Association of Professional Dog Trainers

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Association of Professional Dog Trainers This is the official page of The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (U.S.), www.apdt.com We were founded in 1993 by Ian Dunbar DVM, Ph.D.

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 over 6,000 members worldwide. Our organ

ization 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, 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 Trustees which is made up of five elected members from around the world. Its membership dues, educational conferences and sponsorships from industry-related businesses finance the organization.

Who's ready for Dr. Murphy's opening keynote presentation on September 18 at the 2024 APDT Educational Conference and Tr...
14/08/2024

Who's ready for Dr. Murphy's opening keynote presentation on September 18 at the 2024 APDT Educational Conference and Trade Show? If you are a professional dog trainer, this session is for you! Don't miss it! Get the details and register at apdtconference.com!

The APDT Conference is the premier conference for professional dog trainers. Join us in Riverside, CA, September 18-20, 2024.

Sponsor Spotlight! 🎉A huge thank you to Pets for Vets, one of our amazing sponsors for the   Conference and Trade Show! ...
13/08/2024

Sponsor Spotlight! 🎉

A huge thank you to Pets for Vets, one of our amazing sponsors for the Conference and Trade Show! We’re thrilled to partner with them to make this year’s event unforgettable.

Don’t miss the Pets for Vets REGIception on Tuesday, September 17th, from 5-7pm at the Riverside Convention Center. Kick off the conference by picking up your badge and bag, while enjoying an evening of music, fun, prizes, and delicious food!

Will we see you at the REGIception? We hope so!

Learn more about our incredible sponsors and secure your spot at the conference by visiting apdtconference.com.

13/08/2024

🚨 Big News Alert! 🚨

Get ready! Something HUGE is coming your way on Monday, August 19th. We're gearing up for an exciting announcement that you won't want to miss! Stay tuned and mark your calendars—this is going to take the 2024 APDT Conference to a whole new level. 🎉🐾

Learn more about APDT 2024 at apdtconference.com.

We can’t wait to see the Alliance of Therapy Dogs at conference! The therapy dogs are always shining stars each year. Ch...
12/08/2024

We can’t wait to see the Alliance of Therapy Dogs at conference! The therapy dogs are always shining stars each year. Check out this beautiful frenchie! The French bulldog is the mascot of . We’ll be announcing the 2025 conference mascot that was voted “Best in Show” by APDT Members at the closing of this year’s conference. Stay tuned!

🐾Meet the Breed!🐾

Today we are highlighting the French Bulldog! The French Bulldog recently became the most popular breed in The United States of America. They are especially popular with those that live in the city. They are a smaller breed that is known for their signature 'bat ears'. Frenchies, as they are so lovingly called, love making new human friends and can make great therapy dogs!

Share your adorable Frenchies with us in the comments below! 🐾♥️

We are so excited for the fabulous exhibitors attending  ! We have an amazing trade show in store for you at the 2024 AP...
12/08/2024

We are so excited for the fabulous exhibitors attending ! We have an amazing trade show in store for you at the 2024 APDT Educational Conference and Trade Show. Have you registered yet at apdtconference.com? We hope to see you in one month in sunny Riverside, CA!

A first for us at Tug-E-Nuff! 🙌 👇

We will be travelling across the pond to attend the 2024 APDT Annual Conference and Trade Show this September in Riverside, CA!

We’re super excited to be amongst some fantastic dog professionals and listen, chat and learn about all things dog! 🐾

To our US community - let us know if you’re also going! 🇺🇸👋

here we come!

Association of Professional Dog Trainers 🧡

Have you registered for APDT 2024 yet? Don't miss the chance to learn from top experts like Ken McCort! Register now at ...
10/08/2024

Have you registered for APDT 2024 yet? Don't miss the chance to learn from top experts like Ken McCort! Register now at apdtconference.com.

