Get Certified!
The next program begins February 2026 at our NE Minneapolis location! Join our Email list (below) to find out when registration opens!
Get "Canine Coach Certified" in just 7 Weeks!
Your path to becoming a dog trainer starts here with the most fun, friendly, effective dog trainers in the Twin Cities. We’ve been at this for 20 years and we know exactly how to turn dog lovers with little or no experience into dog trainers.
Learn the psychology behind canine behavior, practice modern training techniques, and get weekly hands-on experience working with dogs in a supportive, professional environment. Our new program is the perfect launch pad for anyone looking to get into the dog training field. And it’s a powerful first step toward real career opportunities, even with us!
The Path to Getting “Canine Coach Certified”
Our program has evolved to become more comprehensive. The preliminary course focuses on developing your understanding of dog behavior and your ability to work confidently with dogs. But that’s only one part of becoming a great trainer. In Phase 2, through our internship, you’ll learn how to apply those skills to help owners build stronger, more successful relationships with their dog in a group class setting.
PHASE 1 - Foundations for Professional Certification - $1,995
7 week hybrid course - digital + in-person
Structured curriculum includes digital coursework + in-person sessions + knowledge tests
Prepares you for any dog training certification program (including ours!)
Includes certificate of completion + invitation to apply to the internship program
PHASE 2 - Internship Program - FREE for selected Phase 1 graduates
6-8 month program - intensive hands-on experience
Includes observations and co-teaching for our core group classes: Puppy, Level 1, Level 1.5, and Leash Walking
Includes 8 weeks of weekly hands-on practice working with dogs at our facility
Includes the opportunity to teach your own class after two rounds of co-teaching
Includes knowledge and skill assessment for The Canine Coach Certification (CCC-KSA) and the opportunity for employment with The Canine Coach!
"This is such a great opportunity!! The very short list of people we trust wholeheartedly to handle our reactive dogs is almost fully comprised of Canine Coach staff, trainers, and individuals who have worked with them in some capacity. 💗 The best people around, especially Erin! If I knew someone had been certified through this program, I’d be way more likely to trust them with my dogs, too. ✨" — Canine Coach client Kayla S
What to Expect from the Course: Foundations for Professional Certification
The 7-week course runs several times per year
Location alternates between our NE Mpls and St. Paul facilities
Up to eight participants are accepted per session
Weekly curriculum topics include:
Animal Learning Theory
Reward Markers & Shaping Methods
Social Structure Theory & Healthy Play
Body Language & Behavioral Formulas
Addressing Unwanted Behaviors
Leashwork & Equipment Use
Schedules of Reinforcement
Each week you will:
Watch lecture and demo videos in the digital portal
Attend two in-person 90-minute sessions for discussion and hands-on practice with actual dogs
Optionally self-assess what you learned via digital quizzes and connect with instructors during office hours
At the end of the course, there is a field trip to Minneapolis Animal Care and Control to practice training with shelter dogs!
Basic commands covered include: sit, down, stand, “watch me,” leave it, drop it, quiet hold, sit-stay, polite greetings, appropriate play, puppy modifications, loose-leash walking, recall, “go-to-bed,” and more!
What Makes Our Program Unique
Dog Behavior + Training Experts
Learn from certified dog behavior specialists with years of experience helping trainers reach their full potential.
Hands-on Dog Training Experience
No other dog trainer certification in our area offers hands-on practice with actual dogs. You'll get to work directly with dogs 2x per week to hone your training skills!
Fun, Friendly, Supportive Environment
Having fun is integral to learning! You're going to love our friendly, knowledgeable teachers and our supportive team spirit.
Deep-Dive Discussions
We love to nerd-out at our in-person sessions! Explore the fascinating world of animal psychology with in-depth lectures and discussions.
How much does it cost?
Our program is like no other in the Twin Cities. Meeting twice per week to work with our expert trainers and dogs at our facilities is an invaluable experience that will serve you for years to come
7-Week Course: $1,995
The fee includes: full access to digital lectures and demos, two in-person sessions per week, hands-on dog training, MACC field trip, and all course materials
Payment plans are available via Afterpay!
PAYMENT PLANS ARE AVAILABLE
Register now, pay later with Afterpay! Spread out the cost of the program with custom and interest-free plans.
Spring 2026 Course: Foundations for Professional Certification
Program dates: February 2 - March 20, 2026
In-person training days: Wed and Fri 11am-12:30pm at our NE Mpls facility
Only eight spots are available!
Click here to join our email list to learn more and find out when registration opens!