Help Me Pay for my
CErtification EXAMS
As many of you know, I’ve dedicated my life to studying, researching, and working hands-on with dogs to help people build stronger, healthier relationships with them. I’m constantly learning and diving into canine behavior, psychology, and the latest science-based training methods, because I believe the best teachers, trainers and coaches never stop being students themselves.
In this unregulated world
of self-proclaimed
trainers and experts,
I believe certification matters, both for protecting the public and upholding
high professional standards.
I’m working toward two
of the highest-regarded science-based credentials in my profession
FROM THE
Certification Council
for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
CBCC-KA
(Certified Behavior Consultant Canine – Knowledge Assessed)
This is CCPDT’s behavior-focused certification. It is designed for trainers and consultants who work with complex behavior issues such as aggression, fear, separation anxiety, and other behavioral disorders.
Eligibility:
Experience: minimum 500 hours of canine behavior consulting within the past 3 years (documented, hands-on casework).
Education credits: at least 36 hours of education in canine behavior within the past 3 years before applying. The CCPDT must approve the provider or event for CEUs to count
References/attestation: from a veterinary or credentialed behavior professional.
Exam: pass a comprehensive, proctored knowledge exam.
CPDT-KA
(Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed)
One of the most recognized credentials in our field. It represents a commitment to humane, evidence-based training.
Eligibility:
Experience: minimum 300 hours of dog training within the past 3 years (group classes, privates, shelter/rescue work, day training).
Education credits: at least 21 hours of education in dog training/behavior within the past 3 years before applying. The CCPDT must approve the provider or event for CEUs to count
References/attestation: from a veterinarian or credentialed training/behavior professional.
Exam: pass a rigorous, independently proctored knowledge exam.
CCPDT Certification
Cost Breakdown
Estimated Total 💰 For Both Exams + CEU Costs:
$1,500 – $2,500*
*Depending on early vs. standard registration (which depends on when I have enough funds and what time of year it is):
Exam Windows & Registration Deadlines
Spring: April (registration opens in January, closes late February)
Fall: October (registration opens in July, closes late August)
1. CPDT-KA – Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed
Early registration: $400
Standard registration: $450
Education credits required before applying: 21 hours within the past 3 years
Estimated CEU courses/workshops cost: $300–$800 (depending on providers and topics)
Total estimated cost (exam + CEUs):
Early registration: $700–$1,200
Standard registration: $750–$1,250
2. CBCC-KA – Certified Behavior Consultant Canine – Knowledge Assessed
Early registration: $450
Standard registration: $500
Education credits required before applying: 36 hours within the past 3 years
Estimated CEU courses/workshops cost: $300–$800 (depending on providers and topics)
Total estimated cost (exam + CEUs):
Early registration: $750–$1,250
Standard registration: $800–$1,300
Help
Auntie Olimpia
Why give?
-
Bragging rights
You get to say “my trainer is cooler than yours” to your annoying [insert whoever’s annoying you here]
-
Karma Points
Since I’m not a charity, you can’t even write your donation off on your taxes…so it must mean you’re an extra-extra-nice person and you’ll definitely get bonus karma points!
-
Mutual Benefit
Your support allows me to keep geeking out about dogs, and the more I learn, the more tools I have to help your dog. So yeah… let’s just call this an investment in both of us and go with it