Accredited Credentials

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The IAABC Accredited credential indicates a trainer with a sound foundation in the principles and practices of animal training as well as the ability to apply this skill set to a wide range of behavior issues. Accredited credentials are open to any animal trainer and behavior consultant who has experience leading to them working independently with clients.

Accredited members qualify to be listed in the IAABC consultant locator and have the right to use the IAABC Accredited logo. They are also granted an official certificate detailing their competencies.

Current Credentials

We offer the following specialty-specific credentials at the Accredited level:

Accredited

Accredited Dog Trainer (IAABC-ADT)

Eligibility Requirements

We suggest:

A minimum of 2 years experience dog training
A working knowledge of learning science, training, and husbandry, and seminar, mentorship, and other additional education

Fees

Application Fee: $225

Application fees are not refundable if the application is abandoned or expires.

Continuing Education Requirements:

36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every 3 years

Application requires:

Written endorsements from two clients and a colleague

Completion of questions regarding terminology, techniques, assessment, and history taking

Written discussion of two scenarios (see the FAQs)

Completion of two training questions

Your answers should reflect your knowledge and ability as a dog trainer and demonstrate your skills in working with clients and their dogs.

Scoring:

Applicants must receive a score of 80% or higher on each section of the application to pass. Applicants who score below these requirements on any section of the application remain valuable Supporting members. Supporting members are welcome to retake the exam after receiving their notice. There is no waiting period for exam retakes.

How to Earn an IAABC Credential

You can view the navigation items to understand more about the requirements of each of our credentials. Or, click below for a walk-through of the credentialing process, resources for preparation, and requirements for credential maintenance.

CREDENTIALING PROCESS

Member Testimonials

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Here I get support, information and training on current, evidence-based knowledge. A great community of international consultants offers great exchange on each relevant topic to support each other helping animals, their owners or even organizations that take care of animals of different species.

By Sylvia Czarnecki, Certified Horse Behavior Consultant
I am proud and honored to be certified by, a member of, and educator for the IAABC. I consider the organization to be the industry standard for well-rounded, quality, ethical animal behavior information that is disseminated in a supportive, effective, collaborative environment. The IAABC works very hard to produce not only quantity of educational resources, but also quality.

By Katenna Jones, Certified Dog & Cat Behavior Consultant
As a member, I get to network with experts in my field all over the world. This allows me to expand my knowledge in cat behavior as well as shelter behavior. As the feline behavior manager in an open intake shelter, this opportunity to learn from the best has allowed me to ensure the mental health and behavior needs are met for the cats in our care. The IAABC is the "go to" place for people all over the world to find experts in animal behavior. As a certified member my profile is available for the public to view. Since I earned my certification, I've seen my private business almost triple.

By Lisa Stemcosky, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant
IAABC has been an invaluable learning tool for both myself and staff. As a shelter professional, the webinars provide relevant and up to date information to be used in multiple formats. The online convenience allows for continuing education, minus the travel.The mentorship programs are nothing short of amazing, including the pricing . This organization is always looking forward and growing.

By Amy Schindler, Shelter Behavior Affiliate