Association for Professional Dog Training International

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Association for Professional Dog Training International This is the official page of The Association for Professional Dog Training International, www.apdt.com

With over 3700 members and partners in almost 40 countries, the Association for Professional Dog Training International is the largest dog training community world-wide. Rebranding in September of 2024, APDT International welcomes a wider base of participants in the larger training ecosphere and seeks to grow our already international network, into one that touches training everywhere around the w

orld. Through these expanded connections to other professionals and trainers around the globe, the Association for Professional Dog Training International will accelerate the learning and growth of our members as well as create space to better inform everyone who is passionate about dogs receiving the best training and care possible. In 2010, APDT declared January to be “National Train Your Dog Month.” This annual campaign will highlight the importance of training to the marketplace, potential clients and allies who also understand the value of access to training for all dogs. www.trainyourdogmonth.com

The APDT is always developing and delivering online educational opportunities. Offerings include on-demand webinars and multi-week online courses touching subjects across the training field. One of our most successful programs, the Canine Life and Social Skills program (C.L.A.S.S.) promotes the benefits of training for dog owners and for shelter dogs. www.mydoghasclass.com

APDT International’s Annual Conference offers a unique experience each year, drawing expert speakers from all over the world to share their knowledge of canine behavior and training. Manufacturers of dog products and services often use our trade show to launch new products, and you never know who you may run into at an in person APDT International event! Our award-winning quarterly magazine, Chronicle of the Dog offers exclusive access to some of the industry’s prominent experts as contributing authors. Each issue is a truly beautiful piece overflowing with insight into the state of the profession.

27/02/2025

to
Learning + Connection = ❤️🐾

❤️❤️❤️ We love seeing these badges and feedback from our members like Buddy! We can’t wait to see you all again at  !   ...
26/02/2025

❤️❤️❤️ We love seeing these badges and feedback from our members like Buddy! We can’t wait to see you all again at !

The APDT Dog Training conference in Riverside last year was an amazing experience and a well of knowledge on offer to source from.
Seeing the sessions there inspired me to become an instructor myself. I look forward to continue my commitment to further educate myself in dog training and dog care to offer the best possible work for my clients, team and all the Buddy Dogs.

Have you joined our Member’s Only Book Club? Make sure to join Tranquil K9 and other members as we discuss our next book...
26/02/2025

Have you joined our Member’s Only Book Club? Make sure to join Tranquil K9 and other members as we discuss our next book! New discussions start this week!

Why I Love Being an APDT Member
One of my favorite parts of being a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) is their book club! The discussions we have are always insightful, pushing me to think deeper about canine behavior, training techniques, and the ever-evolving world of dog science. It’s amazing to connect with fellow trainers and share perspectives on some of the best literature in our field.
Beyond that, APDT offers incredible resources for both trainers and dog owners, making it an invaluable community to be part of. If you’re passionate about learning and growing in the world of dog training, I highly recommend checking them out!
Are you part of any great book clubs or training communities? Let’s chat about your favorites!

SAVE THE DATE: APDT 2025 Registration Opens March 10!Get ready for our most exciting conference yet, featuring in-person...
25/02/2025

SAVE THE DATE: APDT 2025 Registration Opens March 10!

Get ready for our most exciting conference yet, featuring in-person and livestream options—back by popular demand! Join us in person for full access to learning labs, the exhibit hall, events, receptions, and more, or tune in online to catch the daily general session track from anywhere.

Plus, don’t miss the chance to pre-purchase the complete conference recordings for just $99. Make sure to register early to save and secure your spot!

Learn more at apdtconference.com.

Ready to level up your dog training skills? Dive into The Cognitive Canine: Incorporating Training into Your Classes, an...
24/02/2025

Ready to level up your dog training skills? Dive into The Cognitive Canine: Incorporating Training into Your Classes, an APDT International webinar led by renowned trainer and author Pat Miller! Explore fascinating concepts like choice, imitation, object and color discrimination—even reading and writing—and discover fresh ways to integrate these into your own classes.

Earn 2 CEUs (CCPDT, IAABC, KPA, IACP, ABCDT-L2) while expanding your understanding of canine cognition. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s most respected professionals.

Access the webinar now at https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/11299 and enrich your approach to dog training!

Do you have your Member Badge? Tell the world that you are part of APDT International where we are shaping the future of...
21/02/2025

Do you have your Member Badge? Tell the world that you are part of APDT International where we are shaping the future of dog training—one that’s compassionate, effective, and rooted in science and respect for both dogs and their people. Visit verify.apdt.com to learn more!

🐾 Never walk alone on your dog training journey! 🐾 Join APDT International and become part of a global community dedicat...
21/02/2025

🐾 Never walk alone on your dog training journey! 🐾

Join APDT International and become part of a global community dedicated to the unique relationship between humans and their canine companions. Membership with APDT International isn’t just about resources and recognition; it’s an investment in learning, growth, and connection.

