The Kennel Club has announced today, 19 March, that it is reviewing its dog training model, looking specifically at dog training clubs, dog training instructors and its research and insights about what dog owners want and need. The review aims to ensure that the organisation provides a strong offering for dog owners requiring training and behavioural advice, as well as that those behaviourists and clubs registered maintain high standards of quality.
The dog training and behaviour industry is currently self-regulating, however The Kennel Club has been in discussions with Defra, and other UK administrations, regarding the need to regulate dog training to help safeguard and maintain high standards which meet the needs of those that need the provision.
As part of this review, as of 25 March, there will be a freeze of new applications to become a member of The Kennel Club Accredited Instructors scheme. It is critical that The Kennel Club ensures that it future-proofs its local dog training network and develops a clear scheme for both instructors and dog owners alike.
Helen Kerfoot, Chief Operations Officer (Canine Activities), said: “We are very grateful for all the wonderful support our accredited instructor scheme has received since its inception and want to make sure that we find the best way forward for clubs and dog trainers. We will be conducting a survey to gather views from our members as with the ever changing world we live in, we want to create a unified dog training provision, with a consistent structure and format that is valued and respected, and which supports our dog training network.”
“While we work out what this looks like we feel it is only fair to freeze new applications for membership. This will not affect our current membership who we will continue to support and promote. We value our scheme members and want to reassure those working towards accreditation that their commitment to dog training is important to The Kennel Club.”
“We will continue to update our membership with developments as soon as we have them and thank them for their continued support of the scheme.”
Further information about The Kennel Club Accredited Instructors scheme can be found on our website.