CDBC dog trainers

Explore businesses stating CDBC qualifications and ask which trainer holds the designation. Choose your location to find a trainer near you.

CDBC qualifications: what to look for

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CDBC means Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, a certification awarded by the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, or IAABC. The assessment focuses on canine behavior consulting. It is different from simply being a member or holding another qualification from the organization.

For owners seeking help with complex behavior, use the designation to start a more detailed conversation about the consultant’s experience, assessment process and ongoing support. Verify the named individual and ask who will actually work with your household.

Questions to ask before booking

  • Who will lead our appointments and which credential do they hold?
  • Can you explain how your experience relates to our training needs?
Explore the guide8 sections

Understand what IAABC evaluates

IAABC describes itself as a third-party credentialing body that evaluates existing experience, knowledge and professional judgment. Its certification process includes written work such as case studies and responses to scenarios. CDBC is its dog-specific certified behavior consultant designation.

This gives you information about the type of professional assessment behind the initials. It does not describe every service the consultant currently offers, so ask whether they work with your particular concern and what additional experience is relevant.

Check membership and certification separately

A business may mention IAABC through membership, professional education or a credential. Ask for the exact designation and check the individual through IAABC’s official resources. Do not infer CDBC from an organization logo alone.

If more than one staff member supports the case, clarify their roles. Ask who conducts the assessment, writes the plan and reviews progress. A trainer providing practice sessions may work with a consultant, but that relationship should be explained rather than left implicit.

Discuss the first consultation

Describe your dog’s behavior in specific situations, previous training and the household’s current routines. Ask what information to provide beforehand and how the meeting is organized. If your dog finds unfamiliar people or places difficult, request practical arrival arrangements before attending.

Ask how the consultant develops goals and distinguishes immediate management needs from longer-term skill development. You should understand what you will be asked to do, what support is available and how the plan accounts for the people and space in your home.

Evaluate follow-up and collaboration

Find out how often the plan is reviewed and which observations the consultant needs. Written instructions, practice feedback and clear contact arrangements can make a detailed behavior plan easier to use. Ask what happens if progress is uneven or an exercise proves impractical.

CDBC is not a veterinary credential. If veterinary input is relevant, ask how the consultant collaborates with your veterinarian and whether a referral is recommended. A clear division of responsibilities helps keep training advice, medical questions and practical support coordinated.

Match dog behavior consulting to the problem

Certified dog behavior consultants may work with behavior problems involving fear, anxiety, aggression, phobias or compulsive behaviors. Ask the individual which kinds of cases they currently accept. A broad certification scope does not mean every consultant specializes in every concern.

For reactivity on walks, explain what your dog reacts to, where the difficulty occurs and what makes the situation easier or harder. For a concern around visitors, describe the home layout and the people involved. These concrete details help the consultant discuss assessment and behavior modification without relying on a label alone.

Ask how the plan connects canine behavior observations with practical teaching. The consultant should explain what you will practice, what arrangements help avoid repeatedly difficult situations and how feedback will be reviewed. Training advice becomes more useful when you can see how it applies to an ordinary day in your household.

Compare CDBC with dog trainer and veterinary credentials

CDBC is an IAABC credential. The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, or CCPDT, separately offers CPDT-KA for a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and CBCC-KA for canine behavior consulting. These are different credentialing systems, so verify the exact designation and issuing body rather than assuming similar initials describe the same assessment.

A trainer may hold several credentials and offer both dog training and behavior modification. Ask which experience supports the service you need. Teaching everyday skills and consulting on complex behavior concerns can require different levels of assessment, follow-up and collaboration.

A veterinary behaviorist has a veterinary specialist role. A CDBC may collaborate with one or with your regular veterinarian, but CDBC alone does not make someone a veterinarian. If veterinary input is relevant, ask who provides it and how it will be coordinated with practical instruction.

Check continuing education and current professional practice

IAABC states that credential holders must complete continuing education requirements, currently 36 continuing education units over three years. Ask how the consultant’s recent learning relates to their casework and verify current status through the organization.

Trainers and behavior consultants should be able to discuss their knowledge and skills in language that makes sense to a client. You can ask how learning theory informs an exercise, how body language is considered or what would prompt a referral. The purpose is to understand the professional’s judgment and proposed help, not to test whether you know technical terminology.

Understand the certification exam and behavior modification plans

IAABC describes its certified consultant level as intended for professionals with at least three years of experience consulting on complex behavior cases. The certification exam is writing-intensive and includes case studies, scenario responses and evidence of applied work. It evaluates professional reasoning rather than requiring completion of one school’s certification program.

