A bill regulating virtually all dog trainers in New Jersey has been held by the sponsor after overwhelming opposition and concerns were raised.
New Jersey Senate Bill 3814 sought to establish the “Dog Training Licensing Board” to license and regulate dog trainers. In addition, the board would establish a training philosophy that must be used for every trainer in the state.
AKC recognizes that there are numerous effective approaches to training that produce desirable results such as obedience, Canine Good Citizen, performance and working/service dog designations. Government entities should not arbitrarily restrict accepted, appropriate, and effective dog training practices. S.3814 does not allow for flexibility in humane training options. It is also important to note that AKC supports current New Jersey law, which expressly states that training must be conducted in a manner “which does not adversely affect the health or safety of the dog.”
AKC Government Relations thanks all who took the time to attend today’s hearing, testify, and demonstrate your concerns with the bill. We also thank all who contacted the committee regarding this bill.
AKC GR will continue to closely monitor this bill and all legislation impacting dogs and dog owners in New Jersey. We encourage you to monitor the AKC Legislative Action Center at www.akcgr.org for the latest information or contact us at doglaw@akc.org with any questions.