At APDT 2024, Ken McCort will present two must-see sessions:

🐾"Multi-Species Households"
Discover practical strategies for integrating dogs, cats, and even birds like parrots into a harmonious home. Ken will cover essential techniques for creating a peaceful environment for all your pets.

🐾"Specific Training Techniques for Helping Dogs Develop Impulse Control"
Tackle one of the most common training challenges: impulse control. Ken will explore the neurological aspects and provide actionable exercises to help dogs achieve emotional balance and self-control.

Don't miss out on these valuable insights and more. Secure your spot at apdtconference.com today!





🎉 Hey  ! 🎉Get ready to rock the conference with the coolest SWAG! 🌟 Pre-order your exclusive APDT merchandise now and pi...
09/08/2024

🎉 Hey ! 🎉

Get ready to rock the conference with the coolest SWAG! 🌟 Pre-order your exclusive APDT merchandise now and pick it up at the event to save on shipping fees! 🚚💨

🔗 Order today at shopapdt.com! Don't miss out on these limited-edition items! ✨

Are you a dog trainer seeking to elevate your group class business? APDT's C.L.A.S.S.® program is a game-changer, design...
08/08/2024

Are you a dog trainer seeking to elevate your group class business? APDT's C.L.A.S.S.® program is a game-changer, designed for both newcomers to the industry and seasoned professionals alike. For those just embarking on their journey, this program provides an excellent opportunity to swiftly establish your group class business. Meanwhile, seasoned trainers can rejuvenate their existing courses with fresh, inventive behaviors and games, all included in the comprehensive bundle purchase, saving you over $55!

With readily available curricula and four distinct levels tailored for ongoing training and skill refinement, it's time to propel your dog training business to new heights with C.L.A.S.S.!

Discover more at mydoghasclass.com.





It's  . Let's take a stroll down memory lane and celebrate a few of the amazing faces that have made APDT Conferences un...
08/08/2024

It's . Let's take a stroll down memory lane and celebrate a few of the amazing faces that have made APDT Conferences unforgettable! From our early days to the vibrant community, we are today, we're committed to providing the best education and conference experience possible for professional dog trainers. 🐾

🌟 Get Ready for ! 🌟
This year, we're pulling out all the stops in Riverside, CA, from September 18-20! Expect groundbreaking sessions, hands-on workshops, and a few surprises that you won't want to miss. 🚀

Secure your spot now at apdtconference.com! Let's make this year’s conference one for the books!

We are super excited to have Victoria Stilwell as a speaker at the 2024 APDT Annual Conference and Trade Show this Septe...
07/08/2024

We are super excited to have Victoria Stilwell as a speaker at the 2024 APDT Annual Conference and Trade Show this September in Riverside, CA! Make sure to register and secure your spot at apdtconference.com! You don't want to miss this amazing conference for professional dog trainers!

It’s been 20 years since It’s Me or the Dog was created and what better way to celebrate than with a brand new series! Season 10 airs in a few weeks on UK TV and then online for all to see. Watch this space for times and schedules x

07/08/2024

APDT is proud to have Happy Howie's as a sponsor for ! Why do trainers choose Happy Howie's? It's high value, mess free, and versatile! Learn more about these training treats at https://www.happyhowies.com/apdt/

🎉 Check out this APDT Member in the Media! 🎉Mandy Eakin's inspiring journey in the pet care industry was recently featur...
06/08/2024

🎉 Check out this APDT Member in the Media! 🎉

Mandy Eakin's inspiring journey in the pet care industry was recently featured in the July/August issue of "Pet Boarding and Daycare." Check out the article to learn more about her dedication to dog training and daycare with her business Manners Matter: https://digital.petboardinganddaycare.com/issue/july-august-2024/manners-matter-dog-training-daycare-and-reddog-farm/

We’re also thrilled to announce that Mandy will be joining the APDT Board of Directors in 2025! 🎊 She joins three other fantastic members who were recently elected. 🐶💼

Mandy began her dog training career, almost as a hobby, by training her own dogs. She then got into search and rescue work and dog sports like agility.

