Professional Online Dog Training Certificate

Introduction to Your Dog Training Program

Theory

Welcome to GDA and our online pet dog training certificate program! Explore some housekeeping topics and program expectations. Learn how Critical Thinking and Focused Observation will help you to become a better professional dog trainer.

Principles of Training

Theory

Why do we train dogs the way we do? This course touches on the popular dog training methods used by professional pet dog trainers and poses some interesting questions. Dog training principles are a common topic of debate and this course will help you to answer questions from your clients. It will also help you to come to your own decisions about how to choose a training methodology that fits for you and your clients’ dogs. 

Dog Training Equipment

Theory

Learn how to properly fit the most common and popular pieces of dog training equipment, pros and cons of each and how to help your clients select the most appropriate equipment for their dog. 

Evolution of the Dog

Theory

This course examines the origins of the domestic dog and why there is so much diversification in this species. This will help you to determine the traits that are going to be most prominent in a variety of dog breeds, a necessary skill that will help you throughout your career. 

Dog Breeds

Theory

As a Professional Pet Dog Trainer, breed trait knowledge is extremely valuable and will assist you in providing the best care for your clients and their dogs.This course helps you become familiar with many popular, and some of the less popular, dog breeds and their traits as recognized by popular kennel clubs.

Selecting a Dog

Theory

What questions and facts should you consider when choosing a dog or helping your clients to choose a dog?

Today's Canine

Theory

The start a dog gets in life, including his genetic make up, plays a big role in the outcome of the adult dog. How will knowing this information help you to develop great training plans for your clients? 

The Physical Dog

Theory

This course studies a dog’s general health, brain and senses, life cycle, and common ailments - all important information that will help you in your career. It is surprising how much information is packed into this course!

Canine Language

Theory

How do dogs communicate? Understanding what canines are saying is crucial to your safety and the safety of your clients.

Dog Training Philosophies

Theory

It is important to be educated about the various opinions and philosophies that exist in dog training. Your clients will ask you many questions. Your answers will help you to gain your clients' trust. A vital skill set all professional pet dog trainers must have. 

Learning Theory

Theory

An absolute must for any Professional Pet Dog Trainer! Training is both a craft and a science. Dog trainers must understand the science behind the way dogs learn as this will have a direct impact on how training plans are designed. This course explores the science behind how dogs learn.

Behaviour Problem Solving

Theory

During this course, we show you how to tackle common problem behaviours that clients will inquire about. We will offer a problem solving flow chart of solutions for each.

Fear and Anxiety

Theory

During this course we look into the definitions and relationships between fear and anxiety. How does fear and anxiety affect your training plans? How can you assist clients with dogs who display fearful and anxious behaviours?

Aggression

Theory

This course analyzes aggression and possible scenarios you will encounter when working with dogs throughout your career.

Euthanasia

Theory

Working as a Professional Pet Dog Trainer, this sensitive topic will come up in your career. This course offers basic facts about euthanasia and discusses ways to support your clients during this difficult decision making process.

Nutrition

Theory

As a well-rounded dog professional, you need general knowledge about nutrition and dietary options. Nutrition will impact how a dog behaves and learns.

Bylaws

Theory

As a professional in the pet dog industry, what information do you need from your municipality in order to comply with its bylaws? What questions should you ask when you are considering opening a business at home or in a dedicated location?

Instruction

Theory

Remember that dogs always come with a human! Learn valuable tips that will prepare you to work with and instruct clients. Speaking skills, registration forms, demonstration dogs and more are must haves before you step into your first class!

Final Written Exam

Theory

Show us what you’ve learned! Get ready to take your Canine First Aid next and then on to Practical.

Canine First Aid

Theory (Complete After Final Exam)

As a professional, it is crucial that you know what to do in an emergency. Dogsafe® Canine First Aid is designed to teach you the knowledge and skills you need to deal with a sick or injured dog until veterinary care is available. The topics are covered in-depth so you have a thorough understanding of the principles of canine first aid. Once you successfully complete this course and its test, you will receive a Dogsafe® Canine First Aid Certificate.

Basic Dog Obedience Skills

Lesson 1

Practical

Cues and Markers | Focus on Cue | Touch Targeting | Team Work Game - relationship building

Basic Dog Obedience Skills

Lesson 2

Practical

Sit Stay | Loose Leash Walking | Release Cues

Basic Dog Obedience Skills

Lesson 3

Practical

Move to Heel on Cue | The ‘Bank of Plenty’ Game | ‘Back Up’ to Leash Pressure | Sit and Down in Heel Position

Video #1 Submission

Basic Obedience Skills Lessons 1-3

Practical

Used to evaluate your dog handling skills. Reviewed by our Director of Training. Extensive feedback and coaching given.

Basic Dog Obedience Skills

Lesson 4

Practical

Down Stay | Treat Toss - Recall Foundation Game | Formal Heel in Motion

Basic Dog Obedience Skills

Lesson 5

Practical

180° Turns | One Minute Sit and Down Stays with Distraction | Formal Recall Techniques | Collar Desensitization

Basic Dog Obedience Skills

Lesson 6

Practical

Sit and Down Transitions from Six Feet | Proofing Your Skills

Video #2 Submission

Basic Obedience Skills Lessons 4-6

Practical

Used to evaluate your dog handling skills. Reviewed by our Director of Training. Extensive feedback and coaching given.

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 1

Practical

Heeling with No Hands | Heeling Patterns

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 2

Practical

Stand On Cue and Stand Stay | High Arousal Low Arousal Game

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 3

Practical

Proofing Your Stays | Come To Heel

Video #3 Submission

Intermediate Obedience Skills Lessons 1-3

Practical 

Used to evaluate your dog handling skills. Reviewed by our Director of Training. Extensive feedback and coaching given.

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 4

Practical

Down, Sit Transitions | Recalls From A Distance

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 5

Practical

Stationary Position Game | Advanced High Arousal Low Arousal Game

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 6

Practical

Down in Motion | Off Leash Heeling and Proofing

Video #4 Submission

Intermediate Obedience Skills Lessons 4-6

Practical

Used to evaluate your dog handling skills. Reviewed by our Director of Training. Extensive feedback and coaching given to get the most out of your dog training certification BC, Canada, and the U.S.