Become a Certified Dog Trainer with Puppy School
A structured, mentored pathway for those looking to become a dog trainer, gain a recognised dog training qualification, and build a welfare-led professional career working toward ABTC Animal Training Instructor (ATI) status
What Puppy School offers:
- An accredited training programme recognised by the Animal Behaviour Training Council (ABTC), leading to Animal Training Instructor (ATI) status - a respected dog trainer certification and professional route to long-term success. The only ABTC ATI pathway with a built-in puppy training specialism.
- A fully developed, ready-to-launch business built for success - with a proven syllabus and structured lesson plans for puppies and older dogs, an automated booking system, professional website, marketing assets, branded rosettes, and everything you need to start confidently and grow sustainably after completing your dog trainer training course.
- Reward-based, science-led, welfare-focused training, grounded in a positive ethos that benefits animals, trainees, trainers, and clients - forming the foundation of a modern certified dog trainer course.
- Supportive one-to-one mentorship from a local experienced Puppy School trainer, guiding you through your initial training, your first classes, the ABTC accreditation, and beyond. Your learning journey doesn’t stop at certification - neither does our support. If you are researching how to become a dog trainer, this structured mentorship is what sets our dog instructor courses apart.
- A trusted teaching method delivered by highly experienced Clinical Animal Behaviourists and trainers with decades of experience. Learn effectively through a blend of in-person training, online learning, real-life puppy practicals, and individual coaching with personalised feedback to develop essential training skills required for professional dog trainer certification.
- Ongoing CPD opportunities once classes are established, including complimentary puppy behaviour courses led by respected Clinical Animal Behaviourists, as well as regular CPD training days and conferences to support your continued professional development as a certified dog trainer.
- Access to a strong internal community of over 120 experienced and supportive Puppy School trainers, offering ongoing collaboration, shared expertise, and the opportunity to build lasting professional relationships - and often lifelong friendships.
A national brand with an established reputation
If you are exploring dog trainer courses or wondering how to become a certified dog trainer in the UK, Puppy School provides a structured, mentored and professionally recognised pathway. Begin your journey with us …
Exclusive free webinar
Enrol with us and join our complimentary online Education Evening in June, “What Is It Really Like to Be a Dog Trainer?” Gain an honest, real-world insight into the profession and meet the experienced trainers who will be teaching and mentoring you throughout your journey on our dog trainer training course.
Charlie Houghton, Worcestershire, PS tutor since 2024"I saw Puppy School as a route into a dog training career. I found it incredibly valuable to have a network of highly skilled and experienced professionals to lean on. Now I'm an ABTC-accredited Animal Training Instructor."
Louise Otter, South London, PS tutor since 2008"The training and ongoing support through a community of like-minded professionals appealed to me 18 years ago and I haven't looked back since! 3000+ puppies trained since and I still love it!"
Vicky Clifton, Gloucestershire, Puppy School Associate Tutor since 2002"I really enjoyed broadening my knowledge of training, behaviour and learning and I loved the supportive, friendly and reward-based environment that Puppy School provided."
Investment costs
The Puppy School Tutor Training Course - incorporating all teaching required for the ABTC ATI qualification - is offered at an accessible investment of £1,850. Flexible payment plans are available, with two scholarships per course and a 25% discount for Registered Veterinary Nurses and Animal Welfare Charity employees.
For those ready to train to professional, welfare-led standards and join a trusted network built over 23 years....
Considering joining Puppy School?
If you want to know more, or are researching how to become a dog trainer or comparing different dog trainer courses, you'll find everything you need in the pages below to make an informed decision.
We believe in being transparent, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
