Canine Training Certification: Canine Sports Training
(15 credits)
In our Canine Sports Training program, you’ll develop a thorough knowledge of athletic training and conditioning techniques for dogs. You’ll gain a fundamental skillset for dog sports performance training and gain the opportunity to expand your business beyond obedience training.
Skills Developed in this Course
Stand out from traditional dog trainers by developing these specific skills:
- Create appropriate diets for athletic dogs undergoing training.
- Design a training schedule to promote overall health.
- Recognize the symptoms of stress that can lead to injury and how to address them.
- Create a strength and conditioning program for canine athletes.
- Build multiple behavioral chains for use in canine sports.
- Reliably communicate with dogs over longer distances.
- Train dogs to work comfortably in novel situations and environments.
Required Courses and Fieldwork Hours
The Canine Sports Training certificate requires completing five online courses (15 academic credits) and 40 hours of hands-on experience as an employee, intern, or volunteer at an approved institution of your choice.
Note: Field hours for the Advanced Canine Training program, the Canine Training & Behavior program, or the Service & Therapy Dog Training program can also be used toward this program.
Required courses:
- ABI 234 Canine Training
- ABI 264 Training the Canine Athlete
- ABI 271 Canine Behavior & Enrichment
- ABI 274 Canine Scent Work
- ABI 312 Canine Health & Nutrition
Career Opportunities for Dog Sports Trainers
Once you’ve completed our course, you’ll be a Certified Canine Sports Training Professional (CCSTP). This will highlight the specialized skills you’ve developed.
You’ll have many career paths to follow, including starting your own business, training dogs for competitions, working as an independent dog trainer, or setting yourself up as a behavioral consultant.
You could also work in:
- Kennels or doggy day cares
- Animal shelters
- Veterinary practices
- Animal control agencies
- Sanctuaries or other dog-related organizations
The animal care and service industry, which includes dog trainers, is expected to grow by 11% over the next decade.
Hear What Our Students Have to Say About Their Experience
Why Choose ABI for Your Dog Behavior Training Certification?
- Accredited Programs – Accredited by the International Accreditors for or Continuing Education & Training
- Flexible Online Learning – Work on your schedule, with no rigid class times or commuting required.
- Expert Faculty – Learn from experienced professionals who provide personalized feedback and genuine mentorship.
- Confidence Guarantee – Every semester you’ll have a full week to review the course – if you choose to withdraw you’ll receive a 100% tuition refund
ABI’s Approach
As a student at the Animal Behavior Institute, you’ll learn in an interactive online classroom that allows you to:
- Participate in regular dialogue with professors and student colleagues.
- Gain feedback every week on projects and discussions.
- Work on collaborative projects during the semester.
- Seek help with any challenges you’re experiencing with your own training.
Johanne’s Story
Johanne’s passion for working with dogs brought her to the Animal Behavior Institute. She took the Canine Training and Behavior course to earn her canine behavior certification.
To complete her fieldwork, Johanne worked at Different Breed Training. She also worked at Voodoo Dogs, preparing dogs for a rally, obedience, and tracking competitions.
Since graduating, she gained her dog behaviorist certification, opened a new training business, and is taking our Advanced Canine Training course to further her skills.
FAQs
Do I need prior training experience to enroll in the Canine Sports Training Program?
No, you don’t need prior training experience to enroll in our Canine Sports Training program. We will teach you everything you need to know, from the basics to more advanced techniques.
What types of dog sports does the program cover?
Our program encompasses a wide range of dog sports, including agility, flyball, obstacle courses, nosework, and more.
How much does the program cost - are financing options available?
The total cost of our Canine Sports Training program is $6,600, with an additional $50 application fee and an average of $75 per course for textbooks. We offer 0%, interest-free interest financing for students.
How do I become a certified canine sports trainer?
To become a certified canine sports trainer, you must complete your coursework and do the required 40 hours of fieldwork.