BOARD OF CANINE BEHAVIORISTS
Professional Certification
FOUNDATION CERTIFICATION
Canine Behavior
Associate (CBA)
The foundation credential for individuals beginning their professional journey in evidence-based canine behavior.
Download Candidate Handbook
FOUNDATIONAL KNOWLEDGE
Build a solid understanding of canine behavior, learning theory, and the principles that form the foundation of ethical professional practice.
ETHICAL PRACTICE
Learn to apply humane, welfare-focused, and evidence-based approaches while maintaining high professional and ethical standards.
GLOBAL COMMUNITY
Join an international community of professionals committed to advancing canine behavior through education and collaboration.
PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
Establish a recognised foundation for continued learning and progression toward higher Board certifications.
The Canine Behavior Associate (CBA) certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a foundational understanding of canine behavior, learning theory, welfare, and ethical professional practice. It is designed for those beginning a career in canine behavior or expanding their professional knowledge through structured certification.
A Strong Foundation for
Professional Practice
──────── WHO THIS CERTIFICATION IS FOR ────────
DOG TRAINERS
Individuals beginning their careers in dog training who wish to build a strong foundation in behavior, learning theory, and ethical practice.
Animal Shelter Staff
Professionals supporting shelter and rescue organizations through behavioral assessment, enrichment, and welfare-focused care.
Students Beginning Their Career
Students and aspiring professionals preparing for careers in canine behavior, training, rehabilitation, or animal welfare.
Veterinary Nurses & Assistants
Veterinary support professionals seeking a deeper understanding of canine behavior to enhance patient care and client education.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
The CBA program provides the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to support ethical, effective, and science-based canine behavior practice.
CANINE LEARNING THEORY
BEHAVIOR OBSERVATION & ASSESSMENT
HUMANE & ETHICAL PRACTICE
PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATION
Understand how dogs learn through scientifically supported principles, including classical and operant conditioning, reinforcement, motivation, and behavioral development.
Learn to interpret canine body language, recognize emotional states, identify common behavioral concerns, and document observations using a structured and objective approach.
Apply welfare-focused, humane methods that prioritize the wellbeing of dogs and uphold the highest ethical standards outlined in the Board’s Code of Ethics.
Communicate effectively with clients, veterinary professionals, shelter teams, and colleagues while providing clear, evidence-based guidance and maintaining professional standards.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Applicants should demonstrate:
Minimum age of 18 years
Interest in and commitment to canine behavior
Agreement to uphold the Board’s Code of Ethics
Completion of the online application
Successful completion of the CBA examination
CBA
APPLICATION & FEES
Applying for certification is a straightforward two-step process.
1
2
STEP 1
STEP 2
Submit Your Application
Schedule Your Examination
APPLICATION FEE
$100 USD
✦
Non-refundable application fee.
REMAINING CERTIFICATION FEE
$295 USD
✦
Following approval of your application.
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Following approval of your application, you’ll pay the remaining
certification fee to schedule your examination. Once payment has
been received, you’ll receive access to the Official CBA Study Guide,
Candidate Handbook, and examination instructions.
All certification fees are listed in U.S. Dollars (USD). Final charges in your local currency are determined by your payment provider at the prevailing exchange rate.
Your $100 application fee is credited toward the total certification fee upon approval.
TOTAL CERTIFICATION FEE
$395 USD
