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Program Structure

The Brain First™ Family of Programs

Brain First™ is more than a training method — it is a complete philosophy centered on one simple principle: Develop the brain, and behavior follows™.

Brain First Pro™ — a proprietary behavior development system

Brain First Pro™

Brain First Pro™ is the parent organization. It establishes the philosophy, professional standards, educational curriculum, ethics, continuing education requirements, and certification pathways used throughout every Brain First™ program.

Every Brain First™ professional, regardless of specialty, follows the same core developmental principles while applying them within their own area of expertise.

Explore the Brain First™ Family

One philosophy. Distinct branches. Shared standards.

Brain First Canine™

Brain First Canine™ applies the Brain First™ philosophy to dogs, including:

  • Brain development
  • Behavior development
  • Environmental design
  • Puppy development
  • Family education
  • Nutrition support
  • Learning science
  • Lifelong behavioral wellness

Breed-specific programs operate under Brain First Canine™ while maintaining the same professional standards. Examples include:

  • Brain First Olde English Bulldogge™
  • Brain First Shih Tzu™
  • Brain First Labrador Retriever™
  • Additional breed programs as they are developed

Brain First Feline™

Brain First Feline™ applies the same developmental philosophy specifically to cats.

Breed-specific feline programs will follow the same structure while recognizing the unique developmental and behavioral needs of each breed.

Brain First™ Professionals

Brain First™ recognizes that successful canine development requires many different types of professionals working together. As additional programs are introduced, Brain First™ professionals may include:

  • Brain First Behaviorist™
  • Brain First Trainer™
  • Brain First Breeder™
  • Brain First Nutrition Professional™
  • Brain First Puppy Development Specialist™
  • Brain First Family Coach™
  • Additional professional pathways as they are developed

Each professional completes education specific to their field while sharing the same Brain First™ philosophy and ethical standards.

How Brain First™ Works with Crown & Collar Institute™

Brain First™ evaluates and qualifies professionals.

Crown & Collar Institute™ independently recognizes dogs, breeding programs, and breeders that meet established health, temperament, development, and welfare standards.

For many advanced Crown & Collar recognition levels, applicants must demonstrate documented Brain First™ developmental oversight. That oversight may be provided by:

  • • A qualified Brain First Behaviorist™
  • • A qualified Brain First Trainer™
  • • A qualified Brain First Breeder™
  • • Another approved Brain First™ Professional whose qualifications match the developmental needs of the recognition being sought

If the applicant personally holds the appropriate Brain First™ qualification, no additional partnership is required.

Together, Brain First™ and Crown & Collar Institute™ create a comprehensive system that recognizes both the professionals who guide canine development and the dogs and breeding programs that demonstrate exceptional standards.