Dog Trade Associations

Dog trade associations are created to regulate the standards of services provided to dogs and to the humans who own or work with them. Through testing, certification and workshops, these associations help their membership ensure the finest in dog breeds, dog care and the training of dogs for companionship and contributions to mankind.

  1. Dog Breeding

    • The American Kennel Club promotes the breeding, care and sport of purebred dogs. It advocates the purebred dog as the ideal family companion and is committed to the well-being of all dogs and the rights of dog owners. The AKC National Championship, in which all of its registered breeds compete, is televised each year.

      An advocate of the rights of dog owners and breeders, the American Dog Breeders Association began in 1909 as a registry for American pit bull terriers, but now is open to all purebred breeders. The ADBA actively combats anti-canine and anti-breeding legislation.

    Dog Grooming

    • The National Dog Groomers Association of America began its continuing education workshops and certification testing in 1988. Groomers can become certified for particular breeds and groups of breeds. The NDGAA has approximately 2,500 certified members and offers a major medical program to them. Individuals can locate a certified groomer in their area by using the NDGAA website.

      Individual states sometimes have their own dog grooming associations. For example, the Iowa State Professional Dog Groomers Association aims to promote professional dog grooming and help its members become successful in their business. Its stated purpose is to educate and to ensure the humane and proper handling of pets.

    Dog Obedience and Training

    • The oldest group of its kind in the world, the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors began in 1965 to promote humane training methods and establish standards for the profession. Members must demonstrate proficiency as determined by their peers. The NADOI provides continuing education in training methods and adheres to a strict code of behavior.

      The Association of Pet Dog Trainers strives to create better trainers through its educational conferences and webinars. Professional trainers must possess one or more certifications from a list provided on the APDT website. Its members also include veterinarians, authors and humane society personnel.

    Service Dogs

    • The American Rescue Dog Association provides specially trained dogs for volunteer search and rescue units. The ARDA works with law enforcement and emergency services to locate missing persons in wilderness areas and crime or disaster situations.

      The Psychiatric Service Dog Society educates the public about Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSD) and advocates for the rights of PSD handlers. It connects mentally disabled individuals with professional dog trainers in their area.

      Assistance Dogs International is a coalition of nonprofit organizations that train and place assistance dogs for the visually and hearing impaired as well as those with other disabilities. They educate the public about assistance dogs and the legal rights of people with disabilities partnered with assistance dogs.