Dog Trainer Certification
Virtual Format with Terrie Hayward
APPLICATION DEADLINE: November 10
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 November 10
Course Start Date
1st Dec 2026
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, January 26, 2027 - Wednesday, January 27, 2027 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Workshop 2: Tuesday, March 30, 2027 - Wednesday, March 31, 2027 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Workshop 3: Tuesday, May 18, 2027 - Wednesday, May 19, 2027 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Workshop 4: Tuesday, July 6, 2027 - Wednesday, July 7, 2027 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Workshop 2: Tuesday, March 30, 2027 - Wednesday, March 31, 2027 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Workshop 3: Tuesday, May 18, 2027 - Wednesday, May 19, 2027 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Workshop 4: Tuesday, July 6, 2027 - Wednesday, July 7, 2027 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Virtual Check-Ins
Check-In 1: Thursday, December 3, 2026 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Check-In 2: Tuesday, March 9, 2027 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Check-In 3: Tuesday, April 27, 2027 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Check-In 4: Tuesday, June 15, 2027 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Check-In 2: Tuesday, March 9, 2027 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Check-In 3: Tuesday, April 27, 2027 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Check-In 4: Tuesday, June 15, 2027 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Tuition
Dog Trainer Professional program: $6,600.
Find out more about financing options, including our five-installment no-interest loan.
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.