Trainer Academy
In Person Course
Trainer Academy
Would you like to start a career as a dog trainer or pick up skills to have a side hustle? Do you love dogs but don’t know where to start? Woofs of Wisdom’s “Trainer Academy” is that place! Our program educates students in all aspects of dog training from puppy to adult and provides a certificate upon completion. How are we different from other trainer schools? Not every method will work with every owner or dog and we feel the same about trainers. We do not subscribe to one single training methodology but feel it is important to teach prospective trainers many and to let them formulate their own combination or work with the one that suits them best. Students are never tied into one method.
Most people complete the program in 8-10 months and there is a time limit of 2 years. Structure of the in person program includes:
You will receive full support through the program and you are always welcome to observe or assist with more classes and private sessions than required. Enrollment in additional classes as a participant "may" have additional fees depending on the class.
Cost: $5200 Payment plans available!
*No refunds once program is started. 90% refund if withdraw before program begins. If you have previously taken our puppy and basic obedience level 1 class within the year before beginning the Trainer Academy, credit will be applied to trainer course payment bringing total cost down. Please contact us so we can determine credit.
Study Modules:
1. Methodologies and Training Theories: in person
Explore theories such as Operant Conditioning, Clicker Training, Classical Conditioning and 5 other training
methods, how to apply them to different commands and behaviors.
2. Obedience and Commands: in person
What each command means, how they can be used and how to teach people using the different methods.
3. Behavior Modification and Common Behavior Issues: in person
Learn how different factors can affect behavior, how to address the situation with the client and create a client
training plan.
4. Body Language, Vocalizations and Emotions: in person
Become knowledgeable in dog communications and how they link to emotions and behavior.
5. Toubleshooting Behavior and Commands: in person
Not just for the owner and dog but for the trainer as well! Learn how to proof commands and behaviors as well as
methods within the training process.
6. Development Stages and Breed Influences: in person or virtual
An often overlooked facet of training, this module explains the main development stages and their effect on
training. Also includes potential breed influences within the training process.
7. Dog/Dog and Human/Dog Interaction: in person
This puts Modules 4 and 6 together to offer a greater picture of how genetics and environment can effect on
training to decode interactions with human and other dogs.
8. Training Aids: in person
While we don't always use or want to use everything in our tool kit, knowing the pros and cons and how each
work can go a long way to being a knowledgeable trainer.
9. How to Run a Class and Teach People: in person or virtual
Of course you can work with dogs, but what about people? Learn how to create your own operation plan for
classes and private sessions, communication, and how to deal with different issues that may arise.
10. Professionalism, Liabilities and Assistance/Therapy/ESA Information: in person or virtual
The business side of business! Learn how to make yourself stand out and about business/trainer responsibilities.
Also includes a section on laws and training surrounding different types of "helper" dogs.
11. Types of Classes and Sessions: in person or virtual
Your services and classes you offer can set you apart from other trainers. Learn about different types of classes
you can offer to dog owners and how they are structured.
12. Types of Aggression: in person or virtual
While this doesn't dive into how to work with these dogs, as no two will ever be the same, it does explain different
types of aggression and key points as to the why and how they can occur.
Quote from student now trainer!
Woofs of Wisdom's Trainer Academy is a hidden gem that I am thrilled to have discovered. After researching numerous training programs, this one outshined them all with the vast amount of hands-on experience and one-on-one learning with the instructor. The immersive and comprehensive curriculum allowed me to discover and develop my personal training style and interests. I am deeply grateful to Woofs of Wisdom for empowering me with the skills and confidence to launch my own dog training business and make a meaningful impact in the lives of dogs and their owners. L.R.
Most people complete the program in 8-10 months and there is a time limit of 2 years. Structure of the in person program includes:
- Participate in 3 rounds of both Puppy Class and Basic Obedience. The first round will be as a participant in the class (we can arrange for a dog to be handled if needed). The second and third rounds will be as an assistant. Please check website for current class schedule. (36 hours total)
- Complete 12 study modules which include written, visual and hands on education. Each module includes 2 hours of one on one time with WOW owner and certified trainer Nicole McBride, 24 (hours) total. Very flexible scheduling with the sessions and some can be virtual. Please see module subject below; purchase of books and videos may be required.
- Participate and assist in ten private sessions with clients with multiple WOW trainers. (10 hours total)
- Volunteer with a local rescue or shelter 4 hours per month handling or working with dogs. We can help you find volunteer opportunities if needed. (24 hours total)
- Opportunity to work for Woofs of Wisdom if a position is available.
You will receive full support through the program and you are always welcome to observe or assist with more classes and private sessions than required. Enrollment in additional classes as a participant "may" have additional fees depending on the class.
Cost: $5200 Payment plans available!
*No refunds once program is started. 90% refund if withdraw before program begins. If you have previously taken our puppy and basic obedience level 1 class within the year before beginning the Trainer Academy, credit will be applied to trainer course payment bringing total cost down. Please contact us so we can determine credit.
Study Modules:
1. Methodologies and Training Theories: in person
Explore theories such as Operant Conditioning, Clicker Training, Classical Conditioning and 5 other training
methods, how to apply them to different commands and behaviors.
2. Obedience and Commands: in person
What each command means, how they can be used and how to teach people using the different methods.
3. Behavior Modification and Common Behavior Issues: in person
Learn how different factors can affect behavior, how to address the situation with the client and create a client
training plan.
4. Body Language, Vocalizations and Emotions: in person
Become knowledgeable in dog communications and how they link to emotions and behavior.
5. Toubleshooting Behavior and Commands: in person
Not just for the owner and dog but for the trainer as well! Learn how to proof commands and behaviors as well as
methods within the training process.
6. Development Stages and Breed Influences: in person or virtual
An often overlooked facet of training, this module explains the main development stages and their effect on
training. Also includes potential breed influences within the training process.
7. Dog/Dog and Human/Dog Interaction: in person
This puts Modules 4 and 6 together to offer a greater picture of how genetics and environment can effect on
training to decode interactions with human and other dogs.
8. Training Aids: in person
While we don't always use or want to use everything in our tool kit, knowing the pros and cons and how each
work can go a long way to being a knowledgeable trainer.
9. How to Run a Class and Teach People: in person or virtual
Of course you can work with dogs, but what about people? Learn how to create your own operation plan for
classes and private sessions, communication, and how to deal with different issues that may arise.
10. Professionalism, Liabilities and Assistance/Therapy/ESA Information: in person or virtual
The business side of business! Learn how to make yourself stand out and about business/trainer responsibilities.
Also includes a section on laws and training surrounding different types of "helper" dogs.
11. Types of Classes and Sessions: in person or virtual
Your services and classes you offer can set you apart from other trainers. Learn about different types of classes
you can offer to dog owners and how they are structured.
12. Types of Aggression: in person or virtual
While this doesn't dive into how to work with these dogs, as no two will ever be the same, it does explain different
types of aggression and key points as to the why and how they can occur.
Quote from student now trainer!
Woofs of Wisdom's Trainer Academy is a hidden gem that I am thrilled to have discovered. After researching numerous training programs, this one outshined them all with the vast amount of hands-on experience and one-on-one learning with the instructor. The immersive and comprehensive curriculum allowed me to discover and develop my personal training style and interests. I am deeply grateful to Woofs of Wisdom for empowering me with the skills and confidence to launch my own dog training business and make a meaningful impact in the lives of dogs and their owners. L.R.
