your dog.