Dover - Local dog trainer Beth Peterson of Positive Pups & Ponies Learning Center in Dover, Delaware has earned Professional Dog Trainer certification through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), the first national certification for dog trainers. Beth Peterson, the first CPDT and Tellington TTouch Practitioner (CTTP) in Delaware, now joins more than 700 CPDTs from the United States, Canada, Singapore, Japan and the Bahamas.

Peterson is animal behaviorist for the Kent County SPCA. She conducts Basic Manners, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Therapy Dogs International (TDI), Pet First Aid and Tellington TTouch classes on a regular basis. As a certified CGC and TDI evaluator, she regularly conducts these evaluations at the SPCA, Dover AFB and the Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill. Peterson coordinates Pet Visitation and Animal Assisted Therapy programs, assists the SPCA staff with dog behavioral issues, and is a 5-year member of the Delaware State Dog Control Panel.

Until the creation of the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers in 2001, there was no true certification process for dog trainers. Many schools teach dog trainers and offer certification for their specific programs. These certificates, therefore, reflect the teachings and quality of a specific school. Other organizations offer take-home test for "certification." The trainers are not monitored to make sure they are completing the test without any assistance or collaboration, nor is the test process standardized.

This unprecedented process was originally implemented by the APDT, the largest association of dog trainers in the world, founded by noted veterinarian, behaviorist, and author Dr. Ian Dunbar. Early on, the APDT recognized the needs for certification for its profession. Pet dog trainers needed a credible means of measuring their knowledge and shills and the dog-owning public needed a credible barometer for choosing a trainer. A task force of approximately 20 internationally known dog training professionals and behaviorists worked for three years to research and develop the comprehensive written examination. The APDT also hired Professional Testing Corporation to ensure the process met professional testing standards. It then created a separate, independent council - the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers - to manage the accreditation and pursue future development.

Candidates who pass the exam earn the tile Certified Pet Dog Trainer and may use the designation, "CPDT," after their names. All certified trainers must earn continuing education credits to maintain their designations, or take the examination again in three years. The CCPDT administered its first test on September 28, 2001.

Why Choose a Certified Professional Dog Trainer?

You care about your dog. You want a positive experience for both you and your four-footed friend. Whether you are looking for a training class or private training, you are looking for a high-quality, safe, and effective training experience.

When you choose a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT), you can be confident that you are working with a professional who has the knowledge and expertise to make your investment in dog training safe, effective, and even fun! CPDTs have dog training skills as well as instructor skills to enhance the experience and success for you and your pet dog. CPDTs have earned this credential by demonstrating their knowledge and experience in dog training. A CPDT stays informed of current knowledge in the field and is familiar with the latest, most effective training techniques and equipment.

The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers is committed to maintaining rigorous testing and recertification systems to provide dog owners with information to help them make an informed choice when selecting a dog trainer. So the next time you need a dog trainer, look for a professional with the Certified Pet Dog Trainer credential. Your dog will thank you. To find a CPDT in your area, see the Certified Pet Dog Trainers Roster Website.

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