Dog Trainer PRO Preparatory

This course prepares you for the Dog Trainer Professional (DTP) program. It covers the basics of modern dog training—providing comprehensive "nose-to-tail" instruction, from learning theory to practical application and basic problem-solving—focusing on the use of positive reinforcement for better communication. As you approach the conclusion of the course, you'll create a training video that can be used in in the DTP application process.

This course equips you with the skills to ensure you and your dog are set up for success in the Dog Trainer Professional (DTP) program and excited for the journey ahead.

Upon enrollment, you'll be paired with a Karen Pryor Academy (KPA) faculty member who teaches our DTP program and knows what you need to learn and demonstrate to be successful.

The five hours of instruction include one-on-one online coaching support through video conference, video review, and email. This coaching helps maximize your learning, keeps you on track, and allows you to experience the joy of KPA's teaching, training, and learning.

Begin to experience a new, remarkable system of lifelong communication with dogs, gain a deeper understanding of dog behavior and behavior change, understand the science behind marker-based (clicker) training, and acquire the foundational skills needed to apply it all effectively.

Learn at your own pace, through 7 lessons and 20 coordinated learning goals, with many videos and hands-on exercises―in as little as 6 weeks. Through a series of pre-set check-ins, your coach will be able to follow your training progress throughout the course, provide feedback on specific exercises, work with you through trouble spots, and offer you specific feedback from reviewing videos of your training.

See the visual Course Guide.

1. Teach simple and complex behaviors using the three core techniques: capturing, targeting, and shaping

2. Train reliable behavior with a marker and reinforcers, without the need for corrections or physical control

3. Select, add, and strengthen appropriate cues for any behavior

4. Replace undesired behaviors with behaviors you want

5. Distinguish between management and training, and how and when to use each

6. Interpret dogs’ emotional states through their body language

7. So much more!

See all 20 Learning Goals.