Certification Tracks

Trainer rewarding a beagle during a training assessment

Certified Professional Dog Trainer

Our foundational credential covering learning theory, humane training methods and hands-on skills assessment.

Exam windows open quarterly

Working dog performing bite-work training drill

Certified Behavior Consultant

An advanced credential for trainers working with aggression, anxiety and other behavior modification cases.

Requires 2 years supervised practice

Dog on leash during a training evaluation

Recertification

Maintain your credential with continuing education hours and a renewal review every two years.

Rolling enrollment

Exam Handbook

Every candidate receives a full handbook outlining the knowledge domains covered on the written exam and the skills demonstrated during the practical assessment. Handbooks are updated annually to reflect current research in applied animal behavior.

Deadlines & Fees

Exam registration closes four weeks before each testing window. Fee schedules vary by track and are published on each candidate's application portal.