How to Become a Certified Dog Trainer

In order to become a Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT) you must get approved by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. You must fulfill SIX different requirements in order to get certification, you will see these requirements listed below.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. YOU MUST HAVE VERIFIABLE PROOF OF: At least 300 hours experience in dog training within the last five years. Two hundred twenty-five (225) hours or 75% of experience must be actual teaching hours (group class, private lessons) as a ‘Head Trainer’ or Instructor. Seventy-five (75) hours or 25% of experience can be in other related areas such as working with shelter animals, assisting in classes, working as a veterinarian technician or grooming (bather position not applicable). Occasionally, it has been necessary to verify the experience of a candidate, even after passing the examination. It is advised that a document listing your experience with names and contact information be kept in a safe place for future verification.

2. YOU MUST ALSO HAVE: A high school diploma or equivalent AND One reference from each of the following:
   
   * Veterinarian
   * Client
   * Colleague

3. Complete and file an Application for the Certification Examination for Pet Dog Trainers. Take the exam! They are only available twice a year.

4. Sign and file the CCPDT Code of Ethics. Pay the required fee of $385.
   
   
   
   For more info check out: http://www.ccpdt.org/
   
   For exam info check out: http://www.ptcny.com/clients/CCPDT/index.html#Dates1

Tips & Warnings

• If you're interested in other types of Animal-related certifications, check out http://www.apdt.com/po/certification.aspx

Resources

• Certification Council For Pet Dog Trainers

[63miranda]

on 3/19/2009 Certification is always nice to have. 5*

[2enjoylife]

on 1/12/2009 Thanks for the clear steps on how to become a certified dog trainer!*****