Discover How You Can Become A Professional Dog Trainer*
Discover How You Can Become A Professional Dog Trainer*
WATCH THE VIDEO
*This programme includes the iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training, regulated by Ofqual
New and existing dog trainers can all benefit from this course
This programme provides the tools to start a dog training business, to add dog training to an existing dog business and to give existing dog trainers a recognised qualification.
JOIN THE NEXT TRAINING
SUMMER 2025 - SOLD OUT - SPRING 2026 - SOLD OUT -
NEXT INTAKE - OCTOBER 2026
JOIN THE NEXT TRAINING
SUMMER 2025 - SOLD OUT - SPRING 2026 - SOLD OUT - NEXT INTAKE - OCTOBER 2026
✓ Includes the iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training, regulated by Ofqual
✓ Online and live Zoom teaching with engaging assignments and assessments
✓ Keep access to the learning library for life
✓ Study at your own pace - 18 months to complete the course.
Featured in
Because we are only taking one more intake of around 20-30 students this year (starting October 31st), and we want every student to succeed, we have a friendly 40-minute chat before you enrol - no pressure, no test, just a conversation.
ARE YOU?
Passionate about dogs, their happiness and relationships? Keen to help their people support them in the best way possible? Excited to start a profitable dog training business, but not sure where to start?
Already a dog trainer with a wonderful dog training business, and want to stand out from the competition with a REAL qualification while learning more methods to help dogs and their owners from an ethical training provider?
Did you answer YES to these questions?
CONGRATULATIONS!
"You sound like the perfect candidate to apply. We've spent years helping people just like you turn their love of dogs into a career they're proud of - and we'd love to do the same for you."
Imagine waking up on a Monday morning and genuinely looking forward to your day. You're heading out to work with dogs - not as a hobby, not as a side hustle, but as your actual career. A career you're qualified for. A career people respect.
Imagine a client calling you because their vet referred them to you. Because you're the trainer with the real credentials. Imagine standing in front of a group of dog owners, confidently sharing knowledge that transforms how they see their dogs - and watching the penny drop in real time.
THERE ARE SO MANY DOG TRAINING COURSES OUT THERE, HOW DO I KNOW THAT THIS IS THE RIGHT DOG TRAINING COURSE FOR ME?
You'll find some dog training programmes claiming their courses are 'equivalent to' a Level 3 or 4 qualification. But equivalents don't exist when it comes to regulated qualifications - you either have the actual qualification or you don't. The Xtra Dog Instructor Programme includes the iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training, regulated by Ofqual. That means your qualification is real, recognised, and valued by vets, employers, and clients.
THE QUALIFICATION IS REAL
iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training, regulated by Ofqual. Recognised and valued by vets, shelters, and industry professionals. Your qualification is current, regulated, and professionally credible.
OUR INSTRUCTORS WORK WITH DOGS
Gail Skinner runs one of the busiest training centres in the Algarve. Dr Monika Kleyenstuber is a veterinary surgeon. Dr Erica Cosijn is an authority on noise-sensitive dogs. Alex Wilson is a senior Tellington TTouch practitioner - Real hands-on dog pros, not just teachers.
WE PRACTICE WHAT WE TEACH
Everything we teach is force-free, positive-reinforcement (R+) based. Our students learn science-based methods that work ethically and effectively. We're not selling shortcuts. We're building skilled trainers.
SMALL INTAKES - REAL SUPPORT
Around 20-30 students per cohort. You get actual attention, not a number in a database. Live Zoom sessions with instructors who know your name. You're not alone in this.
THE MATERIALS STAY WITH YOU
Lifetime access to the learning library and additional resources. A library you can reference forever. Even after you graduate.
READ OUR CODE OF CONDUCT
We have a code of conduct. Every instructor we work with practices force-free training. Our philosophy matters. If you want to learn ethically, this is for you. CLICK HERE to read it.
TUITION FEES 2026
We understand that we are living in tough economic times and we do not believe in charging more if people need a payment plan. It is important that nobody taking this programme should stress about meeting their fees so every payment plan is tailored to the individual student. Ask at your interview if you require a payment plan. We can accept payment in UK£, Euros, US, Australian, New Zealand or Canadian Dollars and some other currencies.
£2,300
€2,700
$3,100
Receive all of the following
12 modules of learning
The 4 Units of the iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training
Opportunity to receive Licensed Xtra Dog Instructor status and be listed on our website
The learning materials library is yours for life
Weekly coaching call for 6 months
Facebook support group
CONGRATULATIONS! You sound like the perfect candidate to apply!
