A 4207 New Jersey General Assembly · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Creates New Jersey Dog Trainer Licensure Board.

This bill establishes the New Jersey Dog Trainer Licensure Board within the Division of Consumer Affairs to regulate professionals who train dogs for compensation. It requires dog trainers and behavior consultants to obtain a license by completing an approved certification program that prohibits aversive training methods (such as fear- or pain-inducing techniques) and mandates 36 hours of continuing education every three years. The board, composed of nine members including licensed trainers, a veterinarian, and consumer representatives, will oversee licensing and enforce standards. Exemptions cover military K-9 training, law enforcement work, and kennel club services provided exclusively to members.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 19, 2026 Last action Feb 19, 2026
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Full legislative history

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Total actions
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Committee
0
Feb 19, 2026
Introduced
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Regulated Professions Committee
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Carol Murphy
Carol Murphy
DDemocratic
NJ
7