Canine Principles has been officially named as a Continuing Education Unit (CEU) Host by the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC).

The recognition means that three courses delivered by Canine Principles can now award IAABC-approved CEUs, a vital requirement for accredited behaviour consultants who must complete 36 CEUs every three years to maintain their professional credentials.

CEUs, or Continuing Education Units for IAABC credential holders are the mechanism that ensures practitioners remain up to date with the latest science, ethical standards and best practice in animal behaviour.

Courses must be formally assessed, meet strict eligibility criteria and align with the IAABC’s Code of Ethics, with unapproved or low-quality training excluded from the system.

The courses are, Canine First Aid,  CPD Accredited Diploma Canine Behaviour Professional and CPD Accredited Diploma Canine Coaching with more expected to follow.

Canine Principles delivers professional education for dog trainers and behaviour practitioners, with a strong focus on welfare-led, ethical and evidence-based approaches. Becoming an IAABC CEU Host confirms that its courses meet the high bar required for international professional development.

Jo Middleton of Canine Principles welcomed the announcement, calling it an important milestone for both the organisation and the wider industry, much of which is unregulated.

She said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be recognised as an IAABC CEU Host.  

“Continuing education is not about ticking boxes, it’s about protecting dogs, owners and professionals by making sure learning is rigorous, current and ethical.

"Training with a regulated provider matters, because it gives learners confidence that what they are being taught genuinely meets recognised international standards.”

Under IAABC rules, CEUs can only be earned through approved education that goes beyond introductory level, is grounded in science and is delivered by suitably qualified educators.

Credits cannot be carried over between renewal periods, reinforcing the need for ongoing, high-quality professional development rather than one-off qualifications.