Photo ©Noah Mitchell
The Xtra Dog Instructor Programme is inspiring and supportive, with real-life training that goes beyond expectations. Alex and his team are always there to help, consistently going above and beyond to make sure you feel capable of achieving anything. When the Programme was announced, I was excited to extend my learning with Xtra Dog, but I was nervous if I could do it. Alex gave me the confidence I needed, just as he and his team have done with every Xtra Dog course I've taken - My confidence has grown so much. As someone with 8 dogs, I love teaching them new skills. The knowledge this course provides is mind-blowing, and I'm loving every moment of learning. Even my family is involved, my children get excited when I'm watching the training videos, and they love joining in. Alex and his team have designed courses that help all ages learn about dog training.
Thank you, Xtra Dog, for not just being a course provider, but for being a true support system and a source of inspiration.
Liza Mitchell, Dog Trainer and Breeder
The Xtra Dog Instructor Programme is inspiring and supportive, with real-life training that goes beyond expectations. Alex and his team are always there to help, consistently going above and beyond to make sure you feel capable of achieving anything. When the Programme was announced, I was excited to extend my learning with Xtra Dog, but I was nervous if I could do it. Alex gave me the confidence I needed, just as he and his team have done with every Xtra Dog course I've taken - My confidence has grown so much. As someone with 8 dogs, I love teaching them new skills. The knowledge this course provides is mind-blowing, and I'm loving every moment of learning. Even my family is involved, my children get excited when I'm watching the training videos, and they love joining in. Alex and his team have designed courses that help all ages learn about dog training.
Thank you, Xtra Dog, for not just being a course provider, but for being a true support system and a source of inspiration.
Liza Mitchell, Dog Trainer and Breeder
CHECK OUT 4 LESSONS FROM THE PROGRAMME
We have over 130 pre-recorded videos and over 50 recorded Facebook Lives with world renowned instructors - some videos are a few minutes some are full lectures spanning over an hour.
Learn about Potty Training - Alex Wilson
The Three Taps - Gail Skinner
Anatomy - Linda Reader
Teaching the Sit - Nicky Lucka
Guided Learning
41 Hours
Qualification Time
160 hours
Number of Units
4
MODULE 1 Getting Started and Professional Identity
The module also begins to explore what it truly means to step into the role of a dog trainer.
Students will look at professional responsibility, accountability, confidence, safety, wellbeing, equipment, and how to begin shaping their own identity as a kind, ethical, and reflective trainer.
MODULE 2 How Dogs Work
This module introduces the core learning theory that sits underneath everything students will do as dog trainers. Students will explore how dogs learn, how behaviour is built or changed, and why understanding concepts such as classical conditioning, operant conditioning, reinforcement, punishment, flooding, and counter conditioning is essential for ethical and effective training.
MODULE 3 Canine Communication
This module helps students learn how to better understand the dogs in front of them by recognising body language, communication signals, and emotional states. Students will explore how dogs communicate with people, with other dogs, and through subtle changes in posture, movement, facial expression, and behaviour.
MODULE 4 Canine Biology, Health and Welfare
This module helps students understand dogs as whole beings, not just learners of behaviour.
Students will explore natural canine behaviour, breed purpose, exercise needs, pain, medication, neutering, vaccinations, nutrition, prey drive, and the impact health and welfare can have on training and
MODULE 5 Anatomy
This module helps students build a clearer understanding of how dogs are physically put together, including key anatomical points, body condition, touch, reproductive cycles, and signs of good and poor health. Students will learn what to look for when observing a dog's body, movement, comfort levels, and general.
MODULE 6 Puppy Development and Early Learning
This module focuses on puppies as developing individuals with their own specific needs, learning stages, and support requirements. Students will explore physical development, early learning, toilet training, crate training considerations, puppy nutrition, harness introductions, first walks, and how to help puppies build confidence without rushing the process.
iPET Network Unit UNIT 374:
Introduction to Canine Ethology. iPet Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training Assignments
iPET Network UNIT 375
Canine Health and Handling Theory iPet Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training
iPET Network UNIT 376
Dog Training and Socialisation Theory iPet Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training Assignments
iPET Network UNIT 377
Dog Training and Handling Skills
iPet Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training Assignments
MODULE 7 Emotion, Fear and Behaviour Challenges
This module helps students understand the emotional foundations behind many behaviour challenges, including fear, anxiety, phobias, reactivity, noise sensitivity, bite triggers, and undesirable behaviours. Students will explore how health, sensory experiences, environment, past experiences, and emotional load can all influence how a dog behaves.
