Dog Training Certifications.

Common Certifications held by dog Trainers

We place a strong emphasis on professional, science-based training—and that starts with our team. Because the dog training industry is unregulated, anyone can call themselves a “dog trainer,” regardless of experience or education. That’s why we prioritize earning and maintaining industry-recognized certifications for all our trainers.

These certifications ensure that:

  • Our training methods follow current industry standards

  • Our team uses scientifically sound, force-free techniques

  • We stay up to date through required continuing education

One of our core values is: Learning Never Stops. Every member of our team is committed to lifelong learning to better serve you and your dog.

In an unregulated field, titles like “Dog Trainer” or “Behavior Specialist” can mean different things depending on where you go. At Pup Culture™, we use the following definitions:

  • Dog Trainer: A certified professional focused on teaching dogs the skills and behaviors their humans want—everything from manners to adventure readiness. All of our dog trainers hold, or are actively working towards, at least one industry-recognized credential.

  • Canine Behaviorist: A certified dog trainer who has pursued additional education and specialization in behavior modification, and holds additional certification in order to support clients with more complex challenges like aggression, intense fear, and/or anxiety. Our team members may refer you to a behaviorist for the most advanced behavior cases.

  • The PCT (Professional Canine Trainer) certification is awarded by the Pet Professional Guild (PPG)—a respected international organization that promotes force-free, positive reinforcement-based training methods.

    To earn the PCT credential, trainers must:

    • Demonstrate hands-on experience in dog training

    • Pass a rigorous assessment of their knowledge, practical skills, and ethical standards

    • Commit to using only humane, science-backed training methods—no fear, pain, or intimidation

    • Stay current through ongoing education and adherence to PPG’s strict code of conduct

    By choosing a PCT-certified trainer, you can be confident your dog is learning in a safe, positive, and supportive environment that prioritizes both behavioral success and emotional well-being.

  • The PCBC-A credential is the behavior specialist certification offered by the Pet Professional Guild (PPG)—an international organization dedicated to force-free, science-based animal training and behavior support.

    This advanced certification is designed for professionals who specialize in canine behavior consulting, particularly in addressing complex behavior challenges such as fear, anxiety, aggression, reactivity, and compulsive behaviors.

    To become certified, candidates must:

    • Demonstrate extensive hands-on experience in canine behavior consulting

    • Provide case studies and references from clients and veterinary professionals

    • Pass a comprehensive exam covering applied behavior analysis, ethology, learning theory, and behavior modification techniques

    • Adhere to the PPG’s strict code of ethics, which prohibits the use of aversive tools or methods

    • Commit to ongoing professional education to stay current in the field

    Working with a PCBC-A certified behavior consultant ensures your dog receives compassionate, evidence-based support for behavioral concerns—focused on both emotional wellness and long-term success.

  • The Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI) is a professional certification offered through Do More With Your Dog!®, the leading organization for trick dog training and titling.

    Trick dog training is more than just fun—it builds confidence, strengthens your bond, and improves communication between you and your dog. A CTDI-certified instructor has the skills and experience to guide dogs and their handlers through progressive trick training in a positive, force-free way.

    To earn this title, instructors must:

    • Demonstrate proficiency in teaching and performing tricks using positive reinforcement

    • Submit a portfolio of work, including trick demonstrations and teaching videos

    • Pass an exam on training methodology, safety, and motivational techniques

    • Abide by a code of conduct that promotes humane, encouraging training practices

    Whether you’re looking to earn trick titles, boost your dog’s focus, or just have more fun together, working with a CTDI ensures your trainer has the expertise to make learning engaging and rewarding for both you and your dog.

  • A Licensed Family Paws Parent Educator is a dog training professional specially trained to support families with dogs and young children, including expectant parents, new parents, and families with toddlers. This license is awarded through Family Paws®, the leading organization focused on helping families create safe, positive relationships between children and dogs.

    Licensed educators receive specialized training in:

    • Dog body language and behavior around babies and toddlers

    • Child development as it relates to dog interactions

    • Preparing dogs for the arrival of a baby (before, during, and after pregnancy)

    • Managing interactions and promoting safety as children grow

    • Supporting families through transitions with compassionate, force-free guidance

    Whether you're expecting a baby, adjusting to life with a new child, or navigating toddlerhood with your dog, a Family Paws Educator can help you build a safe, confident, and respectful relationship between your dog and your growing family.

    *Our team members have completed the FPPE course requirements but do not currently hold a license.

  • An UpDog Judge is an official representative trained and approved by UpDog Challenge, a popular canine disc (frisbee) sport organization. UpDog combines traditional disc dog skills with creative games designed to be fun, accessible, and rewarding for dogs and handlers of all levels.

    UpDog Judges are responsible for:

    • Overseeing competitions and events to ensure games are run safely, fairly, and according to UpDog rules

    • Scoring performances based on accuracy, skill, and teamwork between dog and handler

    • Promoting sportsmanship and fun, encouraging a welcoming, supportive environment for all participants

    • Staying up-to-date on rule changes and game standards through official UpDog training and continuing education

    Having an UpDog Judge on your team or at your event means your games will be guided by someone with a deep understanding of the sport—and a commitment to fun, fair play, and positive experiences for both dogs and humans.

  • The Alberta Force Free Alliance (AFFA) is a coalition of professional dog trainers, behavior consultants, and pet care providers across Alberta who are committed to humane, science-based, and force-free methods of animal training and care.

    AFFA members agree to uphold the alliance’s guiding principles, which include:

    • Using positive reinforcement and evidence-based techniques

    • Rejecting tools and methods that cause fear, pain, or intimidation

    • Promoting the emotional and physical well-being of all animals

    • Advocating for education, transparency, and professionalism in the training industry

    Being a member of the Alberta Force Free Alliance means a trainer is dedicated to ethical, compassionate training that prioritizes the welfare of both dogs and their humans.

    Learn more about AFFA’s mission and code of ethics at albertaforcefreealliance.com

  • The CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed) is a respected, industry-recognized certification offered by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)—one of the leading credentialing organizations in the dog training industry.

    To earn the CPDT-KA title, trainers must:

    • Demonstrate at least 300 hours of hands-on dog training experience

    • Pass a comprehensive exam covering learning theory, behavior, training techniques, and canine care

    • Agree to follow a strict code of ethics and use science-based, humane training methods

    • Complete continuing education every three years to maintain certification

    Choosing a CPDT-KA certified trainer gives you peace of mind that your dog is being trained by someone with verified experience, up-to-date knowledge, and a commitment to ethical, effective practices.

    *In 2025, the CPDT updated their policies with clear guidelines on using aversive training equipment. Due to this, the Pup Culture™ team is no longer renewing their CPDT credentials and are actively working toward Pet Professional Guild certifications as outlined below.