APDT is proud to have Business Insurers of the Carolinas as a sponsor for the 2024 APDT Annual Conference and Trade Show...
05/08/2024

APDT is proud to have Business Insurers of the Carolinas as a sponsor for the 2024 APDT Annual Conference and Trade Show! Business Insurers has been providing General Liability specifically designed for APDT members since 2001. Their coverage includes the broadest Care, Custody or Control coverage for the pets and property in your care, whether at your client's home, in transit, or at your home. This policy was designed to take the worry and the hassle out of finding reliable coverage. Best of all, buying coverage endorsed by APDT means affordable group rates.

You must be an active member of APDT to apply or renew coverage. Learn more at https://www.dogtrainerinsurance.com/

Learn more at APDT 2024 at apdtconference.com!

Business Insurers of the Carolinas, a local independent insurance agency located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Are you attending APDT 2024? With our social media badges, spread the word to your clients, family and friends that you'...
05/08/2024

Are you attending APDT 2024? With our social media badges, spread the word to your clients, family and friends that you're attending the premier dog training conference this September! Make sure to mention APDT in your post and hashtag for a chance to be featured on our social media! Haven't registered yet? Register now at apdtconference.com!




03/08/2024

🐾Hey registrants! Download the 2024 APDT Conference App now! 📲

✅Get real-time updates
✅Plan your sessions
✅Sign-up for learning labs
✅Post in the social feed
✅Connect with fellow attendees
✅Access exclusive content

App store: https://tinyurl.com/vceed9yb
Google Play: https://tinyurl.com/ycxm5phs

Not registered yet? Register now at apdtconference.com to gain access!

02/08/2024

Sara McLoudrey presents the “Top 10 Reasons” to attend her Muzzle Mastery Workshop at . Register now at apdtconference.com

In this APDT Webinar, join Dr. Kristina Spaulding, PhD, CAAB, for an in-depth look at dominance and dominance hierarchie...
02/08/2024

In this APDT Webinar, join Dr. Kristina Spaulding, PhD, CAAB, for an in-depth look at dominance and dominance hierarchies in dogs. This on-demand webinar explores:

🐾What is Dominance? Definitions from the scientific literature.
🐾Dominance Hierarchies: Their role and function in social species.
🐾Fact vs. Fiction: Research findings on dominance in wolves and domestic dogs, cutting through the rhetoric.

Dr. Spaulding brings over 20 years of expertise in dog training and behavior, with a PhD in biopsychology and a passion for applying scientific principles to animal behavior.

🎓 Earn 1.5 CEUs with CCPDT, KPA, IACP, IAABC, ABCDT-L2.

Watch anytime and elevate your understanding of canine behavior! Sign up here: https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/63528

It's almost time for  ! Join us for the Grand Opening of the exhibit hall on September 18th at 5 PM in Riverside, CA! 🎉K...
01/08/2024

It's almost time for ! Join us for the Grand Opening of the exhibit hall on September 18th at 5 PM in Riverside, CA! 🎉

Kick off your experience at the ZIWI Welcome Reception, where you can:
🎁 Indulge in delicious treats and snacks
🐾 Shop the latest and greatest from top pet companies
🤝 Network with industry leaders and fellow enthusiasts

This is the perfect way to start an unforgettable event! Don’t miss out on this exciting kickoff—see you in September! Haven't registered yet? Register now at apdtconference.com!

Learn more about our sponsor, ZIWI, at ziwipets.com!

The APDT Conference is the premier conference for professional dog trainers. Join us in Riverside, CA, September 18-20, 2024.

🌟 Election Results 🌟We're thrilled to announce the newest members of the APDT Board of Directors, joining in 2025! A big...
31/07/2024

🌟 Election Results 🌟
We're thrilled to announce the newest members of the APDT Board of Directors, joining in 2025! A big welcome to Christopher Rohland, Lisa Potts, Kim Sauer, and Mandy Eakins. 🎉

We had a competitive selection process and an impressive voter turnout, highlighting the dedication of our amazing member community. Thank you to everyone who participated and supported the process. We look forward to a bright future together! 🐾

30/07/2024

🔥 Exciting News for ! 🔥
Introducing our brand new Hands-On Learning Labs! 🎉 Learn cutting-edge techniques in Bill Dotson's tech lab and many other exclusive sessions!

