Begin your profession of dog training and behaviour consulting

Course Overview:

The Canine Foundations’ Training Academy (CFTA) is more than a course, it is a comprehensive, science-driven program that prepares aspiring and developing trainers to step confidently into the profession of dog training and behaviour consulting. Rooted in evidence-based practice and humane methodology, the Academy integrates academic rigor with practical application, equipping students with both the knowledge and the professional skills required to thrive in this rapidly evolving field.

At its core, the Academy is built on three pillars: solid theoretical grounding, intensive applied practice, and structured mentorship during supervised client hours. Together, these elements create a learning experience that balances academic depth with the realities of day-to-day professional training. Students graduate not only with technical skills in canine behaviour and learning, but with the ability to counsel clients, manage cases, and conduct themselves with the ethical standards expected of modern professionals.

A Science-Based Foundation – Module 1

Module 1 provides students with a broad and rigorous understanding of the scientific principles that underpin all effective training. Topics include learning theory, applied behaviour analysis, canine ethology, animal welfare and husbandry, professional ethics, communication, instructional design, customer relations, record keeping, and the unique needs of sport and working dogs. The goal is not only to teach the science of behaviour, but to ensure students can critically evaluate methods, apply them appropriately, and communicate their reasoning to clients with clarity and confidence.

Practical Application in Real Time – Module 2

In Module 2, students move from theory to practice. Through six months of live, interactive classes, participants learn how to teach effectively, manage the dynamics of group and private sessions, and refine their instructional skills. Supervised Instructional Skills workshops and Real Class Practicals replicate real-world challenges, while Trick Training Theory & Practical sharpens timing, creativity, and engagement. Every student is paired with a Mentor Consultant who provides direct feedback, ensuring that each learner develops not only technical proficiency, but also the professional presence and adaptability to lead classes, support clients, and troubleshoot complex training scenarios.

Structured Experience Hours – Module 3

Module 3 offers students the opportunity to progress towards gaining the 300 hands-on training hours required by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). CFTA provides structured oversight to assist students in accumulating their hours: students work through a virtual platform to teach client/dog teams, have access to a Mentor Consultant for case support, submit recorded sessions for evaluation, and receive feedback from their mentor. Client evaluations add another layer of accountability, while a final multiple-choice exam reinforces knowledge in session management, client relations, program development, problem-solving, and customer service. This module is optional, but invaluable for those aiming to achieve CCPDT certification.

Pathways to Certification

The Academy is recognized as a direct pathway to professional certification. Graduates are prepared to apply for the Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) exam through CCPDT, an internationally recognized credential. Beginning in 2027, graduates will also be eligible to challenge the Registered Dog Trainer Certification exam offered by the Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT), placing CFTA students at the forefront of both Canadian and global standards in professional training.

Credential and Recognition

Students who complete Modules 1 and 2 earn the Canine Foundations’ Training Academy Certificate, issued through Georgian College. Graduates also receive an attestation from a CCPDT certificant, providing independent verification of their education when applying for professional certification exams. Module 3, while not required for the certificate, ensures that students leave the Academy with a strong head start toward meeting CCPDT’s 300-hour experience requirement.