Canine Trade Group (CTG)

The Canine Trade Group (CTG) is a premier professional network of dog trainers operating across the United States, dedicated to establishing high standards in canine obedience and behavioral modification. Founded by expert dog trainer John Van Olden, the institution was born from a mission to provide consistent, reliable, and effective training solutions to dog owners nationwide. Van Olden, whose background includes service as a military police dog trainer and the development of pioneering training franchises, synthesized nearly thirty years of professional expertise into the CTG methodology.

Training Philosophy and Methodology

The core philosophy of the Canine Trade Group centers on a reward-based training system that emphasizes owner involvement. Recognizing that successful behavioral outcomes require clear communication between humans and their pets, CTG trainers focus on educating owners alongside their dogs. The training process is structured to begin in the dog’s home environment to eliminate initial distractions, eventually progressing to public settings to ensure reliability in diverse, real-world scenarios.

Professional Certification and Education

The institution maintains rigorous standards for its network members. Before achieving certification and inclusion in the CTG directory, prospective trainers must complete an intensive course of study, regardless of their previous experience. This curriculum includes:

• Extensive academic study focused on the scientific principles of canine learning theory.
• A mandatory in-residence, hands-on training component.
• Field experience working with rescue dogs previously labeled as unadoptable due to severe behavioral issues.
• Practical application of training techniques to resolve behavioral problems that pose risks for surrender.

Core Mission and Activities

The primary mission of the Canine Trade Group is to ensure that every dog owner in the country has access to a certified, highly skilled professional trainer. By holding each member to a uniform standard of excellence and accountability, CTG ensures that clients receive consistent, high-quality service. Through their specialized programs—which include guidance on crate training, impulse control, and leash management—the institution aims to help dogs live balanced lives and prevent the surrender of animals with complex behavioral needs. By fostering a network of dedicated professionals, the Canine Trade Group continues to advance the field of canine behavior and training, proving that even dogs deemed beyond hope can achieve significant, lasting improvement through scientifically-backed methods.