Dog Trainer Certifications
Certifications with the International Association of Canine Professionals
Founded in 1999, the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) established a high standard of practice for the industry and still strives to maintain recognition of this high standard for its members and the general public.
The IACP’s Certification Committee oversees certifications issued by the organization. This is achieved by establishing examinations based on clear standards for dog trainers and dog training instructors.
A major component of maintaining high standards is the continued growth and collaboration amongst senior professional peers within our industry. Early in 2020, the IACP Certification Committee embarked on revising exam contents and formatting, following the national accreditation standards set forth by the Institute of Credentialing Excellence (ICE).
Developing appropriate national and international standards has been complex due to the continued debates over “tools and methods” as opposed to recognizing only the evolving nature of canine training. The number of diverse training philosophies and the skill to effectively use them is a combination of art and science. Using standards similar to other government-regulated or licensed professions ensures our certification program takes this into account. IACP, as an international association, focuses our evaluation on the demonstrated humane training techniques and approaches used by canines professionals. We assess the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA) of each trainer via a comprehensive evaluation of references of professionals with personal knowledge of the trainer, client feedback, as well as written and video submissions from the trainers seeking certification.
The IACP does not discriminate against training methods, tools or techniques in its certification exams but rather examines each dog trainer’s abilities to incorporate them effectively and humanely into a sound and well-rounded training program. All IACP certificants are held to the IACP Code of Conduct and the IACP Certificant Code of Ethics.
Note: Due to ongoing and continuous improvement efforts, some of the IACP certifications may be periodically placed on hold for revision. Certificants starting the process for a specific certification will be held to the standards of the version they are authorized to start under.In the event that the time period is passed without successful completion, certificates may be held to the new standard if the exam was revised in the interim.
Need to Renew Your Certification?
IACP Prong Collar Knowledge Assessment (PCKA)
The International Association of Canine Professionals is proud to relaunch the Prong Collar Knowledge Assessment! This assessment is available to both members and nonmembers. The assessment tests your knowledge on the basic usage of the prong collar. Hosted through a third party platform, the assessment is conducted through multiple choice questions and utilizes text, image, and video demonstrations. It should take less than 20 minutes to complete and those who finish will receive an immediate result. If you successfully pass the Prong Collar Knowledge Assessment, you will receive a digital certificate of your achievement.
To successfully pass the Prong Collar Knowledge Assessment, you must score a 90% or above. If you do not receive a passing grade on your first attempt, you will get one additional retake. If you do not receive a passing grade after your second attempt, you will not pass the Prong Collar Knowledge Assessment. You can purchase the assessment again at another time to retake the assessment.
Pricing
Members: $89
Non-members: $159
The PCKA is facilitated by the Teachable website. In order to take the PCKA,you will need to create a separate account on Teachable.com
IACP Certified Dog Trainer Exam (CDT)
The International Association of Canine Professionals Certified Dog Trainer Exam (CDT) is an assessment that is designed to assess well-rounded Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA) by recognizing a dog’s temperament, how to shape its behavior, and the ability to educate the dog’s owners. The portfolio assessment itself is a combination of written narrative reports and written client feedback that are reviewed by a panel of professional peers.
The Certified Dog Trainer Exam is a three part process. It requires an initial application, a completed exam portfolio and client references from each case study. The exam is administered by the IACP electronically and applicants can take the exam at their own pace, from home or on a mobile device. The CDT exam portfolio must be completed and submitted within 6 months of the issued date.
Pricing
Members: $249.99
IACP’s Certified Dog Trainer Title
The Certified Dog Trainer (CDT) program offered by the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) is a prestigious certification that represents a high standard of professionalism in the dog training industry. This program is designed for trainers who are committed to advancing their knowledge, skills, and ethical practices while ensuring the best outcomes for both dogs and their owners.
What sets the IACP’s certification apart is its rigorous, comprehensive approach that blends practical experience with theoretical knowledge. The certification process emphasizes an understanding of canine behavior, training techniques, and canine learning. In addition to technical proficiency, it also requires trainers to demonstrate a commitment to the IACP’s code of ethics, ensuring that certified professionals are held to the highest standards of integrity and compassion.
By earning this certification, trainers not only distinguish themselves as experts in their field, but also gain access to a community of like-minded professionals dedicated to continuous learning and ethical practice. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer or an aspiring professional, the IACP Certified Dog Trainer program elevates your expertise and enhances your credibility, helping you stand out in an increasingly competitive industry.
Ensuring Quality and Safety
A certified dog trainer demonstrates proficiency in essential areas such as canine behavior, training methods, communication, and problem-solving. By evaluating trainers through a rigorous certification exam, we ensure that those with a strong understanding of dog behavior and effective training techniques are certified. This is vital for the safety and well-being of the dogs in the trainers care, as improper training can lead to further behavioral issues, prolonged training programs financially costing owners exponentially, or even harm to the animal. It also safeguards the integrity of the training process for dog owners, ensuring they receive responsible, effective guidance.
Promoting Ethical Standards
A dog trainer’s ethical standards are as important as their technical skills. Trainers often have significant influence over the lives of both the dog and its owner, and it is essential that they maintain an appropriately effective and humane approach to training. The IACP CDT exam incorporates ethical considerations and reinforces the need for trainers to respect the welfare of animals while maintaining the efficiency and lasting results of training. This approach fosters long-term success and strengthens the bond between dogs and their owners.
Enhancing Professional Recognition
Certification provides trainers with professional recognition that can elevate their credibility within the industry. Qualified and trained evaluators rigorously assess candidates, making the certification a respected standard in the dog training community. This acknowledgment helps build trust with clients, who can be confident that their trainer has met a high standard of competence. In turn, this contributes to the reputation and growth of the dog training profession as a whole.
Encouraging Ongoing Education and Development
IACP’s CDT well-structured certification process not only evaluates current knowledge but also encourages continuous learning and improvement. Trainers who seek certification are more likely to invest in their professional development, keeping abreast of the latest research, techniques, and best practices in the field. This emphasis on lifelong learning ensures that the standards of training remain high and that trainers are equipped to handle a wide variety of challenges, from basic obedience to complex behavioral issues.
Building Consumer Confidence
Dog owners are increasingly looking for trainers who are qualified and trustworthy. In a market where untrained or poorly trained individuals may offer services, certification provides transparency and accountability. It reassures clients that they are hiring a professional who has been evaluated and verified, leading to higher levels of trust and satisfaction. As the demand for professional dog training continues to grow, it is crucial that the IACP certification process reflects the evolving needs and expectations of the public.
The Future of Dog Training
The certification of dog trainers is not just about ensuring that trainers possess the necessary technical skills; it is about establishing a standard that guarantees safety, professionalism, ethics, and ongoing development. By thoroughly evaluating CDT candidates, we contribute to raising the bar for the entire industry and ensuring that trainers are equipped to provide the highest level of service to both dogs and their owners. The impact of our programs extend far beyond individual trainers – it shapes the future of dog training as a respected, essential profession.