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By Norma Jeanne Laurette 
OverviewThe International Positive Dog Training Association is an elite professional organization dedicated to taking a stand against abuse in the name of dog training. IPDTA accomplishes this by promoting only humane, force-free and fear-free methods. It provides research findings about aversive tools, free educational materials, as well as a list of IPDTA certified, positive dog trainers worldwide. IPDTA also offers certification and membership for positive dog trainers, as well as an affiliate professional dog trainer, behaviour and aggression therapy certification career course for those who wish to become positive dog trainers. Founded in 2002, IPDTA was the first association in the world to focus exclusively on positive dog training, behaviour and aggression modification techniques, setting the global standard for ethical dog training practices without the use of coercion, intimidation, punishment or reprimands of any kind. IPDTA emphasizes scientifically proven and positive approaches to help dogs and their guardians build strong relationships based on mutual trust and respect, while nurturing well-trained dogs with great temperaments. www.IPDTA.org HistoryNorma Jeanne Laurette, a respected leader in the dog training industry, founded the International Positive Dog Training Association (IPDTA) in 2002. Norma Jeanne joined the Canadian Association Of Professional Pet Dog Trainers (CAPPDT) shortly after its inception in 1994. Over the years she contributed as a conference presenter, columnist and ultimately Editor-in-Chief. She remained with the organization until 2002, when she rescinded her membership after her request to take a stand against abuse in the name of dog training was rejected. Immediately following her departure she founded the International Positive Dog Training Association (IPDTA), the first organization of its kind world-wide dedicated exclusively to force-free, positive dog training. This positioned IPDTA as the pioneer in establishing positive, ethical, fear-free standards across the international dog-training profession. In 2009, CAPPDT changed their name to the Canadian Association Of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT). Since then, both CAPDT and the Association Of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) have followed in IPDTA’s footsteps by formally opposing harsh methods. CAPDT released an updated Code of Ethics in 2021 banning strong aversive tools, and APDT approved a 2023 position statement defining dog-friendly training and implementing a full ban on intentional aversive tools and punishment-based methods (R8) (R9). IPDTA remains the elite, specialized and mandated association that strictly prohibits aversive tools and techniques, and maintains its leadership as the first, force-free organization in the international dog-training industry. For more information about Norma Jeanne click here. Mission StatementOur mission is to educate dog professionals and guardians worldwide by promoting humane, science-based, force-free training, encouraging lifelong learning, and strengthening the relationship between dogs and the people who care for them. Industry PositionThe IPDTA stands out for its unwavering commitment to 100% positive dog training, distinguishing it from other organizations that support the LIMA approach, which stands for “least intrusive, minimally aversive”. LIMA theoretically allows for aversives as a last resort after exhausting less intrusive options. IPDTA stands by the belief that a properly educated trainer can solve any training or behaviour problem without resorting to coercion or discipline (R10). Global ReachIPDTA – International Positive Dog Training Association - Founded 2002. The first elite, international positive dog training association with over 70 certified, positive dog trainer/members worldwide. CCS – Canine Correspondence Studies - Founded 1994. An internationally recognized and respected dog trainer certification career course with over 750 students and graduates in 18 countries. Resources & AdvocacyThe International Positive Dog Training Association provides research findings for aversive tools as well as a growing series of educational articles free of charge. These articles emphasize positive training, behaviour and aggression therapy, ethology, learning theory, ethics and many other dog-related topics, all based on positive training and the latest psychological and scientific data. Key Features & Impact
