Credentials
IAABC is an independent credentialing organization for behavior consultants, trainers, and shelter professionals working with dogs, cats, horses, and parrots. Credentials are earned by exam, and you prepare independently through your own education and experience.
We offer two types of credentials: Certifications for behavior consultants and Accreditations for trainers and shelter professionals.
For behavior consultants working with complex cases such as fear, anxiety, and aggression.
Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC)
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)
Certified Equine Behavior Consultant (CEBC)
Certified Parrot Behavior Consultant (CPBC)
Certified Shelter Behavior – Cat (CSB-C)
Certified Shelter Behavior – Dog (CSB-D)
Recommended experience: 3+ years
Recommended education: 400+ hours
Application fee: $225 USD
For trainers and shelter professionals teaching manners, life skills, enrichment, and problem prevention.
Accredited Dog Trainer (ADT)
Accredited Equine Trainer (AET)
Accredited Shelter Trainer – Cat (AST-C)
Accredited Shelter Trainer – Dog (AST-D)
Shelter Behavior Affiliate (SBA)
Recommended experience: 2+ years
Recommended education: 100+ hours
Application fee: $225 USD
SBA: 200+ hours of shelter experience recommended, $125 USD
Behavior Checklist (BCL)
A video-based exam that tests your ability to observe and assess dog behavior using a standardized scoring system. Unlike our other exams, the BCL is open to both members and non-members. Learn more about the BCL
How to Apply
First, become an IAABC Supporting Member. Then apply for an exam through your member account. We recommend reading the Application Handbook first. It covers the process, endorsements, exam expectations, and deadlines.
IAABC Members: Apply for an ExamView the Application HandbookFrequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a certification and an accreditation?
Certifications are for behavior consultants who work with complex cases like fear, anxiety, and aggression. Accreditations are for trainers and shelter professionals who teach manners, life skills, and enrichment, and who help prevent behavior problems.
Should I choose a species or a shelter credential?
Choose based on where you do most of your work. Choose a species credential (such as CDBC, CCBC, or ADT) if you mainly work with pets and their families. Choose a shelter credential (CSB-C, CSB-D, AST-C, or AST-D) if you mainly work with animals in a shelter or rescue. The exams are separate because the work is different.
Do I need to prove my experience or education hours?
No. The recommended experience and education are there to help you prepare. You don't need to verify them to apply. Education hours should relate to the IAABC Core Competencies.
Is there a course I have to take?
No. IAABC credentials are earned by exam. You prepare independently through your own education, training, and experience.
Do I need to be a member to apply?
Yes. You must be an IAABC Supporting Member to apply for a certification or accreditation. The Behavior Checklist (BCL) is the only exam open to non-members.
What happens to my membership when I earn a credential?
Supporting Members who earn a credential automatically move to Credentialed Membership.
What is the CABC?
The Certified Animal Behavior Consultant (CABC) designation is awarded automatically when you earn three or more certifications across dogs, cats, horses, and parrots. There's no separate exam.
We'd Love to Help You Choose
Whether you're just exploring or ready to apply, our team is happy to talk it through with you.
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