Erin Jones PhD, MSc, CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT, CDBC, CANZ-ABC/ATI

Originally from Canada, I have spent much of my life working with a variety of nonhuman animal species. My specialisation in dog training and behaviour began while working at Companion Veterinary Clinic in Alberta, Canada, under the mentorship of Jessica Benoit. During my time there, I earned my Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) designation through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), teaching puppy classes and providing one-on-one training sessions. 

As my focus shifted to behaviour modification plans for dogs facing challenges such as fear, anxiety, and aggression, I achieved certification as a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). I am also an Accredited Dog Trainer (IAABC-ADT) and an Accredited Animal Behaviour Consultant with Companion Animals New Zealand.

In 2016, I moved to Nova Scotia, Canada, while completing my Master’s degree in Anthrozoology at Canisius College. During this time, I founded the Merit Dog Project (formerly Merit Professional Dog Training and Behaviour Consultation), a name that reflects my extensive work in dog-related research, seminars, mentorships, and writing. While in Nova Scotia, I also taught at Dalhousie University in the 3rd-year Animal Physiology Lab and served as a teaching assistant for the Advanced Animal Behaviour course.

In 2018, I relocated to New Zealand, where I completed my PhD at the University of Canterbury, working with the New Zealand Centre for Human-Animal Studies. My doctoral research focused on the human-dog relationship, humane training practices, and the ethical dimensions of canine consent. Today, I continue to work independently and collaboratively within the field of applied animal behaviour.

Alongside my academic and behaviour consultation work, I am heavily involved with the IAABC Foundation, where I create and support educational materials for members and certificants. As the Director of the IAABC Foundation Journal, I oversee its content and direction. Additionally, I teach flagship courses available online through the IAABC Foundation.

My writing experience includes weekly dog training and behaviour articles for K9 of Mine, "Ask a Behaviour Consultant" columns for Journey Dog Training, and contributions to other dog-related platforms such as PetMD. My latest publication, Constructing Canine Consent: Conceptualising and Adopting a Consent-Focused Relationship with Dogs (Taylor & Francis, CRC Press, 2024), represents the culmination of years of research and practical experience.

Today, my work is primarily centered on research, writing, and educating trainers and behaviour professionals through presentations, seminars, and courses. My mission remains to foster a deeper understanding of dogs and promote ethical, science-based approaches to their care and learning.

My Certifications, Accreditations & Degrees:

- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (IAABC)

- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT)

- Accredited Animal Behaviour Consultant (CANZ)

- Accredited Dog Trainer (IAABC)

- Accredited Animal Training Instructor (CANZ)

- BSc. in Psychology and Anthropology

- PgDip. in Animal Welfare

- MSc in Anthrozoology

- PhD in Animal Studies

TEACHING and BEHAVIOUR MODIFICATION PHILOSOPHY

It’s essential that dog training practices are grounded in the latest scientific research. I adhere to the ethical guidelines established by the IAABC and CCPDT, ensuring that I use the most ethical and effective techniques when working with nonhuman animals. My approach focuses on fostering a strong, trust-based relationship built on consent and clear communication. My goal is to help dogs thrive in our human-centric world with compassion and understanding. I do not use, nor will I ever recommend, tools like shock collars, choke chains, or prong collars for any dog.