Certified consultants also work within the organization’s code of ethics and standards of practice. Ask how those commitments guide a practical decision, such as choosing a manageable starting exercise or collaborating with another professional. This helps you understand the relationship between formal assessment and everyday animal behavior consulting.

For behavior and training support, request a plan that identifies goals, practice arrangements, information to record and the next review. Ask how positive reinforcement is used and how the consultant responds when an exercise is too difficult. Useful behavior modification plans should help the household carry out the work, with dog training coaching available in the format agreed with the provider.

45 businesses

House of Dog Training Boarding & Behavior Center

Colorado Springs, Colorado

4.9/5· 466 Google reviews

This location offers boarding, board&train and daycare and dayschool for all types of dogs, even cautious dogs. For private lessons and classes, please see our…Read in fullShow less

This location offers boarding, board&train and daycare and dayschool for all types of dogs, even cautious dogs. For private lessons and classes, please see our Training Center at 416 Fillmore St. Our goal is to strengthen the bond between you and your companion animal. We believe in the natural science of behavior. Our training and behavior change programs are geared towards real-world behavior engineering, making it more efficient and effective. We identify the actual (verifiable) causes of behavior, changing the behavior rather than suppressing the behavior. We pride ourselves on staying educated and current on all the newest developments and training methods so we may better serve you and your companion animal.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Obedience training

Beyond the Dog, LLC

Houston, Texas

4.9/5· 271 Google reviews

Programs include behavior consultation, canine good citizen preparation and crate…Read in fullShow less

Programs include behavior consultation, canine good citizen preparation and crate training.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Crate training

Beyond the Dog

Tampa, Florida

5/5· 270 Google reviews

At Beyond the Dog training we strive to reach your dog's full potential through a variety of training programs. We cater each training program whether it’s obedience…Read in fullShow less

At Beyond the Dog training we strive to reach your dog's full potential through a variety of training programs. We cater each training program whether it’s obedience, aggression or basic puppy training to fit your dog's individual needs. Led by a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, our team of trainers are up to any training task. Our private, in-home training programs have been found to be highly effective as we are addressing your dog’s behavior where it typically occurs. Dog training is not just our job at Beyond the Dog, but our passion.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Crate training

Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland

Silver Spring, Maryland

4.9/5· 204 Google reviews

Pawz For Health Dog Training Maryland, provides in home dog training servicing areas: Silver Spring, Bethesda, Kensington, Olney, Rockville, Ashton, Fulton and…Read in fullShow less

Pawz For Health Dog Training Maryland, provides in home dog training servicing areas: Silver Spring, Bethesda, Kensington, Olney, Rockville, Ashton, Fulton and surrounding areas. We use positive reinforcement dog training methods and never support the use of shock collars ever! We work with puppy behavior problems such as: Puppy manners, crate training, housebreaking, jumping, puppy biting/nipping, separation anxiety, leash walking, off leash walking, coming when called, obedience (sit/down/stay/off/leave it/drop it/door manners. We train owners to train their dog through developing a trusting respectful relationship. Janet Oquendo is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer & Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Call a Certified Trainer now.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Crate training
  • House training

USA Dog Behavior, LLC

Dallas, Texas

4.9/5· 167 Google reviews

Canine Behavior Consultant and Aggression Specialist Scott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA Canine Behavior Assessment • Diagnosis • Prognosis • Treatment…Read in fullShow less

Canine Behavior Consultant and Aggression Specialist Scott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA Canine Behavior Assessment • Diagnosis • Prognosis • Treatment Recommendations Scott Sheaffer is a certified canine behavior consultant specializing in serious canine behavior problems. Through a comprehensive online consultation, he helps dog owners understand their dog’s behavior, its potential danger, the prognosis, and the most appropriate treatment options. Clients throughout the United States can access his specialized expertise online. Visit our website to contact us, learn about the consultation process, explore pricing, see what to expect, and access free canine behavior education through articles and podcasts.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Obedience training · customer-reported
  • Socialization

Whole Dog Institute

Durham, North Carolina

4.9/5· 165 Google reviews

Whole Dog Institute is a local dog training business serving clients in the Durham-Chapel Hill-Hillsborough area. We help our students understand how to communicate…Read in fullShow less

Whole Dog Institute is a local dog training business serving clients in the Durham-Chapel Hill-Hillsborough area. We help our students understand how to communicate more effectively with their dogs and how to solve basic behavioral challenges, as well as teaching dogs what we want from them. We offer private lessons and group classes in obedience (puppy, teen and adult dog classes), Therapy Dog prep, Reactive Dog classes (for leash reactivity), K9 Nose Work®, and agility for fun. Contact us today for more information!