✨ Why You Can't Miss This:
🐾FREE access to all learning labs—exclusive to registered attendees!
🐾A unique opportunity to engage directly with industry experts.
🐾Hands-on experience that you can’t get anywhere else!

Spaces are limited, so act fast! Don't miss out on this chance to elevate your skills and network with fellow professionals.

🔗 Register now at apdtconference.com and secure your spot! Let’s make unforgettable!

APDT welcomes Bill Dotson as a 2024 Conference speaker! Bill is a partner at Rocker, a technology risk management and co...
29/07/2024

APDT welcomes Bill Dotson as a 2024 Conference speaker! Bill is a partner at Rocker, a technology risk management and consulting company. His clients hire him to assess risk and put the right combination of IT tools, employee procedures, and cyber liability insurance in place to protect their assets. Bill speaks to thousands of people each year about the best technology to solve problems and achieve their goals. Register today at apdtconference.com!

At , Bill will present two sessions and host a hands-on tech learning lab. For "How to Get Paid: Bark and Bank," join us to unlock the potential of modern payment platforms tailored for your dog training, boarding, and breeding business. In this hands-on session, you'll learn to integrate tools like Stripe and GoCardless to handle subscriptions and one-off payments efficiently. Discover how to boost your revenue with streamlined payment solutions that your customers will love.

In his session, "Best Tech to Operate Your Business Securely", Bill will explain technology risks and how to manage them without overdoing it on paranoia and security measures. He will cover major tech risks, how to look out for them, and what to do to minimize the downside when you do experience a negative event.

Lastly, for the Hands-On Tech Learning Lab, Bill will review the top ten things to do to secure your machines (computers, mobile, or tablets) and then take questions showing people how to do things.

You don't want to miss this! Learn more at apdtconference.com!

In this three-part APDT Webinar with Pat Miller, attendees will review various forms and causes of canine aggression, ex...
26/07/2024

In this three-part APDT Webinar with Pat Miller, attendees will review various forms and causes of canine aggression, examine ways to prevent canine aggression, evaluate various modification protocols for dealing with canine aggression, analyze dog aggression case-studies from Peaceable Paws, and more!

The three parts include:
🐾Classification of Dog Aggression
🐾Understanding Dog Aggression Treatment Protocols, Safe, Effective Canine Aggression Modifications
🐾Application of Dog Aggression Treatment Protocols

Pat Miller is a CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, past president of APDT and past board member of CCPDT. She offers group good manners classes, private training and behavior modification services, dog training workshops and trainer academies at her Peaceable Paws 80-acre facility in Fairplay, Maryland.

Learn more: https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/10055
CEUs: 3.5 for all three parts (CCPDT, IAABC, KPA, IACP)

Hey  ! You can now order your merchandise from the SWAG shop and pick it up at the 2024 Conference in Riverside, CA, to ...
25/07/2024

Hey ! You can now order your merchandise from the SWAG shop and pick it up at the 2024 Conference in Riverside, CA, to save on shipping fees! Order today at shopapdt.com and select 'Pick Up My Order' at checkout! Don't miss out on these limited-edition items! ✨

Calling All APDT Members: Who Will Be 2025's "Best in Show"? After celebrating the Frenchie in 2024, it's time for YOU t...
23/07/2024

Calling All APDT Members: Who Will Be 2025's "Best in Show"? After celebrating the Frenchie in 2024, it's time for YOU to choose the breed we'll highlight at the APDT 2025 Annual Conference!

Check your inbox for the voting link we sent yesterday and cast your vote NOW! 🗳️

Why Vote? Your vote helps us focus on key training challenges, responsible breeding practices, and the importance of professional dog training.

