New Jersey S.3814 – The “Dog Training Licensing Act”
by
PPG News
Summary
Status: Active. A major hearing was held by the Senate Economic Growth Committee in February 2025, where it met intense debate.
What it does:
- Creates a Licensing Board: It establishes a “Dog Training Licensing Board” to oversee the profession.
- Mandates Methodologies: Crucially, the bill requires the board to establish a code of practice that specifically precludes “aversive training methods.”
- The Controversy: This would essentially make it illegal for a licensed professional in NJ to use tools like e-collars or prong collars, or to use any method deemed to cause “pain, injury, or distress.” “Balanced” trainers and the AKC are heavily opposing it, arguing it removes necessary tools for rehabilitating dangerous dogs.