IPDTA’s Definition Of Abuse In Dog Training & Behaviour ModificationIPDTA defines abuse in dog training and behaviour modification as the use or misuse of any tool, technique or training method that intentionally causes or has a reasonable likelihood of causing unnecessary, physical injury, emotional distress, discomfort, pain or any other form of harm that compromise a dog’s physical safety or emotional wellbeing. Grounded in the principles of operant conditioning established by B.F. Skinner, IPDTA promotes only scientifically proven dog training and behaviour modification practices that emphasize positive methods, voluntary participation and informed choice. The organization’s approach is centred on achieving lasting behavioural change through humane, ethical methods that nurture trust, confidence and positive outcomes, not through punishment or coercion (R1) (R3). The term “necessary” only applies when it’s necessary to handle a dog for health reasons, to keep it safe or save it from harm, or the mild exposure to a stimulus necessary when applying desensitization, counter conditioning, Constructional Aggression Treatment (CAT), Behaviour Adjustment Training (BAT) and similar techniques. IPDTA’s guiding principle is simple: “If you don’t want someone doing it to you, don’t do it to anyone else – animal or human.” Those who truly love dogs do not want to scare or hurt them. The use of coercion in dog training is not only unpleasant for the dog and counter productive to the learning process, it’s unnecessary and unacceptable, because positive dog training works.  IPDTA’s Definition Of Positive Training – What We Use & Do Not UsePositive Reinforcement (R+) WE USE THIS (R6) (R7) The term positive reinforcement refers to adding something pleasant in order to increase the likelihood that a specific behaviour will reoccur. Example: When the dog sits you give it a treat increasing the likelihood that the dog will sit. Application: Adding something pleasant (treat) to increase the behaviour (sit). Positive reinforcement is motivational as well as proactive in nature, resulting in a handler that exhibits benevolent leadership. Positive Punishment (P+) WE DO NOT USE THIS (R6) (R7) The term positive punishment refers to adding something unpleasant in order to decrease the likelihood that a specific behaviour will reoccur. Example: When the dog wanders from heel it’s yanked by the neck back into position with a “pop-release” correction, decreasing the likelihood that the dog will move from heel position. Application: Adding something unpleasant (yank) to decrease the behaviour (moving out of heel position). We do not use this technique nor do we endorse any type of positive punishment. Since positive punishment is reactionary in nature, it does not demonstrate leadership but instead indicates that the trainer is reacting to the dog’s behaviour utilizing intimidation, fear and/or pain to stop unwanted behaviour. Negative Reinforcement (R-) WE USE THIS ONLY AS DESCRIBED IN EXAMPLE B (R6) (R7) The term negative reinforcement refers to removing something unpleasant in order to increase the likelihood that a specific behaviour will reoccur. Example A: The dog will not take the dumbbell into its mouth. The trainer pinches the dog’s ear causing it to yelp due to fear and pain. When the dog’s mouth is open the trainer places the dumbbell inside. When the dog closes its mouth on the dumbbell the trainer releases the painful ear pinch. Application: Removing something unpleasant (painful ear pinch) to increase the behaviour (taking and holding the dumbbell). This method and similar methods are unnecessary and inhumane. We do not use this technique, nor do we endorse this type of negative reinforcement. Example B: A dog that’s reactive to other dogs is walked at a distance where it notices the other dog but remains below threshold. As soon as the reactive dog responds to a cue or looks at the handler, the handler immediately increases the distance from the other dog, thereby removing the aversive stimulus. Application: Removing something unpleasant (the other dog) to increase the behaviour (responding to cues and looking at the handler). We use negative reinforcement techniques that are humane variations of desensitization, counter conditioning, the Constructional Aggression Treatment (CAT) and Behaviour Adjustment Training (BAT) techniques. Negative Punishment (P-) WE USE THIS (R6) (R7) The term negative punishment may sound unpleasant however, it refers to removing something pleasant in order to decrease the likelihood that a specific behaviour will reoccur. Example: When the dog barks at a person for attention, the person turns away and withholds attention until the dog is quiet, at which time the person turns to face the dog and gives it attention, decreases the likelihood that the barking will reoccur. Application: Removing something pleasant (attention) to decrease unwanted behaviour (barking). Negative punishment is a humane, non-confrontational method that focuses on teaching the dog impulse control, by controlling a desired resource. This is an example of resource control, which is a key concept of positive training. For more information about resource control see my article Dominance – The Dirty Word Of Dog Training and our book Blueprint To A Happy Dog. For more information about learning theory see my article Positive Dog Training – Science | Ethics | Results. IPDTA StandardsCoercive training approaches are associated with significant