Workshop Dog Requirements


The Dog Trainer Professional program requires that students have access to and can work with dogs suitable for the chosen format. Please be aware of the specific requirements for in-person workshops and virtual workshops. These requirements will also be discussed with you during the application process.

In-Person workshop

For in-person workshops, you will need a partner dog that can work with you both at home and during the workshops. All Partner dogs must be approved by KPA before enrollment. The requirements for your KPA Partner dog in the workshop setting are as follows:

Dog should be willing to consume treats or food throughout the day for training and should not be on a restricted diet.

Dog should be healthy and able to work several times each day.

Dogs with disabilities are welcome in the course but must be able to participate in all course activities.

Dogs should be able to relax calmly and quietly in a crate, both when the student is nearby and when the student is out of sight for short periods (e.g., during an exercise not involving dogs).

Dog should be able to relax on a mat beside the student.

Dog should be able to acclimate to a workshop environment, remaining calm and minimally stressed both in and out of the crate, enjoying treats, and engaging in fun learning activities.

The dog should feel safe and comfortable with new people, as other students will be handling the dog.

Dog should be safe/comfortable with other dogs as they will be working in close proximity to other dogs.

The workshop requirements for your dog do not apply to the World format as this program provides a dog for the workshop.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT A WORKSHOP

VIRTUAL Workshop 

In the virtual format, you will need a KPA Partner dog along with access to other dogs for a limited time, as follows:

KPA Partner Dog (All Partner dogs will be approved by KPA prior to enrollment)

This is the dog that will be your partner for most of the course.

Dog should be willing to consume treats or food throughout the day for training and should not be on a restricted diet.

Dog should be healthy and able to work several times each day.

Dogs with disabilities are welcome in the course but must be able to participate in all course activities.

Dog should be able to relax when not training during the virtual workshop.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT A WORKSHOP