With members worldwide, you’ll have countless opportunities to network, learn, and share experiences with professionals who care about advancing the dog training industry.

Never walk alone. Join today and invest in a future where you and your business can thrive. 👉 Visit https://apdt.com/engagement-benefits/ to learn more and become part of APDT International!

20/02/2025

to Day 1 of the Conference in Riverside, CA! It was filled with amazing speakers, exciting events, live demos and more!

is coming soon! Registration opens March 10. Check out this year's speaker lineup at apdtconference.com. Hope to see you in Richmond, VA this November!

Ready to show your passion for professional dog 🐶 training? The APDT International SWAG collection features stylish appa...
19/02/2025

Ready to show your passion for professional dog 🐶 training? The APDT International SWAG collection features stylish apparel, accessories and more to help you represent the global dog training community. Head over to shopapdt.com and treat yourself (and fellow dog enthusiasts) to gear that shows off your commitment to humane dog training. Let’s celebrate our international community - together, we make dog training better around the world.

Check out the collection here: shopapdt.com

Ready to elevate your training game by teaming up with a veterinary behaviorist? In this APDT Webinar led by Irith Bloom...
18/02/2025

Ready to elevate your training game by teaming up with a veterinary behaviorist? In this APDT Webinar led by Irith Bloom (CPDT-KSA, CDBC, VSPDT, KPA CTP, CBATI), you’ll learn:

• When a veterinary behaviorist is needed and how to spot the signs
• How to get clients on board for a more comprehensive care plan
• Strategies for building a reciprocal referral relationship that benefits everyone

We’ll explore real-life case studies and proven approaches to improve outcomes for both you and your clients. This webinar is geared toward intermediate and advanced trainers, though beginners will pick up valuable insights too.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expand your expertise and learn from one of the industry’s top professionals.

Learn more: https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/12637

Starting February 24, the APDT Member Book Club will explore "How to Train Your Dog with Love + Science" by Annie Grossm...
17/02/2025

Starting February 24, the APDT Member Book Club will explore "How to Train Your Dog with Love + Science" by Annie Grossman. This insightful read offers a fresh, science-backed perspective on dog training, showing how we can shape behavior with kindness rather than coercion.

Annie Grossman, a journalist-turned-dog trainer, unpacks the power of positive reinforcement and explains why “good dog training” can also teach us valuable lessons about ourselves.

Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and grow alongside fellow APDT members! The Book Club is a FREE benefit for APDT Members. Learn more here: https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/81573

Not a member yet? Join today at https://apdt.com/engagement-benefits/ to gain access to the book club and other exclusive benefits. Let's turn the page together!

📢 SOLD OUT! 📢 Our Regional Workshop in New York City on April 5 is officially full! 🎉Thank you to everyone who registere...
17/02/2025

📢 SOLD OUT! 📢 Our Regional Workshop in New York City on April 5 is officially full! 🎉

Thank you to everyone who registered—we can't wait to see you there! If you missed out, don’t worry—more workshops are coming soon to a town near you. Stay tuned for upcoming dates and locations! 👀🐾

Where would you like to see us next? Drop your city in the comments! ⬇️

🐶📸 Show us your training in action! 📸🐶Did you know APDT International is on Instagram? 🎉 Now’s your chance to join the c...
13/02/2025

🐶📸 Show us your training in action! 📸🐶

Did you know APDT International is on Instagram? 🎉 Now’s your chance to join the conversation!

👀 Follow us 👉 instagram.com/apdt_international
📸 Tag us in your training moments using
💬 Share your successes, training wins, and adorable pups—we just might feature YOU!

Let’s build a community of passionate, positive trainers together. Give us a follow and start tagging! 🐾💙

🐾 Have You Signed Up Yet? 🐾Our sold-out 2024 Puppy Kindergarten course is back—don’t miss your chance to take your puppy...
12/02/2025

🐾 Have You Signed Up Yet? 🐾

Our sold-out 2024 Puppy Kindergarten course is back—don’t miss your chance to take your puppy classes to the next level! This course isn’t just about teaching basic manners; it’s about preparing puppies and their people for real-world success through off-leash skills, play-based learning, and strong human-dog communication.

Led by Amanda Gagnon, MSc, CDBC, CPDT-KA, this course will help you:
✅ Build reliable off-leash skills—even in chaotic settings
✅ Use playtime to develop bomb-proof communication between dogs and humans
✅ Navigate real-world class challenges with expert strategies
✅ Create engaging, effective curriculums that set puppies (and their people) up for success

With real class footage, expert insights, and unlimited access, this is the ultimate resource to level up your Puppy Kindergarten program. Whether you're launching a new class or refining an existing one, this course will help you create safe, engaging, and impactful group training experiences.

