News and Media Releases
Actively advocating against the use of Electronic Shock Collars.
August 2022
The APDTNZ is actively advocating for force/fear free training and educating dog owners, dog professionals, and industry stakeholders about the unnecessary and perilous use of aversive training methods. Here, the APDTNZ has sent a letter to Trade Tested in response to their advertising campaign of shock/e-collars.
Proposed Jeff Gellman Seminar in New Zealand
Jan 2020
The APDTNZ is unable to support or agree with the training methods used and taught by Jeff Gellman of Solid K9 Training. He is scheduled to travel to Auckland for a two-day workshop on July 4th and 5th , 2020 as a part of an international tour. His intention is to promote methods that include the use of electronic collars, prong collars, dominant (choke) collars and aversive punishment techniques, among other outdated and non evidence-based methodologies of animal training and behaviour.
Don't try these training methods at home
Aug 2019
The Association of Professional Dog Trainers New Zealand (APDTNZ) warns TV viewers against using dog training methods depicted in the TV series “Cesar to the Rescue” currently screening on Choice TV.
Trainer Endorsement Programme (TEP)
June 2017
The APDTNZ released a Trainer Endorsement Programme (TEP). The TEP recognises and endorses those APDTNZ members who, as dog trainers, have a level of knowledge, experience and academic qualifications, or accreditation that is of a high calibre and is in line with the Association’s Code of Ethics promoting dog friendly training techniques.
2016
It is the Association’s view that Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) is an oversimplification of the many factors that contribute to dog bite incidents and will in no way reduce the risk of future dog bites.
Dog Aggression in New Zealand dogs
July 2022
The APDTNZ were asked to speak on TVNZ Breakfast news regarding the tragic mauling of a person in New Zealand on. Cases of aggression in New Zealand dogs seems to be on the increase. This highlight the need for correct, early socialisation and positive reinforcement training of dogs in New Zealand.
Commenting on recent news.
Dec 2022
Grieving owners Harrison Pollock and Jess Inglis are now asking what could have been done to prevent their dog Maverick’s death.
The incident occurred during a manhunt on Monday afternoon that ended in the eastern suburb of Linwood, after two offenders abandoned a stolen car and fled on foot… Click for - Full Story
Excessive Barking with dogs in Napier
Jan 2024
The APDTNZ were asked to speak on TVNZ Breakfast about the recent order from Napier Dog Control to mandate the permanent wearing of Citronella collars on two dogs to prevent them from barking. Massive thanks to Augusta Grayson for commenting on live TV.
A Call to remove Laser Pointer Dog Toys off the Shelf
April 2024
The APDTNZ were able to respond to the growing use of Laser pointers as dog toys on TVNZ Breakfast. This was a great opportunity for the President, Darran Rowe, to highlight the risks of their use to our pet loving followers.