Ethics and Professional Conduct

The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers® (CCPDT®) sets and maintains industry-recognized standards for professional competence and ethical conduct in dog training and behavior consulting. Ethical practice protects dogs, supports clients, and strengthens public trust in our profession.

Through an independent, psychometrically validated certification process, the CCPDT ensures trainers demonstrate both professional knowledge and ethical responsibility. Our certificants are committed to effective, humane, practical, and outcome-driven training strategies that are consistently informed by evolving science and real-world experience – prioritizing dog welfare and client safety first.

Our Ethical Standards

All CCPDT certificants must follow the:

Together, these policies define what ethical, evidence-based practice looks like in the real world. They guide certificants in making responsible, humane decisions that prioritize safety, well-being, and professionalism.

CCPDT policies apply to all certificants (CPDT-KA®, CPDT-KSA®, and CBCC-KA®). They govern conduct across all professional settings, including training, consultation, supervision, and communication, whether in person or online.

The CCPDT does not have authority over trainers who are not currently certified by our organization.

Enforcement and Accountability

The CCPDT enforces its ethical standards through the Certification Compliance and Disciplinary Procedures, ensuring fairness and transparency in every case.

Certificants found in violation of the CCPDT Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics or related policies may face sanctions such as a letter of reprimand, corrective education, suspension, or revocation of certification.

Ethical practice requires professional judgment and self-awareness. Certificants are expected to know and uphold CCPDT policies at all times – lack of awareness is not a defense against misconduct.

Ethical Decision-Making

Ethical dilemmas are an inevitable part of professional practice. Certificants are expected to:

  • Identify and evaluate each situation carefully.
  • Prioritize safety, welfare, and client well-being.
  • Use reinforcement-based methods and avoid harm.
  • Make decisions consistent with both the letter and spirit of CCPDT policies, positions, and practices.

By following these principles, certificants maintain the integrity of their profession and the trust of the public they serve.

Filing an Ethics Complaint

The CCPDT takes all ethical concerns seriously. To protect the public, dogs, and the credibility of our credentials, we investigate complaints of alleged ethical misconduct involving current certificants.

Anyone may submit a complaint if they believe a CCPDT certificant has violated the CCPDT Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics or related policies. Complaints are handled by the Certification Compliance Committee in accordance with the Certification Compliance and Disciplinary Procedures.

Learn About the Complaint Process
Submit a Complaint of Ethical Violation