MODULE 8 Practical Skills
This module helps students start applying their knowledge in a more practical, thoughtful way.
Students will explore key training concepts such as calmness, focus, enrichment, impulse control, life skills, freework, play, loose lead walking, and games-based training, while thinking about how these skills can support real dogs in real-life situations.
MODULE 9 Games Library
This module is a practical reference library filled with training games, exercises, and activity ideas that students can return to whenever they need inspiration or guidance. It is not designed to be worked through in a strict order, but instead used as a searchable toolkit for building skills, confi-dence, and creativity.
MODULE 10 Business, Legal and Professional Set-Up
This module supports students in turning their dog training skills into a professional, sustainable, and compliant career. Students will explore the practical foundations of running a business, including accounting, business structures, insurance, GDPR, health and safety, risk assessments, first aid, CPD, supervision, mentoring, and safe travel.
MODULE 11 Working with The Human End of The Lead
This module focuses on the people side of dog training, because trainers are not only teaching dogs, they are coaching humans too. Students will explore learning styles, communication, use of language, client expectations, supporting clients, managing complaints, and how to deliver information in a way that helps people feel understood rather than overwhelmed..
MODULE 12 Finalising Your Assessment
The module also supports students with studying, editing, organising their work, and getting themselves ready for final assessment. This is the "pulling it all together" stage, helping students show their knowledge, practical skills, and professional approach in a clear and structured way.
BONUSES
• Learn About Marketing a Dog Business
• Elements of Tellington TTouch®
• Supporting Noise Sensitive Dogs with Dr Erica Cosijn, mini course
• Access to the complete Facebook Live Library, over 50 videos
• Puppy Deep Dive
• Anatomy Mini Course
How Do I Apply?
Places on each intake are strictly limited - we keep intakes to around 20-30 students so everyone gets the support they deserve, and we can make sure that every student receives the best learning experience.
There is only one more intake this year, in October
How Do I Apply?
Places on each intake are strictly limited - we keep intakes to around 20-30 students so everyone gets the support they deserve, and we can make sure that every student receives the best learning experience.
There is only one more intake this year, in October
We know that this programme will not be the right fit for everyone, and we want to make sure that it is right for you, so please complete the application form and one of our team will be in touch and invite you to an interview with one of our trainers who can discuss the programme with you. Because we want every student to succeed, we take time to make sure it's the right fit on both sides - and if it's not, we'll always point you in the right direction.
Xtra Dog, their staff and trainers operate under a "without fear or force" code of conduct, Please click here to read our code of conduct.
And here's the thing - the timing to make this move has never been better.
Join this thriving industry!
And here's the thing - the timing to make this move has never been better.
Join this thriving industry!
Did you know that there are 13.5 million dogs in this country and 89.7 million dogs in the USA and the number of pets owned in the UK between 2022 and 2023 grew by 9%.
Over the past 12 months, the dog training industry has seen significant growth, primarily driven by increased pet ownership during the pandemic, a growing awareness of the importance of positive reinforcement training methods, and a rising demand for specialised training for behavioural issues like anxiety and aggression, with more people seeking professional help for their dogs beyond basic obedience commands.
If you are a dog lover and have an affinity for animals, it may well be the time for you to step into this role as a qualified trainer - an incredibly rewarding new career is just a click away!
If you are already running a business as a dog trainer, you may be eager to further your training and being qualified by an Ofqual regulated programme ensures you are choosing a training that your customers will respect at the same time as massively uplevelling your scope of training experience.
Our students receive the highest standards in dog training:
It's not just about theory and written work!
With this professional dog training qualification, you'll get hands-on experience with practical tasks, real-world case studies, and interactive coaching calls as well as business and marketing know-how. By the time you complete the programme, you'll have everything you need to succeed as a professional dog trainer.
This qualification isn't just for established dog trainers, it's also a great springboard to launch a new career as a dog trainer!
The course covers:
Basic Obedience Training
Life Skills for dogs and puppies
Canine Ethology and Behaviour
Health, Anatomy and Welfare
Over 100 "how to" instructional videos from short training videos to long lectures
Plug and Play Lesson Plan
Business and Marketing Training
Live mentoring sessions
Life-time access to course materials
Real-life Case Studies
Business and Marketing Elements to help you FLY!
