What to Expect in Our Professional Dog Trainer Certification Programme

Level 1: Building a Strong Foundation in Dog Training Theory

At the core of every great dog trainer lies a deep understanding of dog behaviour and how there are many influences on the way a dog behaves. In Level 1 of our programme, you’ll look into the theory behind how dogs learn and interact with the world around them. Take a look at evolution and domestication and how this may or may not influence the dog of today. You’ll start to understand the principles of positive reward-based training AND the downside to this being used incorrectly.

Understanding the theory is critical to your success as a dog trainer because it lays the groundwork for effective communication not just between you and the dogs you’ll work with, but also your effective communication with the owners. We emphasise evidence-based approaches, meaning the techniques we teach are backed by many years of our own research and study. You’ll learn the basics of classical and operant conditioning, which will help you influence and shape a dog’s behaviour in a positive way.

This foundation will give you the tools you need to understand not only what works when training a dog, but why it works. It’s an approach that ensures our trainers develop a well-rounded understanding of how to handle dogs of all temperaments, breeds and backgrounds.

Level 2: Developing Practical Skills with Real Dog

Once you’ve built your theoretical foundation, it’s time to learn our practical training methods, many of them unique to The National Dog Training Academy. You will, at level 2, put that knowledge into action. In Level 2, you’ll move from classroom-based learning to hands-on training with real dogs, your own, friend’s dogs or dogs you know. This will give you the opportunity to practice the practical skills that will be progressed in Level 3.

Level 3: Intensive In-Person Training for Real-World Confidence

As you progress through the course, the real-world application of your skills becomes increasingly important. We feel this is where many other programmes fail you. Our programme offers an intensive, in-person training that focuses on building your confidence in real-world dog training scenarios. You’ll have the opportunity to lead training sessions in a controlled environment, but with real-life challenges.

We know that every dog is different, every person is different, so this part of the programme is designed to expose you to a variety of dog breeds, temperaments, and a variety of human learning styles. This diversity prepares you for the wide range of clients you’ll encounter in your future career. Our instructors provide one-on-one guidance, helping you refine your skills and tailor your approach to suit the individual needs of each dog and handler.

We limit the size of our training groups to ensure that every student gets focused, personal attention. This allows for a relaxed environment where you feel comfortable to ask questions, and receive immediate feedback from our team of professional trainers.

This hands-on, practical training is crucial for developing the confidence you’ll need when working with your own clients. Whether it’s managing a group class, or working 1 on 1.

Lifetime Support: Ongoing Guidance Throughout Your Career

One of the things that sets our programme apart from others is the ongoing support we offer to all of our certified trainers. We believe that education doesn’t stop when the course ends, and we’re committed to helping you grow throughout your career.

Once you’ve completed our certification programme, you’ll have access to lifetime support, from me and my team. You have continuing education opportunities, and get your Level 4, progressing your understanding of behaviour training to a bronze level, free of charge.

With a small learning group, we also find that groups get to know each other well and set up their own support network.

This continuous support ensures that you’re never alone as you embark on your journey as a dog trainer. Whether you need help with a difficult case or advice on expanding your business, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Preparing for Your Future as a Professional Dog Trainer

Our programme isn’t just about teaching you how to train dogs; it’s about preparing you for a successful career in the dog training industry. In addition to mastering training techniques, you’ll also learn how to teach humans and how to run a dog training business. From marketing your services to managing client relationships, we’ll guide you through the process of setting up and growing your business.

As a student you get free access to anything I have written. This includes Ebooks and articles. You can use them verbatim if you choose, or simply pop them into ChatGPT and get a rewrite that you can name as yours. I’m here to help you succeed.

In addition to business management skills, we’ll help you understand the ethical responsibilities that come with being a professional dog trainer. This includes maintaining the welfare of the dogs you work with, as well as fostering positive relationships with clients. You’ll be well-equipped to handle not only the dogs but also the people who own them, a critical aspect of the job that is often overlooked in training programmes.

Conclusion

Our Professional Dog Trainer Certification Programme is designed to give you everything you need to succeed in the dog training industry. From a solid foundation in theory to hands-on experience with real dogs and people, followed by ongoing support and business guidance. Our programme ensures you’re prepared for the challenges and rewards of a career as a dog trainer.

By the end of the course, you won’t just have a certificate—you’ll have the confidence, skills, and support to thrive in your new career.

Ready to turn your passion for dogs into a fulfilling profession?

Sign up today and start your journey toward becoming a certified professional dog trainer.