Professional Online Dog Training Certificate

Introduction to Your Dog Training Program

Theory  (Days 1 - 10)

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 Dog Training

Theory  (Days 1 - 10)

Why do we train dogs the way we do? This course touches on popular dog training methods and poses some interesting questions. Dog training principles are a common topic of debate and this course helps you come to your own decisions about how to choose a training methodology that works for your client’s dog.

Dog Training Equipment

Theory  (Days 1 - 10)

Let’s investigate the many pieces of training equipment that are available. Learn how to properly fit the most common and popular pieces of dog training equipment and some pros and cons of each.

Evolution of the Dog

Theory  (Days 1 - 10)

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.

Dog Breeds

Theory  (Days 1 - 10)

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 (Days 1 - 10)

What questions and facts should you consider when choosing a dog?

Today's Canine

Theory (Days 11 - 20)

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 develop a dog’s training plan? 

The Physical Dog

Theory (Days 11 - 20)

This course studies a dog’s general health, brain and senses, life cycle, and common ailments. It is surprising how much information is packed into this course!

Canine Language

Theory (Days 11 - 20)

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

Dog Training Philosophies

Theory (Days 11 - 20)

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 dog trainers must have. 

Learning Theory

Theory (Days 21 - 30)

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 your training plans. This course explores the science behind how dogs learn.

Dog Behavior Problem Solving

Theory (Days 21 - 30)

During this course, we show you how to tackle common problem behaviours and offer a problem solving flow chart of solutions for each.

Fear and Anxiety

Theory (Opens Day 31)

During this course we look into the definitions and relationships between fear and anxiety. How does Fear and Anxiety affect your training plans?

Aggression

Theory  (Opens Day 31)

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

Euthanasia

Theory (Opens Day 31)

If you work in the dog industry, 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 (Opens Day 31)

As a well-rounded dog professional, you need general knowledge about nutrition and dietary options.

Bylaws

Theory (Opens Day 31)

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 (Opens Day 31)

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 out into your first group class!

Final Written Exam

Theory (Opens Day 31)

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 (Begin after Canine First Aid)

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

Basic Dog Obedience Skills

Lesson 2

Practical (Open after Lesson 1)

Sit Stay | Loose Leash Walking | Release Cues

Basic Dog Obedience Skills

Lesson 3

Practical (Open after Lesson 2)

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 (Complete after Lesson 3)

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 (Open after Video #1 Submission)

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

Basic Dog Obedience Skills

Lesson 5

Practical (Open after Lesson 4)

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

Basic Dog Obedience Skills

Lesson 6

Practical (Open after Lesson 5)

Sit and Down Transitions from Six Feet | Proofing Your Skills

Video #2 Submission

Basic Obedience Skills Lessons 4-6

Practical (Complete after Lesson 6)

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

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 1

Practical (Open after Video #2 Submission)

Heeling with No Hands | Heeling Patterns

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 2

Practical (Open after Lesson 1)

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

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 3

Practical (Open after Lesson 2)

Proofing Your Stays | Come To Heel

Video #3 Submission

Intermediate Obedience Skills Lessons 1-3

Practical (Complete after Lesson 3)

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

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 4

Practical (Open after Video #3 Submission)

Down, Sit Transitions | Recalls From A Distance

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 5

Practical (Open after Lesson 4)

Stationary Position Game | Advanced High Arousal Low Arousal Game

Intermediate Obedience Skills

Lesson 6

Practical (Open after Lesson 5)

Down in Motion | Off Leash Heeling and Proofing

Video #4 Submission

Intermediate Obedience Skills Lessons 4-6

Practical (Complete after Lesson 6)

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.