Dog Trainer Certification
Virtual Format with Laurie Luck
APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 10
Apply by 12/12/2026 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 10
Course Start Date
3rd Mar 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: Wednesday, April 28, 2027 - Thursday, April 29, 2027 11:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Workshop 2: Wednesday, June 9, 2027 - Thursday, June 10, 2027 11:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Workshop 3: Wednesday, July 21, 2027 - Thursday, July 22, 2027 11:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Workshop 4: Wednesday, September 1, 2027 - Thursday, September 2, 2027 11:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Workshop 2: Wednesday, June 9, 2027 - Thursday, June 10, 2027 11:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Workshop 3: Wednesday, July 21, 2027 - Thursday, July 22, 2027 11:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Workshop 4: Wednesday, September 1, 2027 - Thursday, September 2, 2027 11:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Virtual Check-Ins
Check-In 1: Wednesday, April 7, 2027 11:30 AM - 12:30 AM
Check-In 2: Wednesday, May 19, 2027 11:30 AM - 12:30 AM
Check-In 3: Thursday, July 1, 2027 11:30 AM - 12:30 AM
Check-In 4: Wednesday, August 11, 2027 11:30 AM - 12:30 AM
Check-In 2: Wednesday, May 19, 2027 11:30 AM - 12:30 AM
Check-In 3: Thursday, July 1, 2027 11:30 AM - 12:30 AM
Check-In 4: Wednesday, August 11, 2027 11:30 AM - 12:30 AM
Tuition
Dog Trainer Professional program: $6,600.
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.
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.