Association Of Professional Dog Trainers

The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) is a professional organization of individual dog trainers who are committed to becoming better trainers through education. The APDT was founded in 1993 by Ian Dunbar DVM, Ph.D., as a forum for trainers to associate with one another and to discuss topics of mutual interest. We have since become a member-driven organization producing educational conferences in locations throughout the United States. Our annual conference has grown from 250 participants a few years ago to 1,500 participants. Our membership has grown at a similar rate to 6,000 members worldwide. Our organization is a voice for professional dog trainers. We offer a unique opportunity for networking and the sharing of ideas through our conferences, membership directory, newsletter and seminars. We refer, but do not endorse, members listed in our membership directory to clients who call or visit our web page on a daily basis looking for a trainer in their area. Our members include world renowned speakers and authors, veterinarians, dog trainers, dog club members, humane society personnel and service dog trainers. The APDT offers individual professional dog trainers a respected and concerted voice in the dog world. We continue to promote professional trainers to the veterinary profession and to increase public awareness of dog-friendly training techniques.