Animals & Wildlife

Certified Professional Dog Trainer — Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)

Issued by Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers · US

Demonstrate canine learning, training and instruction knowledge in the CCPDT’s independent certification exam.

Professional certificationProfessional certification

A little more about it

Demonstrate canine learning, training and instruction knowledge in the CCPDT’s independent certification exam. Certification is assessed independently of a particular training course. Holders must renew every three years through the issuer’s continuing-education or examination route.

What this credential means

An industry credential issued by this organization. It is not a government license or an academic degree.

Verification means we found evidence of the offering. It does not mean we endorse it or guarantee recognition.

What you receive

Certified Professional Dog Trainer — Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)

  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer — Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)

Format: not confirmed. Certificate inclusion has not been confirmed.

What it takes

  • Be at least 18 with a high-school qualification or equivalent
  • Document 300 dog-training hours in the previous three years
  • Provide the required professional attestation

Exam: required. Practical assessment: not required.

Where you can get it

Knowledge exams may use test centres or remote proctoring. The skills assessment uses recordings made at the candidate’s location. Check current application windows.

Worldwide eligibility has not been confirmed. Source-confirmed languages: English.

Validity & renewal

Renewal required every three years.

Renewal is required.

Sources & verification

Official issuer page reviewed on 2026-10-25. Existence and award were checked; unknown details are retained as unknown.

Reviewed 25 October 2026. Prices, availability and requirements can change. The provider’s current terms take precedence.

Editorial scores, not user ratings: unusualness 2/5 · practical usefulness 4/5. How we score.