Dog Trainer Certification
Virtual Format with Terrie Hayward
APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 6
Each Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional series is your pathway to becoming a KPA Certified Training Partner (CTP), one of the most respected certifications in professional dog training.
The Dog Trainer Professional program is designed for motivated students who are familiar with and have hands-on experience in clicker training or other marker-based, positive reinforcement methods — whether you've been training your own dog, are already working as a trainer and are ready to earn your certification, or come from a veterinary, shelter, or animal care background. The course includes personalized instruction and coaching from some of the best teachers in the field.
The 6-month Virtual Format blends online learning with hands-on instruction. The program includes four online Units, each followed by a two-day virtual workshop. After finishing each online Unit, you will attend the corresponding virtual workshop.
Series Details
Application Deadline
Apply anytime before January 6
Course Start Date
27th Jan 2027
Format
Virtual
- Learn online, practice live: complete one online unit before each virtual workshop
- No travel required: attend four two-day virtual workshops, plus check-in meetings
- Train with your dog at home and during every virtual workshop
- Submit training videos as you work through the curriculum (required)
Virtual Workshop
Workshop 1: Wednesday, March 24, 2027 - Thursday, March 25, 2027 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Workshop 2: Wednesday, May 12, 2027 - Thursday, May 13, 2027 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Workshop 3: Wednesday, June 30, 2027 - Thursday, July 1, 2027 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Workshop 4: Wednesday, August 18, 2027 - Thursday, August 19, 2027 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Workshop 2: Wednesday, May 12, 2027 - Thursday, May 13, 2027 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Workshop 3: Wednesday, June 30, 2027 - Thursday, July 1, 2027 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Workshop 4: Wednesday, August 18, 2027 - Thursday, August 19, 2027 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Virtual Check-Ins
Check-In 1: Thursday, January 28, 2027 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Check-In 2: Friday, March 26, 2027 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Check-In 3: Friday, May 14, 2027 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Check-In 4: Friday, July 2, 2027 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Check-In 2: Friday, March 26, 2027 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Check-In 3: Friday, May 14, 2027 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Check-In 4: Friday, July 2, 2027 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Tuition
Dog Trainer Professional program: $6,600.
Faculty
Terrie Hayward, M.Ed., CSAT, CPDT-KA, ACDBC, KPA-CTP has has written several behavior and training articles for Bark's Magazine, Grooming Business, Deaf Dogs Rock, and KPA. She is also the author of the pocket guide to working with deaf dogs titled, "A Deaf Dog Joins the Family, Training, Education, and Communication for a Smooth Transition," "Your Ten Minute a Day Dog" with daily exercises for limited time, and co-author of "Grooming Without Stress" which focuses on positive husbandry and handling.
Ready to Get Started?
Questions? Review our FAQ or reach out to us at [email protected]. We’re happy to help!
Learn More About Becoming a Certified Dog Trainer
Subscribe to get access to our webinar Pathways and Roadblocks to a Successful Training Career with Ken Ramirez, and learn more about earning an industry-recognized certification and a rewarding career in dog training through our Dog Trainer Professional program.