Just like most professional credentials, not all are common knowledge. CPDT-KA behind a trainer’s name stands for a nationally recognized certification of proficiency, and knowledge of science based training methods.

The trainers that have this certification have met a standard of knowledge that has been assessed by an independent council. They also need to have a minimum of 300 hours of dog training and related volunteer or professional experience within the last three years. They must follow a specific code of ethics which favors using a humane hierarchy of methodology; choosing positive and motivational methods, rather than force based training or compulsion methods. To read more about the specific requirements please visit CCPDT.org.