Dog Trainer Certification
Washington, DC with Laurie Luck
APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 28
Apply by 12/30/2026 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 Regional Format blends online learning with hands-on instruction. The program includes four online Units, each followed by a two-day in-person workshop. After finishing each online Unit, you will attend the corresponding workshop.
Series Details
Application Deadline
Apply anytime before February 28
Course Start Date
21st Mar 2027
Format
Regional
- Learn online, practice in person: complete one online unit before each workshop
- Travel to the same location four times for two-day, hands-on workshops
- Train with your dog at home and bring them to every workshop
On-Site Workshop Dates
Workshop 1: Sunday, May 16 – Monday, May 17, 2027
Workshop 2: Sunday, June 27 – Monday, June 28, 2027
Workshop 3: Sunday, August 8 – Monday, August 9, 2027
Workshop 4: Sunday, September 19 – Monday, September 20, 2027
Tuition
Dog Trainer Professional program: $5,600.
Find out more about financing options, including our five-installment no-interest loan.
Learn about our scholarship program for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Apply by 12/30/2026 for Early Application savings of $200
Faculty
I love running, dogs, and micro brews — not necessarily in that order. I have raised puppies for a service dog organization since 2001. When our own dogs (service dog dropouts) became older and made it clear they wanted to retire as puppy raisers, we took a few years off to enjoy our seniors and let them live a whippersnapper-free life.
Training Facility
Animal Behavior Wellness Center
11230 Waples Mill Rd Ste 125A
Fairfax, VA 20124 United States
View Venue Website
11230 Waples Mill Rd Ste 125A
Fairfax, VA 20124 United States
View Venue Website
Lodging
https://www.bringfido.com/lodging/city/fairfax_va_us/
Veterinarians Nearby
- Fairfax Veterinary Hospital
- 10396 Willard Way, Fairfax, VA 22030
- VCA Commonwealth Animal Hospital
- 10860 Main Street, Fairfax, VA 22030
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.