Do u you have to be certified to train a dog / animals

I have been doing some animal training( dogs , horses) for people. I am good at obedience training, analyze behavior, and good at recommend solutions to their owners.

Animal training isn't a standardized or regulated profession so anyone can decide to "train" an animal and people. Being certified by an accredited organization or school will give you credence and taking advanced courses will elevate your marketing potential and allow you to be the best that you can.

I strongly believe that being certified is the way to go to make this "craft" more of a profession. Following codes of ethics and continuing education is critical.

It's also a good idea to go thru competency tests and programs to get non-biased feeback on your actual abilities, skills, knowledge and approach. Just stating that you are good doesn't cut it. Being tested by others in a non-biased manner is the way to go as a professional.

How do you rate your abilities and skills? Your own judgement?

Training abilities and skills: Bob Baily's Chicken Training Camp a must - visit: www.legacycanine.com

Competency Assessment Program -CAPS: www.learningaboutdogs.com

Advanced dog courses: www.cynologycollege.com

The Harvard School for Dog Trainers: SF/SPCA Academy for Dog Trainers: www.sfpca.org

How do you collect data? What's functional analysis about?

I think it also shows your committment to the fied of behavior. It will also show your strengths and weaknesses. What other kinds of courses or education are you doing to make yourself a rounded behavior trainer?