The winner of Best in Show will be announced in Riverside, CA at APDT 2024! Together, let's make APDT 2025 unforgettable! 🐾

🐾APDT welcomes Kristen Bergsten as a 2024 conference speaker!🐾Kristina Bergsten, Esquire is the Owner and Founder of The...
22/07/2024

🐾APDT welcomes Kristen Bergsten as a 2024 conference speaker!🐾

Kristina Bergsten, Esquire is the Owner and Founder of The Animal Law Firm, a national law firm that specializes in animal-related legal matters such as pet custody, dog bite defense, veterinary malpractice, service animal representation, puppy lemon law violations, pet trusts, and more. Kristina is pioneering the field of animal law, saving lives and making pet parents whole after suffering an injury to a beloved furry family member.

Kristen will be presenting two important topics at . In the session, "General Guidance for Your Clients," you will learn how to provide general guidance to your clients to protect yourself and them, as well as things to watch out for as a business owner when dealing with difficult clients. In "Limiting Trainer Liability," Kristen will review Indemnification clauses versus liability waivers and why the difference matters. What does a good indemnification clause look like? What does a good liability waiver look like? Learn more with Kristen at this year's Annual Conference! Register today at apdtconference.com

Are you taking the CPDT-KA exam? APDT has gathered top professionals in their areas of expertise to help you prepare! Th...
19/07/2024

Are you taking the CPDT-KA exam? APDT has gathered top professionals in their areas of expertise to help you prepare! This course is broken down into the eight subject areas that are covered in the CPDT-KA exam. It is self-paced and on-demand 24/7. Learn more and sign up here: https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/18948





Jill Marie O’Brien and Amy Herot, the founders of the National Association of Canine Scent Work® and the original activi...
18/07/2024

Jill Marie O’Brien and Amy Herot, the founders of the National Association of Canine Scent Work® and the original activity and sport of K9 Nose Work®, will be doing a live demonstration at the 2024 APDT Annual Conference with dog-handler teams to share the application of K9 Nose Work® both as an enrichment activity as well as its role in the creation and rapid growth of sport detection nationally and internationally.

You will see a variety of dogs at various stages in their nose work training apply their scenting skills to the exercises set for them, but most importantly you will have an opportunity to see dogs excelling at what they do best AND having a great time using that precious gift of scent.

Register now at apdtconference.com for this great learning experience at !

🎉🐾 Attention APDT family and fur-friends! 🐾🎉The APDT Swag Shop isn't just for humans—it's for our furry companions too! ...
17/07/2024

🎉🐾 Attention APDT family and fur-friends! 🐾🎉

The APDT Swag Shop isn't just for humans—it's for our furry companions too! 🐶❤️ Check out our adorable bandanas and cozy doggie sweaters that will make your pups the talk of ! 🐕✨

Head over to shopapdt.com and treat your dog to some stylish swag! The bandana can be found here: https://www.shopapdt.com/apdt_conference_2024/shop/product-detail/1000528

Let’s make sure our canine companions are as conference-ready as we are! 🛍️👕Shop now and fetch these must-have items for your four-legged friends! 🚀🎊

This is a FREE APDT webinar for those aspiring to become a professional dog trainer! The Association of Professional Dog...
17/07/2024

This is a FREE APDT webinar for those aspiring to become a professional dog trainer! The Association of Professional Dog Trainers, APDT, is a professional organization of individual trainers who are committed to becoming better trainers through education. This webinar will answer the most common questions on becoming a dog trainer.

🐾What school do I attend?
🐾Can you earn a living as a dog trainer?
🐾How do I become a dog trainer?
🐾How do I get certified?

You will be provided with numerous resources to assist you in your quest to becoming a dog successful dog trainer.

Dog training is a tremendously rewarding career and APDT want to make sure you know what is involved in becoming a trainer. Start here! https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/16109

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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.