A Comprehensive Guide to the Various Types of Dog Training Certifications

Dog training is a rapidly growing field, with more owners seeking professional help to train their canine companions. This rising demand has led to the creation of numerous dog training certifications that aim to establish standards and show prospective clients that a trainer has the required skills and knowledge

But with so many options available it can get overwhelming trying to determine which certification is right for you and your training goals. This guide provides a deep dive into the major types of dog training certifications their requirements, and benefits to help you make an informed decision.

Overview of the Main Dog Training Certifications

Here is a quick overview of some of the most popular and respected dog training certifications

• Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) – Offered by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), this certification focuses on foundational dog training knowledge and skills.

• Accredited Pet Dog Trainer (APDT) – Focuses on positive reinforcement methods, offered by the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT).

• Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC) – Specialized certification in canine behavior consulting from the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).

• Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI) – Certification in trick training from Do More With Your Dog (DMWYD).

• Certified Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CDT-KA) – Advanced certification from CCPDT requiring experience and exam.

• KPA Certification – Positive reinforcement certification from the Karen Pryor Academy.

• Victoria Stilwell Dog Trainer Academy (VSDTA) – Certification focused on positive training.

Let’s look at each of these popular certifications in more detail:

Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT)

The CPDT is one of the most well-known and respected dog trainer certifications. To qualify, candidates must have at least 300 hours of dog training experience and pass a comprehensive exam.

The exam covers important topics including:

• Principles of animal behavior and learning
• Reinforcement procedures
• Positive training techniques
• Ethology and developmental stages
• Canine communication
• Husbandry and welfare
• Instruction skills

Earning the CPDT certification demonstrates thorough foundational knowledge and a commitment to humane, science-based training methods. It can improve client trust and satisfaction.

Accredited Pet Dog Trainer (APDT)

The APDT certification focuses on positive, non-aversive training techniques. It is offered by the Association of Professional Dog Trainers.

To become certified, trainers must accumulate a required number of training hours. They must then pass a written exam on various topics like:

• Learning theory
• Canine behavior
• Training equipment
• Business practices

There is also a practical hands-on exam to demonstrate training abilities.

APDT certification shows clients a trainer’s expertise in humane, reward-based methods resulting in motivated dogs.

Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC)

The CBCC certification from the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants is ideal for trainers interested in canine behavior consulting.

To get certified, candidates must have experience handling canine behavior cases and pass in-depth exams. These evaluations cover:

• Behavior consultation
• Developing behavior modification plans
• Learning and behavior science
• Ethical considerations

The CBCC certification allows trainers to advertise their specialized expertise in addressing problematic dog behaviors through consulting services.

Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI)

This unique certification focuses on teaching dogs fun tricks and impressive routines. It is offered by the organization Do More With Your Dog.

To earn CTDI certification, trainers must demonstrate their skills by submitting videos of their training and the tricks taught to dogs.

This certification can help distinguish a trainer skilled in creative trick training to entertain and engage dogs and owners.

Certified Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CDT-KA)

The CDT-KA is an advanced certification from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, requiring more experience than the CPDT.

Candidates must have at least 800 hours of training experience and 4 years in the industry to qualify. The comprehensive exam covers advanced concepts like:

• Canine health and development
• Complex problem behaviors
• Science-based training methods
• Professional ethics and standards

Earning this prestigious certification demonstrates a trainer’s exceptional experience and expertise in dog training and behavior.

KPA Certification

Offered by the Karen Pryor Academy, this certification focuses on positive reinforcement and force-free training methods.

Trainers must complete courses on topics like:

• Clicker training
• Training shelter dogs
• Behavior analysis

To earn certification, trainees must pass an exam and hand in videos displaying their training skills.

The KPA certification aligns trainers with a trusted philosophy and school of positive dog training.

Victoria Stilwell Dog Trainer Academy (VSDTA)

This certification involves an online course and exam focused on positive reinforcement and science-based training techniques. Key topics include:

• Learning theory
• Correcting problem behaviors
• Handling skills
• Business building

VSDTA certification helps trainers gain recognition for using proven, humane methods endorsed by famous dog trainer Victoria Stilwell.

Benefits of Obtaining Dog Training Certifications

Earning a recognized certification offers many advantages:

• Credibility and trust – Certification builds confidence in a trainer’s skills and expertise. Clients often favor certified trainers.

• Career advancement – Certifications open up job opportunities, ability to charge higher rates, and establish a training business.

• Networking – Belonging to a certifying organization provides a community to exchange ideas and continuously improve skills.

• Standardized knowledge – Certification criteria ensure trainers have mastered a core curriculum and training philosophy.

• Accountability – Reputable certifying organizations hold trainers accountable to ethical codes and standards.

Depending on your specialization and career goals, carefully research the qualifications and advantages of each certification to choose the optimal program for you.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Training Certification

As you evaluate different certifications, keep the following key factors in mind:

• Reputation of certifying organization – Opt for well-established organizations with rigorous standards.

• Areas covered in curriculum – Ensure the certification aligns with your niche, whether behavior consulting, trick training, etc.

• Hands-on component – Look for a certification that evaluates real-world handling and instruction skills, not just book knowledge.

• Continuing education – Some certifications require ongoing learning to uphold standards and renew certification.

• Cost – Make sure the program fits your budget and offers good value for money based on curriculum.

• Location – For in-person certifications, find ones accessible to your area. Online certifications allow more flexibility.

Choosing a certification backed by a respected organization with comprehensive curriculum and standards can help launch and boost your dog training career.

Breakdown of Popular Specialty Dog Training Certifications

Beyond the foundational certifications in general dog obedience and behavior, there are also numerous specialty certifications available.

Let’s look at some popular specialty certifications:

Service Dog Training Certifications

• Assistance Dogs International (ADI) – Certification in training assistance dogs for disabled individuals.

• Guide Dog Foundation – Teaches handling of guide dogs for the blind and visually impaired.

Therapy Dog Training Certifications

• Therapy Dogs International (TDI) – Certifies therapy dog teams who volunteer at healthcare facilities, schools, etc.

• Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD) – Therapy dog certification involving obedience, skills and temperament tests.

Detection Dog Training Certifications

• NACSW – Certifies trainers of dogs who detect scents for law enforcement, arson investigation, wildlife tracking, etc.

• NADD – Scent detection certification for dogs who find pests, mold, bedbugs, and other targets.

Sports Dog Training Certifications

• USDAA – Certification focused on training dogs for agility, obedience, jumping and other sports.

• UKC – Certifies trainers proficient in preparing dogs for United Kennel Club performance events.

Protection and Bite Dog Training Certifications

• IACP – Certifies trainers in protection dog training covering safety, control and standards.

• NPCA – Protection dog training certification designed specifically for law enforcement K9 handlers.

Online vs In-Person Dog Training Certifications

Dog training certifications are offered through both online and in-person formats, each with their own pros and cons.

Online certifications allow for:

• Learning on a flexible schedule
• Accessibility from anywhere
• Lower cost through eliminating travel

In-person certifications provide:

• Hands-on training and practice
• Direct feedback from instructors
• Networking and collabor