Become a Certified Professional Dog Trainer
Online Through Flexible Learning in the Comfort
of Your Own Home
The Academy of Pet Careers delivers a rigorous, mentor-led online certification program that combines the depth of a professional trade education with the flexibility of remote learning.
Learn How to Become a Professional Dog Trainer With Our Online Program
Fill out the form to receive a free program guide and our team will reach out to see if we are a good fit for your career goals.
Online Dog Training Quick Links
Online Dog Training Quick Links
Professional-Grade Education, Delivered on Your Terms
The Academy of Pet Careers' Online Dog Trainer Certification Program was designed with a singular purpose: to produce skilled, confident, career-ready professionals regardless of where they live. Built on the same academic rigor as our in-person dog training curriculum, this program delivers an immersive learning experience through a structured, mentor-supported format that fits around your life.
Self-paced but structured to keep you progressing toward your goals on a timeline that works for you.
Dedicated dog training instructor to guide you from day one through graduation.
Access to exclusive resources and our alumni network supports you long after you've graduated.
Reward-based, science-backed training methods that reflect the current standard of the profession.
Active assistance with job placement, career preparation, and business startup.
I highly recommend studying professional training at the Academy of Pet Careers! It is a lot
of hands-on which is very helpful. The teachers and staff are so amazing and you can
almost pretty much make your own schedule. You can go to school and still have a job and
the staff is very understanding about your goals.”
Katarina Ziegler
How APC's Dog Training School Prepares
You to Become a Dog Trainer Online
Once enrolled, you need only a computer or mobile device, reliable internet access,and a dog with which to practice. The program is fully flexible and self-paced, yet supported by ongoing guidance to ensure you progress efficiently and complete your training within 12 months or less.
Training Toolkit
Upon enrollment, APC equips you with a complete Professional Training Toolkit so you can begin developing real-world skills from your very first session. Shipped directly to your home, your Training Toolkit consists of the following items:
-
Clicker
-
Treat Pouch
-
Biothane Leash
-
30 ft. Long Line
-
Slip Lead
-
Dumbbell
-
Squeak and Tug Toys
-
Harness and Leash
-
Portable Water Bowl
-
APC Swag
-
Portable Phone Stand
-
And much more!
Expert Instructors & Competency Assessments
Our instructors are experts in the industry, and your dedicated instructor will be your personal guide throughout the entire program. They are accessible via direct message or private video call whenever you need clarity, feedback, or support.
Progress through the curriculum is milestone-driven: you'll complete knowledge assessments and skills evaluations (live or recorded) that ensure you're meeting professional standards before advancing. This isn't passive learning, it's accountable, structured professional development.
5-Day Live Workshop
For students who want to deepen their understanding of dog training, APC offers a five-day, in-person workshop at our headquarters in St. Charles, MO. While this workshop is optional, it is a wonderful opportunity for hands-on experience alongside our instructors and other future dog trainers like yourself.
Whether you've encountered a training challenge mid-program or simply want to sharpen your skills, this workshop provides personalized, real-time instruction in active training classes. Choose the competency areas you want to strengthen before stepping into your new career. Your workshop experience is tailored to you!
Student Community & Ongoing Support
Your learning experience extends beyond your individual coursework. The APC online program is built on a collaborative community platform where students engage through discussion forums, shared content, and peer interaction. You're not just earning a credential, you're joining a professional community of like-minded dog trainers.
100% Money Back Guarantee
Our money back guarantee is also known as our “drop window”. It is a 30 calendar-day period at the beginning of the program that allows students to be sure that they have picked out the right program for them.
We stand behind the value of all the programs we offer. That's why every new student is protected by APC's 14-day satisfaction guarantee — a full tuition refund window (excluding equipment costs and deposit) at the start of each program, with no questions asked. If for any reason the program isn't the right fit, your investment is protected. Enroll with complete confidence.
What Our Certified Graduates Say
About Their Training at The Academy of Pet Careers
It is great to get hands on experience learning how to teach the dogs in a positive way. It is nice with both teachers dividing their attention answering any questions we have and getting help for highly experienced professionals. I recommend this school to everyone who is interested in learning how to train dogs.
Ellie Buntenbach
I graduated from Training, Grooming, and PEP.
I use the skills I learned at APC every single day.
The training portion of the school is well worth the money. The instructors (Rob & Susanne) are the best kind of people. They are patient and kind and make sure you truly understand how to train, the process of how they learn, different techniques, etc. The grooming portion is good too. I have my own successful business now, and part of that is because of APC. If you are considering a career in this field this is a good place to see if training or grooming is your passion. I sure found mine! Also, administrative people are great! Very helpful and made everything as easy as possible. I made a lot of friends here, and it has opened a lot of doors for me, and my business
Medlin Pet Company.
Taylor Rose Medlin
During my time at The Acadmey of Pet Careers,
I had the opportunity to work hands on with dogs and learn how to communicate with pet parents. Working hands on with different breeds, ages and behavior types allows you to learn how to train all dogs and gain invaluable experience. I would highly recommend this school to anyone interested in dog training, dog behavior or working with animals.
Toni Alaimo
Pet Companies That Hire Our Students
Wages and Employment Outlook for Dog Trainers
In recent years, dog trainers have seen increasing demand for their services. This career path provides
several perks, such as flexible hours, options for specialization and, if desired, the ability to be your own boss.
1,000+
Active dog trainer job postings
(Indeed)
$45,780
Average dog trainer salary
(US Bureau of Labor Stats)
11%
Projected job growth by 2034
(US Bureau of Labor Stats)
Dog Training Curriculum That Builds the Expertise,
Credentials, and Competence to Launch a Lasting Career
Why the Online Program Is the Right Investment for Many Students
Get the Education, Practical Skills and Hands-On
Experience to Become a Dog Trainer Online
Tuition
Regular Price
$5,900
*Taxes and fees may apply.
Pay Up-Front
$4,720 20% off
*Taxes and fees may apply.
Loan Options
$400 Down
*Payments as low as $260/month.