Elements of Tellington TTouch®
You will be provided with a reading list and need to complete engaging assignments for review by your instructors to achieve your qualification.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHO IS THIS COURSE AIMED AT?
This course is suitable for people who are passionate about dogs and looking for a career working with dogs. Existing dog trainers who are looking for an accredited qualification as it includes the iPET Network level 3 Certificate in Dog Training, regulated by Ofqual. The course also appeals to other dog professionals like groomers, dog walkers, etc., who are looking to add dog training to their practise. Although many professionals take this course, no experience is necessary to attend the programme.
WHAT DOES THE COURSE COST OR IS IT FREE
The tuition fees are £2,300, €2,700 or US$3,100 if you would like to pay in other currencies please ask at your interview.
ARE THERE PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE
Absolutely, many of our student choose this option, and we do not charge interest or any fees to set up a payment plan. If you would like a payment plan please discuss at your interview and we will try and arrange a plan to fit in with your finances.
IS THIS PROGRAMME ACCREDITED
The programme includes the iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training, regulated by Ofqual. This is a recognised Level 3 qualification in the UK.
HOW LONG DO I KEEP ACCESS TO THE MATERIAL
You keep access to the learning materials library for life as many of the resources will be useful to be able to dip back into during your dog career.
DO I GET A CERTIFICATE?
Yes you receive an emailed and a printed certificate upon completion
UPON COMPLETION WILL I GET LISTED ON YOUR WEBSITE?
Once you have completed the course and have also been certified by the iPET Network, you will have the opportunity to become a licensed Xtra Dog Instructor. You will need to agree to our code of conduct and sign a license agreement. Once completed, we will list you on our website www.xtradog.training.
HOW LONG DOES THE COURSE TAKE TO COMPLETE?
Whilst we feel that 12 months is good length of time to take onboard the learning and complete the assignments, we give you 18 months to complete the programme
CAN I COMPLETE THIS ALONG SIDE A FAMILY LIFE OR A FULL TIME JOB?
Absolutely, most of our students are not doing this course full time and they have jobs, family life etc. This programme is designed to be completed alongside normal life.
IS THIS COURSE ALL ONLINE?
Yes, however it does not just involve watching videos, you receive live coaching calls on Zoom (that are recorded if you can't attend live), also you have knowledge review quizzes, written and video assignments to complete, and a final assessment that is done live on camera with an assessor.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHO IS THIS COURSE AIMED AT?
This course is suitable for people who are passionate about dogs and looking for a career working with dogs. Existing dog trainers who are looking for an accredited qualification as it includes the iPET Network level 3 Certificate in Dog Training, regulated by Ofqual. The course also appeals to other dog professionals like, groomers, dog walkers etc who are looking to add dog training to their practise. Although many professionals take this course, no experience is necessary to attend the programme.
WHAT DOES THE COURSE COST OR IS IT FREE
The tuition fees are £2,300, €2,700 or US$3,100 if you would like to pay in other currencies please ask at your interview.
ARE THERE PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE
Absolutely, many of our student choose this option, and we do not charge interest or any fees to set up a payment plan. If you would like a payment plan please discuss at your interview and we will try and arrange a plan to fit in with your finances.
IS THIS PROGRAMME ACCREDITED
The programme includes the iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training, regulated by Ofqual. This is a recognised Level 3 qualification in the UK.
HOW LONG DO I KEEP ACCESS TO THE MATERIAL
You keep access to the materials for life as many of the resourses will be useful to be able to dip back into during your dog career.
DO I GET A CERTIFICATE?
Yes you receive an emailed and a printed certificate upon completion
UPON COMPLETION WILL I GET LISTED ON YOUR WEBSITE?
Once you are certified by the iPET Network, you will have the opportunity to become a licensed Xtra Dog Instructor, you will need to agree to our code of conduct and sign a license agreement. Once completed we will list you on our website www.xtradog.training.
HOW LONG DOES THE COURSE TAKE TO COMPLETE?
Whilst we feel that 12 months is good length of time to take onboard the learning and complete the assignments, we give you 18 months to complete the programme
CAN I COMPLETE THIS ALONG SIDE A FAMILY LIFE OR A FULL TIME JOB?
Absolutely, most of our students are not doing this course full time and they have jobs, family life etc. This programme is designed to be completed alongside normal life.
IS THIS COURSE ALL ONLINE?
