
BOARD OF CANINE BEHAVIORISTS
Professional Certification
CERTIFICATION
Canine Behavior
Consultant (CBC)
The Canine Behavior Consultant (CBC) certification recognizes professionals who have demonstrated competency in canine behaviour, behaviour assessment, learning theory, behaviour modification, and ethical practice. It is designed for individuals prepared to independently assess behavioural concerns and develop evidence-based behaviour plans that improve canine welfare and strengthen the human-animal bond.
Download Candidate Handbook


BEHAVIOR ASSESSMENT
Develop the skills to evaluate canine behaviour through structured observation, behavioural history, and scientific interpretation.
EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE
Apply modern behavioural science and learning theory to create effective, welfare-focused behaviour modification strategies.
GLOBAL PROFESSIONAL
RECOGNITION
Join an international network of professionals committed to advancing canine behaviour through education, ethical practice, and continuing professional development.
PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCY
Demonstrate the judgement, communication, and practical skills expected of independent canine behaviour consultants.
The Canine Behavior Consultant (CBC) certification recognizes professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge and practical competency required to assess canine behaviour, develop evidence-based behaviour modification plans, and apply ethical decision-making in real-world consulting environments. It is designed for experienced professionals seeking formal recognition of their expertise and a pathway toward advanced Board certification.
Professional Competency
in Canine Behaviour
──────── WHO THIS CERTIFICATION IS FOR ────────
PROFESSIONAL DOG TRAINERS
Trainers seeking formal recognition of their behavioural knowledge and consulting competency.
BEHAVIOUR CONSULTANTS
Professionals providing behaviour assessment and modification services for companion animals.
EXPERIENCED CANINE
PROFESSIONALS
Individuals with practical experience who are ready to demonstrate professional competency through Board certification.
VETERINARY PROFESSIONALS
Veterinary teams wishing to strengthen their behavioural knowledge and improve client education.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
The CBC program develops the advanced knowledge, analytical skills, and practical competencies required to independently assess canine behaviour and implement evidence-based behaviour modification strategies.
ADVANCED LEARNING THEORY
BEHAVIOUR ASSESSMENT & ANALYSIS
BEHAVIOUR MODIFICATION PLANNING
PROFESSIONAL CONSULTATION
Apply advanced principles of learning theory, motivation, reinforcement, emotional processes, and behavioural science to support meaningful and lasting behaviour change.
Conduct comprehensive behavioural assessments using case histories, structured observation, and functional analysis to identify the factors influencing behaviour.
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, and multidisciplinary teams while presenting clear behavioural recommendations and practical guidance.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Applicants should demonstrate:
Minimum age of 18 years
Minimum of 1 year of practical experience
Demonstrated understanding of canine behaviour and
learning theory
Agreement to uphold the Board’s Code of Ethics
Successful completion of the CBC examination

CBC
APPLICATION & FEES
Begin your professional certification through the Board’s two-step application process.
1
2
STEP 1
STEP 2
Submit Your Application
Schedule Your Examination
APPLICATION FEE
$100 USD
✦
Non-refundable application fee.
REMAINING CERTIFICATION FEE
$895 USD
✦
Following approval of your application.
→
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 CBC 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
$995 USD


READY TO BEGIN?
Begin Your Professional Journey
◆
Start building the knowledge, credibility, and professional standards that define Board Certified canine behaviour professionals.
Applications are accepted year-round.
BEGIN YOUR APPLICATION