  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • House training
  • Leash training

Michigan Dog Training

Plymouth, Michigan

4.8/5· 158 Google reviews

MICHAEL Burkey, CEO and Dog Behaviorist with 45 years experience and his highly trained team at Michigan Dog Training in Plymouth, Michigan specialize in helping high…Read in fullShow less

MICHAEL Burkey, CEO and Dog Behaviorist with 45 years experience and his highly trained team at Michigan Dog Training in Plymouth, Michigan specialize in helping high energy dogs, fearful aggressive dogs, and Service Dogs. Michael is a professional dog trainer and dog behaviorist who has been highlighted regularly on Metro Detroit News Channels 2, 4 & 7, WJR Radio and has been the “On Set Dog Trainer” for movies and commercials. Michael is an: * Expert trial witness on dog behavior, * Specializes in aggression rehabilitation / modification * Service Dog Trainer, * Former Police K9 Officer, * Search and Rescue (SAR) K9 Training Director and SAR K9 Handler, * Social Worker, and * Obedience and Rally competitor with 1st Place finishes.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Crate training

Confident Canines LLC by Las Vegas Animal Behavior

Las Vegas, Nevada

5/5· 120 Google reviews

Eileen Koval is an applied animal behaviorist and IAABC certified dog behavior consultant (CDBC) in the state of NV. She offers private behavior consultations…Read in fullShow less

Eileen Koval is an applied animal behaviorist and IAABC certified dog behavior consultant (CDBC) in the state of NV. She offers private behavior consultations, training, and emotional & behavioral modification primarily for dogs, but also cats/birds/horses for issues like aggression, fear, anxiety, guarding, noise phobias, repetitive behaviors, chewing, separation issues, destruction, and private training for obedience/manners. She also offer agility group classes snake avoidance training. Training is designed around developing a pet who is motivated and wants to work with their human, and enhancing human understanding and communication with their pet. Convenient online booking is available on the website.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Leash training

KW Happy Dogs

Woodacre, California

5/5· 80 Google reviews

Happy Dogs. Happier People. Dog Behavior Consulting, Training, and Enrichment- I am a positive-based IAABC Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and a Licensed Family Dog…Read in fullShow less

Happy Dogs. Happier People. Dog Behavior Consulting, Training, and Enrichment- I am a positive-based IAABC Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and a Licensed Family Dog Mediator. I find solutions for your dog's struggles and teach them alternate behaviors. We will work together to nurture and guide your dog so they become more calm, confident and connected to you. I specialize in aggression and reactivity. Looking for education and enrichment for your dog? Reach out today for private sessions geared to meet you and your dog's needs. I also am a mentor teacher and have a school for Dog People (dog enthusiasts and professionals). Check out Canine Behavior Education

  • Behavior consultation
  • Puppy training
  • Socialization · customer-reported

Success Just Clicks Dog Training

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

5/5· 77 Google reviews

Learn from the best trainers in Pittsburgh! All of our lead trainers are Certified Professional Dog Trainers (and some of our assistant trainers are as well!) and the…Read in fullShow less

Learn from the best trainers in Pittsburgh! All of our lead trainers are Certified Professional Dog Trainers (and some of our assistant trainers are as well!) and the owner is both a CPDT and a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant specializing in behavior challenges. We offer group classes, private training, and day training for a wide arrange of needs and goals! Puppy training, basic manners, CGC prep, advanced manners, real life skills, therapy dogs, service dogs, many different dog sports, tricks, parkour, plus behavior challenges like reactivity, aggression, stranger danger, resource guarding, and more. We do NOT have 'open' hours. The hours listed are approximate hours where our various trainers teach classes or private sessions

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Leash training

All FUR Fun Training and Event Center

Addison, Texas

4.6/5· 69 Google reviews

All FUR Fun is all about training dogs AND people. We call ourselves “dog trainers” but, in fact, a very small part of the business is training dogs. What we…Read in fullShow less

All FUR Fun is all about training dogs AND people. We call ourselves “dog trainers” but, in fact, a very small part of the business is training dogs. What we ultimately do is train people how to communicate more effectively with their dogs and puppies. Our mission at All FUR Fun is to provide a place to open the lines of communication and enhance the bond between you and your dog. We want your dog to feel secure, happy, well mannered, and to be a valued member of your household.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Obedience training
  • Puppy training

PumpkinPups Dog Training Inc.

