Professional Certifications

Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge and Skills Assessed (CPDT-KSA) Active
Certificate Number #58327
Issuing Organization Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
Originally Certified 2005 (20 years)
Ethics Compliance CCPDT Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
Verification CCPDT Trainer Directory →

What is CPDT-KSA?

The CPDT-KSA is the most rigorous certification offered by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, the leading independent credentialing organization for dog training professionals in North America. Unlike the CPDT-KA (knowledge-only), the CPDT-KSA requires candidates to demonstrate practical training skills through a hands-on skills assessment in addition to passing a comprehensive written examination. Requirements include: 300+ hours of documented dog training experience, passing scores on both the written knowledge exam and practical skills assessment, adherence to the CCPDT Code of Ethics, and 36 continuing education units (CEUs) every three years to maintain certification.

Education

Master of Science in Human-Canine Life Sciences Conferred
Institution Bergin University of Canine Studies
Location Penngrove, California, USA
Accreditation Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS)
Program Focus Assistance Dog Training, Canine Behavior, Human-Canine Partnerships
Verification Bergin University →

About Bergin University

Bergin University of Canine Studies is the world’s only accredited institution dedicated to canine studies and assistance dog training. Founded by Dr. Bonita Bergin—who pioneered the concept of the service dog for mobility support in 1975—the university offers the most comprehensive academic programs in assistance dog education. The Master of Science program includes advanced coursework in canine cognition, behavior modification, assistance dog training methodology, and original research in human-canine partnerships.

Training Experience

20+
Years Professional Experience
150+
Service Dog Teams Trained
5,000+
Training Hours Documented

Areas of Specialization

Psychiatric Service Dogs Mobility Assistance Dogs Medical Alert Dogs PTSD Service Dogs Anxiety Response Dogs Deep Pressure Therapy Public Access Training Handler Education

Training Methodology

All service dogs trained through CADI receive individualized, direct trainer involvement throughout the training program. Our methodology is grounded in the science-based, positive reinforcement approach taught at Bergin University, combined with two decades of practical experience.

ATPDR-Compliant Training Programs

CADI’s training programs meet the requirements of the Accessible Transportation for Persons with Disabilities Regulations (ATPDR) for service dog training, including:

  • Individual training by a qualified professional specializing in service dog training
  • Task-specific training to assist with disability-related needs
  • Handler involvement throughout the training process
  • Documented assessment methods and results
  • Verifiable trainer credentials from recognized certifying bodies

Training in Action

Karen Robertson presenting a service dog graduation certificate

Service Dog Graduation

Celebrating a successful team completion

Karen Robertson working with a client and their service dog

Handler Training Session

One-on-one handler education and practice