CAPDT Blog & Updates
Annual General Meeting 2026
Our Annual General Meeting brought together 76 attendees from across the country for an evening filled with updates, progress, and excitement for the future of CAPDT. Members received a comprehensive recap of the work accomplished over the past year, including updates to the complaint process based directly on feedback shared
The CVMA Supports Developing a National Certifying Body
The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) has taken a strong and clear position on dog training in Canada. They support the development of a national certifying body to establish consistent standards for dog trainers—standards based on humane, evidence-based, reward-based methods. Source Why is this important? Currently in Canada, anyone can
Member Feature: Kelly Crawford DEIB
Welcoming Our New DEIB Committee Chair The Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers is pleased to introduce Kelly Crawford (she/they) as the new Chair of the DEIB Committee (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging). Kelly brings a deep commitment to both animal welfare and community support, with a training philosophy
Member Feature: Donna Ashley
“Whether you are training a new puppy, or facing behaviour challenges with your older dog, I’ll guide you towards your goals while prioritizing both your education and your dog’s well-being. I hope to help you embrace the life-long journey of learning and an ever-growing connection with your beloved canine!” As
Understanding Associative Conditioning In Behaviour Work
by Andrew Perkins Best Friends Training In a week of dog walks, I probably see two or three different people trying to get their hyper-aroused dogs to hold a stay or a “watch-me” while an unfamiliar dog is walked past on the sidewalk. In some cases the dog holds the
Understanding and Honouring Canine Consent in Training and Behaviour Work
by Jaime Knowles, CPDT-KA, FFCP (Trainer), Dip. CSBT www.GoodDog-Academy.com In recent years, the concept of consent has become a growing area of focus in the professional dog training community. Rooted in compassion and evidence-based practice, consent-based training not only respects the emotional and physical well-being of our canine companions but
