Understand Dogs at a Deeper Level—Through Science, Not Opinion
If you work with dogs at a high level, you already know how easy it is to get caught in methods, routines, and habits. The IACP Canine Science Summit was created to challenge that—to bring you back to the foundation of why dogs behave the way they do, and how a deeper understanding of that science can transform the way you train.
Taking place on August 17, 2026, in Newport Beach, California, this full-day event sets the tone for the IACP Annual Conference and offers something truly different. This isn’t about trends or opinions. It’s about stepping into a room with some of the most respected minds in canine behavior and walking away with a clearer, sharper perspective on your work.
Throughout the day, you’ll hear from an exceptional lineup of speakers, including Dr. Melanie Uhde, Roberto Barata, Dr. Monique Udell, Dr. Clive Wynne, and Dr. Roger Abrantes. Each brings a unique perspective grounded in research, experience, and real-world application. It’s rare to see this level of expertise gathered in one place, and even rarer to have the opportunity to learn from all of them in a single day.
The summit concludes with an interactive panel discussion, giving you a front-row seat to a genuine exchange of ideas between these experts. It’s an opportunity to hear different viewpoints, explore complex topics, and see how science continues to shape the future of dog training.
The event will be held at the Hyatt Newport Beach, providing a comfortable and professional setting just ahead of the IACP Annual Conference. Lunch will be provided, giving you time to connect with other attendees, continue conversations, and build relationships with others who are equally committed to growing in this field.
This summit is designed for professionals who want more than just techniques. It’s for those who want to think differently, ask better questions, and continue evolving in an industry that is constantly changing. Whether you’re working in detection, service dogs, law enforcement, or the private sector, the insights you gain here will carry directly into your work.
CEUs are available for IACP members, and seating for this event is limited. Once capacity is reached, registration will close.
If you’re planning to attend the IACP Annual Conference, arriving a day early for the Canine Science Summit is one of the best investments you can make in your professional development. And if you’re not—this event alone is worth the trip.
Tickets are expected to sell quickly. Secure your spot now and be part of a truly unique experience that brings science and application together in a way few events ever do.
An Unmatched Speaker Lineup!
Learn from the Leading Minds in Canine Science
Imagine stepping into a room where the leading minds in canine science aren’t just presenting—they’re accessible. Where the theories, research, and breakthroughs shaping the future of our industry are right in front of you… and you get to be part of the conversation.
Now imagine being able to tap directly into those minds—asking your questions, getting real answers, and walking away with insights you can actually apply.
At the 2026 IACP Canine Science Summit, that’s exactly what you get.
This is an interactive experience designed for engagement—not passive listening. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with presenters, ask questions in real time, and be part of meaningful discussions that go beyond the lecture.
This isn’t passive learning. This is real-time access. Real dialogue. Real understanding.
If you’ve ever wanted to go deeper, challenge ideas, or truly understand the “why” behind the science—this is your opportunity.
Come ready to engage. Come ready to think differently. Come ready to grow.
Dr. Melanie Uhde
The Ugly Truth of Good Stress -A Science-Based Framework for Raising Resilient Dogs
Dr. Melanie Uhde holds a PhD in Biology and has conducted postdoctoral research on gut-immune-brain interactions related to behavior and stress. She has authored 16 publications and studied anxiety disorders at Stanford. With over a decade of dog training experience, she specializes in canine athletic performance, bridging neuroscience and training to understand motivation, resilience, and long-term well-being in dogs.
Roger Abrantes
The Evolution of Canine Social Behaviour
Roger Abrantes, born September 4, 1951, in Portugal, is an ethologist (PhD in Evolutionary Biology and Ethology, and BA in Philosophy) belonging to the school of ethology founded by Konrad Lorenz, Nico Tinbergen, and Karl von Frisch, the author of 27 books in English, German, Spanish, Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Italian, and Czech, and numerous articles on behaviour.
Dr. Monique Udell
Dogs Who Thrive: Using Attachment Science to Promote Stronger Relationships and Raise Resilient Dogs
Dr. Udell is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist and Professor at Oregon State University, specializing in animal behavior, cognition, and learning. She earned her PhD in Behavioral Psychology and has experience as a trainer and consultant. Her research focuses on social behavior in dogs and cats, translating science into practical strategies to improve relationships, performance, and overall well-being.
Roberto Barata
Applied Fundamentals of Signal Precision in Interspecies Communication
Roberto Barata, founder of Human-Animal Science in Denmark, combines over 20 years of training experience with academic research in behavior and ethology. He has worked with multiple species and in diverse settings, from military dogs to research institutions. Known for challenging industry norms, he promotes critical thinking, effective communication, and practical application of scientific insights.
Clive Wynne
What's a Canine Behavioral Scientist Good For?
Clive Wynne is a Professor of Psychology at Arizona State University and Director of Research at Wolf Park. Educated in the UK, he has studied animal behavior worldwide. His work spans species from pigeons to marsupials. A prolific researcher and writer, Wynne contributes to major media and authored Dog Is Love, exploring the science behind canine affection.
