Behavior Checklist

The Behavior Checklist (BCL) is a behavior scoring system used internationally by organizations breeding and / or training service and guides.

Developed by Dr. James Serpell from the University of Pennsylvania, USA, in collaboration with multiple guide dog organizations, the BCL provides a common language and coding to describe aspects of behavior in a variety of observations from puppy test through training.

BCL data are used to identify dogs needing extra support, matching pups to handlers, behavioral trends over time and genetic selection using estimated breeding values.

The Behavior Checklist is a standardized test which uses specific definitions and criteria for scoring behavior. Please be sure to review this scoring criteria before you take the test.

The following resources are available on the IWDR website to help you prepare for your exam. You can access study and practice resources by creating a free account here. Please note you must create an account to access the resources below.

· 3-part BCL webinar series

· BCL scoring form

· GDBart Overview

· Behavior Definitions

· Additional scoring and testing information

· Library of BCL behavior items and video examples

If you are unsuccessful in your first attempt, you may retake the examination once, free of charge. If you are retaking the examination, please contact us at info@iaabc.org for a coupon code to use during re-registration.

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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.

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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.

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