Brooklyn, New York

5/5· 68 Google reviews

PumpkinPups Dog Training has been working on behavior and training with dogs and their family's professionally since 2005. Our goal is to coach our clients to help…Read in fullShow less

PumpkinPups Dog Training has been working on behavior and training with dogs and their family's professionally since 2005. Our goal is to coach our clients to help them understand why they dogs do the things they do, and the become as efficient and skilled at meeting their dogs where they are to improve behavior. We work with dog of all ages, breeds, and training needs using modern and humane techniques that are enjoyable for the dog and their guardians. Depending on client needs both private sessions and virtual group and in-person group classes are available. Email us through the website to find out more.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Leash training

Canine Companion Consulting

Fort Collins, Colorado

4.9/5· 55 Google reviews

Canine Companion Consulting, we train dogs one human at a time using positive research-based…Read in fullShow less

Canine Companion Consulting, we train dogs one human at a time using positive research-based methods.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Leash training

Horns to Halos Dog Training, L.L.C.

Richlands, North Carolina

4.8/5· 55 Google reviews

Horns to Halos Dog Training,L.L.C. is run Katie Barger a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Certified Dog Trainer, Canine Enrichment Technician, Dog Bite Prevention…Read in fullShow less

Horns to Halos Dog Training,L.L.C. is run Katie Barger a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Certified Dog Trainer, Canine Enrichment Technician, Dog Bite Prevention Educator and member of Association of Professional Dog Trainers. Specialize in aggression, fear, and anxiety but also offering obedience and socialization to help prevent those behaviors from appearing. All training programs are customized to help you and your dog build not just better behavior but a better relationship together. While most clients opt for private lessons we also offer board and train, seminars, workshops, and day training options. All options start by visiting the website! We look forward to helping you and your dog live your best life together!

  • Crate training
  • House training
  • Leash training

Dog's Play

Archer, Florida

5/5· 53 Google reviews

Dog's Play Training provides professional dog training, puppy training, behavior modification, reactive dog training, service dog training, AKC programs, boarding…Read in fullShow less

Dog's Play Training provides professional dog training, puppy training, behavior modification, reactive dog training, service dog training, AKC programs, boarding, daycare, and grooming services in Gainesville, Florida. Led by Julie Hughes, the area's only board-certified dog behavior consultant within 100 miles, we help dogs and their families build lasting success through customized, science-based training programs.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • House training

Grace Dog Training & Behavior

Wheat Ridge, Colorado

4.8/5· 49 Google reviews

The Grace Dog Training & Behavior team is a member of APDT and the IAABC, training both virtually and in the greater Denver, Colorado area. Grace Dog Training &…Read in fullShow less

The Grace Dog Training & Behavior team is a member of APDT and the IAABC, training both virtually and in the greater Denver, Colorado area. Grace Dog Training & Behavior relies on reward-based techniques to teach and build good behavior. When you come to us for training, your dogs will always be treated with great kindness and respect, and training will be fun. We promise you that we will never use harsh corrections, a choke chain, a pincher collar or a shock collar on your dog, ever. Grace Dog Training & Behavior offers virtual and in-person private training, phone consultations, online community training and more. Contact us today for a custom training program offering safe and effective training for you and your dog.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Crate training
  • Leash training

Morgan’s Dog Training

Tallahassee, Florida

4.9/5· 49 Google reviews

Programs include canine good citizen preparation, house training and leash…Read in fullShow less

Programs include canine good citizen preparation, house training and leash training.

  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • House training
  • Leash training

Focus Dog Training - Obedience Dog Training

Montgomery, Texas

4.9/5· 47 Google reviews

With good obedience training, your dog can be trained to come now and come fast--and to execute this command reliably. Ultimately, this creates a more enjoyable…Read in fullShow less

With good obedience training, your dog can be trained to come now and come fast--and to execute this command reliably. Ultimately, this creates a more enjoyable relationship between you and your dog. I am a combination trainer, which means I can recommend which training aids best fit your dog’s personality and environment (home, park, trails, neighborhood), without sacrificing any of your dog’s behaviors that you love. I use multiple training methods to meet your goals. I will put together a customized training program for you and your dogs specific needs.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Obedience training
  • Puppy training

Salty Dogs Obedience & Adventure

Surry, Maine

4.9/5· 47 Google reviews

Educating dogs and empowering owners throughout the Blue Hill Peninsula, Ellsworth/MDI, Belfast and Downeast Maine. Founded by Certified Dog Behavior Consultant…Read in fullShow less