📅 Spots are filling up—secure yours today at https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/88409! 🐶🎓

🐾 Shelter Workers, Rescue Volunteers, and Dog Lovers – This is for You! 🐾If you’re passionate about understanding and he...
11/02/2025

🐾 Shelter Workers, Rescue Volunteers, and Dog Lovers – This is for You! 🐾

If you’re passionate about understanding and helping the dogs you work with, APDT International’s Learning Partner category is here to support you every step of the way. 🌟 For just $50/year, gain access to resources and insights that empower you to make an even bigger impact!

As a Learning Partner, you’ll enjoy:

📚 Educational tools covering foundational topics like Dog Training 101, identifying canine body language, and knowing when to partner with a trainer or behavior specialist.

📰 A digital subscription to Chronicle of the Dog, our award-winning quarterly magazine, packed with the latest trends and research in dog training and behavior.

💡 Opportunities to learn and stay engaged with a community that shares your commitment to dogs’ well-being.

Whether you want to expand your skills or simply make a bigger difference in the lives of dogs, APDT International is your partner in knowledge, support, and community. Never walk alone on your journey.

👉 Join today at apdt.com and become part of a movement dedicated to positive, impactful change in dog care and training.

Discover how to “speak dog” in this APDT International webinar, "Understanding Dogs Through Body Language and Behavior" ...
10/02/2025

Discover how to “speak dog” in this APDT International webinar, "Understanding Dogs Through Body Language and Behavior" with expert trainer Shannon Coyner, B.A., RVT, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP. Learn to spot subtle cues in your dog’s posture and expressions so you can better support their emotional needs. Plus, earn 1 CEU (CCPDT, IAABC, KPA, IACP, ABCDT-L2)! Don’t miss this chance to deepen your bond with your canine companion. Learn more here https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/10007

Only four spots left! Don’t miss this chance to expand your skills and connect with fellow professionals at our regional...
07/02/2025

Only four spots left! Don’t miss this chance to expand your skills and connect with fellow professionals at our regional workshop. Claim your seat now before they’re gone! Sig up https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/in_person_events/18355

Discover fresh approaches to help city dogs thrive in the concrete jungle. In this immersive workshop, you’ll gain insight into a dog’s urban perspective—revealing how constant, unexpected stimuli can shape reactivity and stress. We’ll explore strategies to build resilience, promote safer dog-handler interactions, and structure training plans that foster calm under pressure. Plus, enjoy live training demos in Central Park (weather permitting) to see these concepts in action. Equip yourself with the tools needed to confidently navigate city living and cultivate a lasting sense of safety and security for both ends of the leash!

Looking for a Qualified Dog Trainer? Look for the Badge! 🐶🎓Dog training is an unregulated industry, which means anyone c...
06/02/2025

Looking for a Qualified Dog Trainer? Look for the Badge! 🐶🎓

Dog training is an unregulated industry, which means anyone can call themselves a trainer—but how do you know if they have credible education and professional expertise?

✅ APDT International’s new Digital Badging System helps you identify trainers committed to science-based, ethical training practices and ongoing professional development.

🐾 Why Does It Matter? Training rooted in proven, ethical methods leads to better results, stronger relationships, and happier dogs!

Working with a trainer? Ask if they hold an APDT International badge! It’s a simple way to ensure you’re choosing a professional dedicated to positive, effective training for your dog.

Learn more about badging at verify.apdt.com.

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Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
Friday 08:00 - 17:00

Website

https://trainyourdogmonth.com/, https://www.apdtconference.com/

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Our Story

We were founded in 1993 by Ian Dunbar, Ph.D., BVetMed, MRCVS, as a forum for trainers to associate with one another and to discuss topics of mutual interest. We have since become a member-driven organization producing educational conferences in locations throughout the United States. Our annual conference has grown from 250 participants a few years ago to 1500 participants. Our membership has grown at a similar rate to more than 5,000 members worldwide. Our organization is a voice for pet dog trainers. We offer a unique opportunity for professional networking and sharing of ideas through our conferences, membership directory, newsletter and seminars. We refer, but do not endorse, members listed in our membership directory to clients who call or visit our webpage on a daily basis looking for a trainer in their area. Our members include world renowned speakers and authors, veterinarians, dog trainers, animal behaviorists, dog club members, humane society personnel and service dog trainers. The APDT offers individual pet dog trainers a respected and concerted voice in the dog world. We continue to promote professional trainers to the veterinary profession and to increase public awareness of dog friendly training techniques. The APDT and its activities are governed by a volunteer Board of Director, which is made up of eight elected members from around the world. Its membership dues, educational conferences and sponsorships from industry-related businesses finance the organization.