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Hello hello, Pet Parents! Carlos here. You might have noticed the letters "CDBC" and "CPDT-KA" after my name and wondered what they mean. These certifications represent years of education, hands-on experience, and a commitment to professional excellence in dog training and behavior consulting. Let’s break it down so you can better understand these (and other) credentials, why they matter, and how they can help you make informed decisions when hiring a trainer or behavior consultant.
1. What Is a CDBC?
CDBC stands for Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, a certification offered by the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). This credential is for professionals who specialize in solving complex behavior issues, such as aggression, anxiety, and fear-based behaviors.
What It Takes to Earn a CDBC:
Extensive Experience: Requires at least 500 hours of consulting experience in dog behavior.
Education: Applicants must demonstrate a strong foundation in animal behavior science, including coursework or equivalent knowledge in ethology, learning theory, and animal husbandry.
Assessment: Passing a rigorous application process, including case studies and references from clients and colleagues.
Continuing Education: Certification must be renewed every 5 years, with proof of ongoing professional development.
Why It Matters:
A CDBC shows that a professional is equipped to handle serious behavior challenges with a science-based, force-free approach.
2. What Is a CPDT-KA?
CPDT-KA stands for Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed, a certification offered by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). This credential is designed for trainers who work on obedience, manners, and foundational training.
What It Takes to Earn a CPDT-KA:
Experience: Requires at least 300 hours of hands-on dog training experience within the past 3 years.
Exam: Passing a comprehensive exam covering learning theory, animal husbandry, behavior modification, and professional ethics.
Continuing Education: Trainers must earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every 3 years to maintain certification.
Why It Matters:
A CPDT-KA ensures that your trainer has demonstrated a solid knowledge base and practical experience in positive, force-free training methods.
3. Other Reputable Certifications to Look For
KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner)
Offered by the Karen Pryor Academy, this certification focuses on clicker training and positive reinforcement techniques.
Trainers complete intensive coursework, hands-on training, and assessments.
CBCC-KA (Certified Behavior Consultant Canine - Knowledge Assessed)
Also offered by the CCPDT, this certification is for professionals focusing on behavior modification.
Requires a deeper knowledge of complex behavior issues compared to the CPDT-KA.
ACDBC (Associate Certified Dog Behavior Consultant)
Offered by the IAABC, this is a step below the CDBC for professionals gaining experience with behavior cases.
4. How to Choose the Right Professional
When hiring a dog trainer or behavior consultant, consider the following:
1. Check Credentials
Look for certifications from reputable organizations like IAABC, CCPDT, or the Karen Pryor Academy. These indicate a commitment to ethical, science-based training.
2. Assess Their Experience
Ask about their experience with cases similar to yours. For example:
If your dog struggles with basic manners, a CPDT-KA might be a great fit.
For aggression or anxiety, look for a CDBC or CBCC-KA.
3. Understand Their Methods
Ensure they use force-free, positive reinforcement methods. Avoid professionals who use punishment-based techniques like shock collars, as these can harm your dog’s trust and well-being.
4. Ask for References
Reputable trainers and consultants should be willing to provide client references or reviews.
5. Verify Membership in Professional Organizations
Membership in groups like the IAABC or CCPDT indicates a commitment to ongoing education and ethical practices.
5. Why Certifications Matter
Hiring a certified professional ensures that your dog’s trainer or behavior consultant has met rigorous standards of education, experience, and ethics. This is especially important in an unregulated industry where anyone can call themselves a “trainer.”
Final Thoughts
Pet parents, your dog deserves the best care and guidance, and choosing a qualified professional is a big part of that. Whether you’re working on basic manners or addressing complex behavior challenges, look for certifications like CDBC, CPDT-KA, or others from reputable organizations to ensure you’re working with someone knowledgeable and trustworthy.
Have questions about training certifications or how to find the right professional for your dog? Let me know—I’m here to help!
Carlos F. Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Carlos is head trainer at Canine High School in Long Beach CA, a force-free Puppy School and Dog School. He is responsible for creating the School's Dog Training System, Curriculum and Philosophy. In addition to educating his canine students and their human parents, he runs a teaching school that offers apprenticeship and internship programs for aspiring professional dog trainers. He is a Certified Mentor Trainer for several dog training schools and holds certifications with the IAABC and the CCPDT. He lives in Long Beach CA in a little house by the beach with his human, his three dogs GoGo, Kiba, Choji and a sassy cat, Habibti.
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