Credentials
Choosing to become credentialed with the IAABC is a meaningful step in your professional journey. It demonstrates your commitment to high standards in animal behavior and training and affirms the depth of your knowledge and experience. IAABC credentials are recognized internationally and reflect the professionalism our field continues to uphold.
How to Begin
IAABC credentialing examinations are available exclusively to IAABC Members in good standing. If you’re new to the IAABC, your first step is to join. Membership gives you access to valuable resources, professional development webinars, and a supportive community of peers to help prepare you for success. Once your membership is active, you can access credential applications directly from your member dashboard.
Credential Options
IAABC offers four professional credentials: Accredited (for dog trainers with solid foundational skills), Shelter Behavior Affiliate (for shelter‑based professionals), Certified Behavior Consultant (for advanced animal behavior consultants), and BCL certification (for professionals trained to assess and record canine behavior using the standardized Behavior Checklist system). Each credential supports a distinct professional pathway in behavior and training work.
To get started, we recommend reading the IAABC Application Handbook, which outlines eligibility, timelines, and exactly what to expect throughout the application process.
All IAABC credentials include recognition in the public Consultant Locator, the right to use the IAABC logos, and an official certificate detailing your competencies.
Explore Credentials
Application fees are not refundable if the application is abandoned or expires.
Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain your IAABC credential, all credentialed professionals must complete a minimum of 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every 3 years. CEUs support professional growth and ongoing learning through participation in webinars, courses, mentorship, publications, and teaching. A wide variety of activities can count toward CEUs, and many low‑cost and no‑cost opportunities are available throughout the year.
For a complete breakdown of CEU types and documentation guidelines, please visit the IAABC CEU Policy. You can also view our library of IAABC‑approved CEU listings.
Why Credentialing Matters
Earning an IAABC credential demonstrates to clients, employers, and colleagues that your work meets respected standards of practice. It affirms that your knowledge and decision‑making have been thoughtfully evaluated by experienced behavior consultants using a rigorous and structured process. Our credentials are often a valuable step in increasing referrals, expanding professional roles, and growing confidence in your own practice. The process itself frequently brings clarity and focus to practitioners who are already doing meaningful work and want to be recognized for it.
Understanding the Process
The IAABC is a third‑party credentialing body. This means we do not provide the training that leads to your credential; instead, we evaluate your existing experience, knowledge, and professional judgment. The examination process is comprehensive and writing‑intensive, and includes case studies, scenario responses, and documentation of your applied work.
Before applying, we ask all applicants to review the IAABC Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Once your examination is opened, you will have 60 days to receive endorsements and 60 days to submit your materials. We encourage thoughtful preparation and review. Examiners are looking for clear explanations of your decisions, reasoning, and understanding of behavior science. Responses should be detailed enough to give reviewers insight into your approach and intent.
Support and Accommodations
If you have questions about which credential best fits your background, we invite you to attend one of our upcoming community Q&A events or email us at info@iaabc.org. We are always happy to help.