Yes, however it does not just involve watching videos, you receive live coaching calls on Zoom (that are recorded if you can attend live), also you have knowledge review quizzes, written and video assignments to complete, and a final assessment that is done live on camera with an assessor.
Your Lead Instructors
You will be guided through the course by a team of incredible instructors including: Gail Skinner who runs one of the busiest training centres in the Algarve, Nicky Lucka a very successful puppy trainer in South Africa, Dr Monika Kleyenstuber veterinary surgeon, Linda Reader a cooperative grooming instructor and canine anatomy expert, Dr Erica Cosijn, expert in noise sensitive dogs amongst others. *
* Lead Instructors can change without notice
ALEX WILSON
Alex built the Xtra Dog Academy because he believes the industry deserves better — qualified, ethical, passionate trainers who genuinely understand dogs. He's personally invested in every student who comes through this programme.
Alex is Course Director at Xtra Dog® and a Senior Tellington TTouch® Practitioner. He passed the Advanced Instructor Programme with the association of Pet Dog trainers (UK), and he is also a canine body language instructor and passionate about helping reactive dogs
Gail Skinner
Gail runs one of the busiest training centres on the Algarve, she is a trainer, behaviourist, groomer and Instructor. Gail is passionate about life-skills for dogs and will be sharing the strategies she uses in her multiple classes she runs each week. She has also prepared lesson plans that you can incorporate into your dog classes.
Dr. Erica Cosijn
Dr. Erica is recognised as one of the leading authorities on noise-sensitive
dogs. She has authored the book; Nasty Noises: From Cowering to
Calm and teaches internationally, supporting noise-sensitive dogs.
Erica will guide you through a greater understanding of noise sensitivity
in dogs
Dr. Erica is recognised as one of the leading authorities on noise-sensitive dogs. She has authored the book; Nasty Noises: From Cowering to Calm and teaches internationally, supporting noise-sensitive dogs.
Erica will guide you through a greater understanding of noise sensitivity in dogs
Nicky Lucka
Nicky is a successful trainer in South Africa focussing on working with puppies.
She has also a Tellington TTouch Practitioner (P3) and trained in behaviour with COAPE. Nicky will guide you throughdog skills that you will want to share with your clients, students, and
in classes
Nicky Lucka
Nicky is a successful trainer in South Africa focusing on working with puppies.
She has also a Tellington TTouch Practitioner (P3) and trained in behaviour with COAPE. Nicky will guide you through dog skills that you will want to share with your clients, students, and in classes
ALEX WILSON
Alex is Course Director at Xtra Dog® and a Senior Tellington TTouch®
Practitioner. He is also a Canine Body Language instructor and passionate about helping reactive dogs
Linda Reader, Instructor and Assessor
Elevate Your Dog Training Skills
Comprehensive Curriculum: Dive into an advanced training program that covers everything from behaviour modification to specialised techniques.
Community Support: Join a network of fellow trainers for collaboration and ongoing support.
Hands-On Practice: Gain real-world experience through
mentor sessions with experienced trainers to guide and coach you.
Expert Instructors: Learn from top professionals in the field who provide both insights and mentorship.
Exclusive Resources: Access a library of training videos and materials to support continuous learning.
Certification: Earn a recognised qualification that enhances your credibility and career prospects
Master
Techniques
Equip yourself with the skills needed to handle many training scenarios confidently.
Boost Your
Career
Stand out in the competitive field of dog training with a prestigious certification.
Immediate Application
Apply what you learn directly to your training practice, seeing tangible results.
Connect with Experts
Benefit from the guidance and support of seasoned professionals and a community of peers.
We understand there's a lot to take in, so here it is in a nutshell
Starting on the 31st October, the Xtra Dog Instructor Programme which includes the iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Training, regulated by Ofqual is your gateway to mastering advanced training techniques.
With expert guidance, hands-on practice, and a supportive community, you'll gain the skills and certification needed to elevate your career.
Head Office
Kings Offices
2 Millers Lane
Costock
LE12 6XJ - UK
Grooming School
The Dog Shop
9 Sea Road, East Preston
Littlehampton, England BN16 1JN
Telephone
+44 (0) 330 088 3647
From America Toll Free
+1 877 648 3647
WhatsApp +44 (0) 7380 137470
Offices Hours (UK time 10am - 4:30 pm)
(USA 8am - 4:30pm Eastern Time)
Xtra Dog Academy Operates in the UK, Portugal and South Africa
and is a trading name of Salamander C Ltd - VAT number GB400075260 - Company number 13030773
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