Dog Lovers
Turn your passion into professional knowledge.
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Professional Dog Trainer Certification
Mentored by working trainersReal feedback on every step, from day one
Become a Certified Dog Trainer
Flexible online certification with hands-on learning. Train dogs, change lives, and build a rewarding career on your own schedule.
Mentored by working trainersReal feedback on every step, from day one
Better Dogs, Brighter Futures
What's included
Everything you need to get certified
18 self-paced lessonsLearn online, on your schedule
1-on-1 mentorshipFeedback from working trainers
Hands-on practiceReal work with real dogs
Accredited certificateEarned on completion
$399One-time priceEverything included Start anytime
- Self-Paced100% online
- 18 LessonsComplete curriculum
- Practice with DogsHands-on learning
- CertificateUpon completion
- 1-on-1 MentorshipFrom working trainers
Join a Growing Community
of passionate dog lovers
Learn from Real-World Experts
with years of experience
Earn a Respected Certification
and advance your career
Build a Career Doing What You Love
helping dogs and people
Make a Difference in Dogs' Lives
and in your community
About the ISCDT Dog Trainer Program
More Than Just Training — It's a Career Path
ISCDT's online dog trainer certification provides a comprehensive, modern, and practical education in dog training, behavior, and business. Whether you're starting a new career or expanding your skills, our self-paced online program gives you the tools, support, and certification to succeed.
About the Program- Science-based, positive training methods
- Practical, real-world application
- Designed for all experience levels
- Video homework with mentor feedback
- Support from experienced trainers
- Recognized certification upon completion
Who This Program Is For
Is This Program Right for You?
Our program is designed for anyone who wants to work with dogs and make a positive difference.
Career Changers
Start a meaningful new career in a growing industry.
Current Trainers
Build on your skills and gain a respected certification.
Pet Parents
Gain a deeper understanding of your own dog.
Animal Advocates
Make a bigger impact in your community and beyond.
Business Owners
Learn the business side of dog training to grow your services.
Your Path Through the Program
From First Lesson to Certified Trainer
The 18 lessons build on each other in four stages, each with hands-on homework along the way.
1
Lessons 1–5Understanding Dogs
Learning theory, marker training, breeds and body language.
- 1How Dogs Learn
- 2Charging the Mark
- 3Breeds
- 4How Dogs Communicate
- 5Calming Signals
2
Lessons 6–10Core Commands & Puppies
Sit, stay, recall and leash skills, with two lessons on puppies.
- 6Commands: Sit & Stay
- 7Puppies
- 8Commands: Recall
- 9Puppies II
- 10Commands: Loose Leash & Heel
3
Lessons 11–13Tools & Advanced Commands
The trainer's toolkit, place, leave it and drop it.
- 11Tools of the Trade
- 12Commands: Place
- 13Commands: Leave It & Drop It
4
Lessons 14–18Solving Problems
Behavior problems, aggression and behavior modification.
- 14Solving Problems I
- 15Solving Problems II
- 16Aggression
- 17Solving Problems III
- 18Modifying Problem Behaviors
Finish line
Get Certified
Earn your ISCDT Certified Dog Trainer certificate.
- All 18 lessons complete
- Video homework reviewed
52 video assignments 4 written assignments Certificate on completion
How It Works
Your Path to Becoming a Certified Dog Trainer
A simple, flexible path to earning your dog trainer certification.
1
Enroll Today
Choose your course and get instant access to your materials.
2
Learn at Your Own Pace
Work through engaging video lessons, resources, and assignments.
3
Complete the Program
Test your knowledge with quizzes and practical assignments.
4
Earn Your Certification
Receive your ISCDT Dog Trainer Certificate and start your next chapter!
Flexible Learning
Real Results
Real Results
Meet Your Instructors
Learn from Experienced Trainers and Industry Experts
ISCDT's coursework is written by trainers who work hands-on with dogs 7 days a week, with 30 years of combined experience. Meet the owners below.
Expert Guidance Every Step of the Way
Why Certification Matters
More Opportunities.
Accredited by ICES International Accreditation
More Opportunities.