risks including fear, chronic stress and anxiety, confusion, frustration, emotional distress and physical harm. These methods can also contribute to learned helplessness, defensive or redirected aggression and shutdown behaviours. They can also result in long-term harm to the human-canine trust bond and negatively impact a dog’s overall emotional wellbeing and quality of life. IPDTA-certified dog trainers and members must adhere to strict professional standards that prohibit the use of aversive tools, including but not limited to choke chains, slip collars, pinch collars, shock equipment, spray products, shaker cans and high-frequency sound devices. These standards also prohibit the use of intimidation, coercion, domination, force, or physical punishment of any kind, including but not limited to throwing objects, leash corrections, hanging, poking, kicking or hitting. Members are required to use only scientifically supported, positive, humane, reward-based training methods that promote emotional wellbeing, clear communication and lasting behavioural change while protecting the dog’s physical and emotional wellbeing. Earning IPDTA CertificationThe International Positive Dog Training Association offers two options for IPDTA certification. Both options are available online and accessible worldwide. Option One The first option is through successful completion of the IPDTA comprehensive and practical testing examination, which includes 200 true/false and multiple-choice questions, as well as 15 practical training exercises to be submitted on video. A minimum average of 90% is required to earn a passing grade. Designation Example: Alexander Steele, IPDTA-CDT (IPDTA Certified Dog Trainer) For more information about the IPDTA Certification Examination & Fees visit www.IPDTA.org. Option Two The second option is through successful completion of the Canine Correspondence Studies (CCS) professional dog training, behaviour and aggression therapy certification career course for dog guardians who want to learn more about their dogs, aspiring dog trainers, and experienced dog trainers looking to improve their knowledge and skills. The CCS examination includes three written exams, with a total of 125 true/false and multiple-choice questions, as well as 13 practical training exercises to be submitted on video. A minimum average of 90% is required to earn a passing grade. Having earned CCS Certification, a CCS graduate who commit to using only 100% positive methods with both their canine and human clients is eligible to request a lifetime IPDTA Membership and Certification at no additional charge. Designation Example: Alexander Steele, CTB.ccs, IPDTA-CDT (Certified Dog Trainer/Behaviour Therapist of Canine Correspondence Studies & IPDTA Certified Dog Trainer) For more information about the CCS Certification Course and Fees click here. Earning IPDTA MembershipIPDTA is a professional membership association that offers IPDTA and CCS certification options. One of these two certifications, along with a demonstrated commitment to the use of positive methods only, is required to become an IPDTA member. These credentials are recognized as elite, internationally respected designations. False Claims To Membership & Members Using Unapproved MethodsIPDTA actively monitors and addresses any false claims of membership. It also responds promptly to inquiries regarding members who may be using tools or techniques deemed unacceptable by IPDTA. All such claims must be substantiated before action is taken. Through this oversight, IPDTA protects the integrity of the association, its members and those who hire dog trainers within our membership. TestimonialsIPDTA certified dog trainers, CCS students and graduates consistently praise Norma Jeanne, IPDTA and CCS for their transformative impact. “I was VERY happy to receive my score and certification diploma. I am very proud to be a member of IPDTA and being certified by an organization that I deeply respect is an honour. Thanks for being such a positive force in the dog training industry. You have shaped the futures of so many people and given a better life to so many dogs by your work. You are one of the people on this earth that truly make a difference. Thanks again!” Jan Morgan, IPDTA-CDT – Pawsitive Puppies For Many More Testimonials visit click here. References(R1) Skinner, B.F. (1938). The Behavior of Organisms. (R2) Pryor, K. (1999). Don’t Shoot the Dog.(R3) Skinner, B.F. (1953). Science and Human Behavior. (R4) Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) Position Statement on Humane Training Methods. (R5) Chance, P. (2013). Learning and Behavior. (R6) Lindsay, S. (2000). Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1.(R7) Skinner, B.F. (1953). Science and Human Behavior. Macmillan. (R8) Pryor, K. (2006). Don’t Shoot the Dog!: The New Art of Teaching and Training (Rev. ed.). Bantam Books. (R9) https://capdt.ca/ (R10) https://apdt.com/ (R11) https://iaabc.org/about/lima
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