Dog Trainer Certification
Virtual Format with Linda Ryan
APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 2
Apply by 12/04/2026 for Early Application savings of $200
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 February 2
Course Start Date
23rd Feb 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: Tuesday, April 20, 2027 - Wednesday, April 21, 2027 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Workshop 2: Tuesday, June 15, 2027 - Wednesday, June 16, 2027 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Workshop 3: Tuesday, August 17, 2027 - Wednesday, August 18, 2027 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Workshop 4: Tuesday, October 5, 2027 - Wednesday, October 6, 2027 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Workshop 2: Tuesday, June 15, 2027 - Wednesday, June 16, 2027 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Workshop 3: Tuesday, August 17, 2027 - Wednesday, August 18, 2027 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Workshop 4: Tuesday, October 5, 2027 - Wednesday, October 6, 2027 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Virtual Check-Ins
Check-In 1: Tuesday, March 23, 2027 2:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Check-In 2: Tuesday, May 25, 2027 2:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Check-In 3: Tuesday, July 20, 2027 2:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Check-In 4: Tuesday, September 14, 2027 2:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Check-In 2: Tuesday, May 25, 2027 2:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Check-In 3: Tuesday, July 20, 2027 2:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Check-In 4: Tuesday, September 14, 2027 2:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Tuition
Dog Trainer Professional program: $6,600.
Faculty
Linda is a passionate Veterinary Nurse, Clinical Animal Behaviourist and R+ trainer.
Linda started out in general practice, and then spent many years working in specialist clinics at university and private referral hospitals, where she learned so much from amazing people and animals along the way. Linda’s passion for welfare-centered training and behavioural care has evolved over her life and career with animals, hence she became a graduate of Karen Pryor Academy, via the international program in 2012.
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.