PCOTC Instructors Section: What Do The Initials Mean?

Many of our instructors have initials in their biographies and/or after their names, indicating a certification associated with dog training. The list below explains these credentials.

Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers

CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed) - www.ccpdt.org

Indicates that the animal professional has experience; references from a veterinarian, client, and colleague; and has passed a comprehensive, psychometrically sound examination.

CPDT-KSA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge and Skills Assessed) - www.ccpdt.org

Indicates that this animal professional has passed an additional objective skills- based assessment.

Karen Pryor Academy

KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner) - www.karenpryoracademy.com

Designates completion of 6-month course combining online learning with hands-on teaching from some of the most experienced teachers in the field.

K9 Nose Work

NACSW (The National Association of Canine Scent Work) -  www.nacsw.net

Sets the standards governing the sport of K9 Nose Work®.

ANWI (Associate Nose Work Instructor) - www.nacsw.net

Designates those who are enrolled in the NACSW instructor program and have demonstrated their commitment to teach K9 Nose Work as developed by the founders of the sport.

CNWI (Certified Nose Work Instructor) - www.nacsw.net

Indicates participating in coursework taught by one or more of the founders, application of key concepts by leading practice groups and classes, and on-going training of a dog in K9 Nose Work through the advanced level.