Educating dogs and empowering owners throughout the Blue Hill Peninsula, Ellsworth/MDI, Belfast and Downeast Maine. Founded by Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Whitney Thurston, our focus is on quality training that helps you truly connect with your dog. We offer general obedience training and group classes as well as day training and customized private training plans. Additionally, Whitney Thurston, CDBC, is one of the only certified dog behaviorists in Maine and is able to help with behavior modification for aggressive and fearful behavior dogs.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation · customer-reported
  • Crate training

Gooddogz Training

Westbrook, Maine

4.8/5· 46 Google reviews

Dog Training and Behavior Modification with a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Nancy Freedman-smith CDBC, CBATI has 28 years professional experience. Positive *…Read in fullShow less

Dog Training and Behavior Modification with a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Nancy Freedman-smith CDBC, CBATI has 28 years professional experience. Positive * Motivational * Fun

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation · customer-reported
  • House training

Courteous Canine

Wakefield, Rhode Island

4.8/5· 43 Google reviews

We offer dog training classes & private training sessions.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Leash training

Jenn's Dogs

Cornelius, Oregon

4.8/5· 42 Google reviews

Jenn's Dogs, established in January 2020, is a Cornelius based dog training studio specializing in clear, compassionate communication between humans and their canine…Read in fullShow less

Jenn's Dogs, established in January 2020, is a Cornelius based dog training studio specializing in clear, compassionate communication between humans and their canine companions. They offer group classes, private sessions, and puppy social playtime, along with basic manners training and behavior modification plans for reactive and aggressive dogs. Jenn's Dogs prioritizes humane and ethical treatment, with the trainer being a certified professional and member of various reputable organizations.

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • Leash training

Mountainside Mutts

Rutland, Vermont

5/5· 37 Google reviews

Mountainside Mutts is a premier, female-owned small business in Rutland County, Vermont, specializing in modern, rewards-based dog training and behavior consultation.…Read in fullShow less

Mountainside Mutts is a premier, female-owned small business in Rutland County, Vermont, specializing in modern, rewards-based dog training and behavior consultation. We offer both private coaching sessions and group classes to meet all your dog training needs. Our passion is helping dedicated pet parents set their new dogs up for success. Our signature Puppy Start Right program provides foundational training and socialization for puppies aged 8 to 16 weeks. As the only certified dog behavior consultant in Rutland County, we address common behavior problems like nuisance jumping, leash-pulling, and fear of strangers using humane methods, without resorting to aversive tools like prong, choke, or shock collars.

  • Behavior consultation
  • House training
  • Leash training

BADDogs

Corona, California

4.4/5· 36 Google reviews

BADDogsInc offers a variety of services and specialize in private training and behavior modification services conducted at our facility in the heart of Corona, CA.…Read in fullShow less

BADDogsInc offers a variety of services and specialize in private training and behavior modification services conducted at our facility in the heart of Corona, CA. Our clients represent a diverse group of individuals whose common interest is the love of their companion dogs and a desire to make their lives together the best it can be. We offer dog training, puppy training, dog obedience classes, and pet manners classes. Sign up for clicker training classes, tricks classes, private dog training, and puppy socialization. CGC training & CGC testing, group dog training classes, kennel training, day training, board and train,and pet first aid are all available!

  • Behavior consultation
  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
  • House training

Frequently asked questions

More detail to help you choose and prepare.

Is every IAABC member a CDBC?

No. IAABC membership and CDBC certification are different statuses. The organization also offers other credentials. Ask for the exact designation held by the person who will assess and support your dog.

Does CDBC mean the consultant only works with aggression?

No. IAABC describes certified behavior consulting as addressing a range of complex concerns, including fear and anxiety. Ask the individual about their current case focus and experience with the specific behavior affecting your household.

What makes a consultation useful to compare?

Request an explanation of intake, goal setting, written instructions, follow-up and referral arrangements. These details show how the consultant’s expertise will become a plan you can use, beyond the credential itself.

Are the CDBC and CBCC-KA certification exams the same?

No. CDBC is assessed through IAABC’s written process, including applied casework and scenarios. CBCC-KA is a separate CCPDT qualification with a multiple-choice examination and its own eligibility requirements. Compare the issuing organization and assessment rather than treating all behavior certifications as identical.

Further reading: International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, IAABC credentials and assessment process, CCPDT behavior consultant and trainer credentials, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists guide for animal owners

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