A Bigger Impact.
- Build a credible, professional reputation
- Gain the skills to help more dogs and families
- Expand your career and business opportunities
- Join a respected community of certified trainers
- Make a lasting difference in your community
Accredited by ICES International Accreditation
The Owners
The Trainers Behind ISCDT
Katie and Jessica wrote the program, mentor every student, and still train dogs every week.
Talk to Katie & JessicaKatie McKnight, CDT
- Canine Behavior Practitioner
- Certified in Canine Psychology & Behavior, ISCP
- Certified Bite Prevention Educator, DNE
- Certified Public Access Training, ELLIS Animals, Inc.
- Service Dog Instructor
- Pet Dog Trainer
Jessica Freedman, CPT
- Certified Professional Trainer, National K-9 Learning Center
- Founder, Sublime K9 Dog Training
- Certified in reactivity training and marker training
- Trained in Behavioral Adjustment Training (BAT)
Real People, Real Success Stories
Hear from Our Students
Join hundreds of graduates who have turned their passion for dogs into rewarding careers.
SM
"This program gave me the confidence and knowledge to finally start my own dog training business!"Sarah M.ISCDT Graduate
MR
"The course was easy to follow, engaging, and incredibly practical. I use these skills every day."Mike R.Professional Dog Trainer
JL
"I loved the flexibility and support from the instructors. This certification has opened so many doors."Jessica L.ISCDT Graduate
DK
"A comprehensive, modern program that truly prepares you for real-world success."David K.Dog Training Business Owner
Choose Your Path
Dog Trainer Certification Courses
Online dog trainer certification at a price that fits, plus courses for business owners and pet parents.
$399
Certified Dog Trainer Course
- Complete 18-lesson curriculum
- 1-on-1 mentor support
- Quizzes & assignments
- Certification upon completion
- Community support
$49
Business Course
- Focus on building your dog training business
- Marketing & client resources
- Templates & tools
- Self-paced, 100% online
- Certificate of completion
$15
Housebreaking Course
- Perfect for pet parents
- Learn essential training skills
- Quick, proven methods
- Self-paced, 100% online
- Certificate of completion
Invest in Knowledge.
Change More Lives.
Change More Lives.
Students have one year from enrollment to complete the course. Course fees are non-refundable after one week from enrollment or once two lessons are completed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dog Trainer Certification FAQ
Everything you need to know about earning your dog trainer certification with ISCDT.
What is ISCDT?
ISCDT is an online dog trainer certification program based in Farmingdale, New York. Students complete 18 self-paced lessons, submit video homework that is reviewed by working dog trainers, and earn the ISCDT Certified Dog Trainer certificate.
How much does dog trainer certification cost at ISCDT?
The Certified Dog Trainer Course is $399, paid once, with everything included. Many other dog trainer certification programs cost several thousand dollars.
Is the ISCDT program accredited?
Yes. The ISCDT Dog Trainer Program is accredited by ICES International Accreditation.
How does the video homework work?
Most hands-on lessons include video assignments. You film yourself training a real dog, upload the video in the course, and an experienced trainer reviews it and gives you feedback. The full program includes 52 video assignments.
Is the program 100% online?
Yes. Every lesson, quiz, and assignment is online, so you can learn from anywhere on your own schedule.
How long does it take to complete the course?
The program is self-paced. Students have one year from enrollment to complete the course, so you can work through it around your job and family.
Do I need any prior experience?
No. The program is designed for all experience levels, from dog lovers just starting out to working trainers.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. You'll receive your ISCDT Dog Trainer Certificate when you complete the program requirements.
How is this program different from others?
ISCDT combines a complete, modern curriculum with individualized mentorship at a fraction of the cost of many other certification programs.
Can I get support if I have questions?
Absolutely. Experienced trainers are available to support you throughout the program.
From Our Blog
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Training Tips, Resources & More
Practical training and business advice from ISCDT’s working trainers.
Your Future in Dog Training Starts Here
- Gain in-demand skills
- Learn from trusted experts
- Earn a respected certification
- Make a real difference