Dog Trainer Qualification UK (Aligned with recognised Industry bodies)
A structured accredited route into becoming a professional dog trainer in the UK, with real training, real dogs and real in person training.
Using 15 years of both academic and practical learning the Spirit Dog Trainer® qualification aligns industry regulation bodies with a structured accredited route into becoming a professional dog trainer in the UK.
These courses are open to all; you will be required to carry out a minimum of 500 hours real life dog training to secure your certificate.Â
On completion of the qualification you will have the opportunity to purchase your own exclusive franchise territory at a discounted rate and run your own business as part of a recognised and respected industry brand.
Course Catalogue
The Spirit Dog Trainer®
(Specialist in Holistic Dog Training)
Accredited Course
An in-person blended learning course for those aspiring to become a fully accredited Dog Trainer, equipped to deliver training classes and home visits supporting owners and their dogs.
Combining practical experience with guided learning, the course provides a comprehensive, holistic approach to dog training and support packages.
Candidates must attend all in-person training days and complete 500 hours of practical dog handling to achieve full certification.
An excellent pathway into full exclusive franchise territory ownership (open to external candidates).
The Spirit Dog Trainer®
Accredited Course
An in-person blended learning course for those wishing to develop their skills and knowledge in dog training, without delivering training to owners or clients.
Ideal for aspiring dog trainers, as well as those simply wanting to deepen their understanding and improve their own dog’s training and wellbeing.
Candidates are required to attend all in-person training days and complete 250 hours of practical dog handling to achieve certification.
An excellent pathway into working within existing franchise territories and to be able to offer 1-2-1 tailored training walks (open to external candidates).
The Spirit Dog Trainer®
Foundation Agility Trainer Course
Accredited Course
Develop Your Skills in Canine Agility
An in-person blended learning course for those who already have a solid knowledge of dog training and are looking to develop their skills in canine agility as an additional strand of income.
Designed to build practical knowledge and confidence, this course provides the foundations needed to introduce and deliver agility training in a safe, engaging and professional way.
Candidates are required to attend all in-person training days and complete the required case studies to achieve certification.…
The Spirit Dog Walkers Course
Accredited Course
This course would be suitable for someone who is wishing to start business as a dog walker, either with one of our franchisees or independently.
The course covers Relevant Health & Safety – including personal safety, Handling & Husbandry as well as basic canine behaviour.
The health and safety module can be completed online; however, one practical handling day must be attended in person, and a case study and portfolio work will be required.
This is not an attendance only certificate – there is a pass or fail requirement.
The Spirit Reward & Reinforcement
Workshop
Live Workshop
A half-day, in-person workshop exploring how reward and reinforcement can transform communication, engagement and partnership between dogs and handlers.
Discover how to identify the most effective rewards for each individual dog and use them to build focus, motivation and a stronger working relationship.
Ideal for pet owners and handlers, with working partnerships especially welcome — including sniffer, police and other working dogs — helping you gain the edge and get the very best from your dog.
Spectator places are also available. Can be delivered at your own training venue.
Additional Training Courses
Coming Soon!
All the Spirit Dog Trainer® courses are accredited with the Skills & Education Group
In an unregulated world it is a minefield on which company to use for training to be a dog trainer. All the Spirit Dog Trainer® courses are accredited with the Skills & Education Group, our internal verifier is Nicki Kelly, who has substantial experience in the Further Education Sector. The final practical assessment will be carried out by an external assessor.
The Full Holistic Training Course was content checked by no less than 5 external industry professionals, assuring candidates of the very best quality of information. “Outstanding” was the feedback received.
As full members of the UK Dog Behaviour & Training Charter you can be assured of the very best in quality education.
Find a Professional
The courses are developed with a mixture of academic learning and practical hands-on and are delivered in person with support. Â
All learning styles have been considered, and course material can be provided in audible formats where required.Â
We are totally committed to allowing the courses to be totally accessible so if you have a particular learning requirement then please do let us know.
This is a professional dog trainer development pathway that can be delivered across the UK and anyone interested in hosting the qualification should get in touch on admin@essentialcaninelifeskills.co.uk
What Are Others Saying?
The Spirit Dog Trainer®
(Specialist in Holistic Dog Training)
Accredited Course
- Canine behaviour and influences
- Teaching Dogs Essential Canine Life Skills
- Holistic dog training methods
- Practical handling and training
- Working with dogs and their owners
Spirit Dog Trainer®
Accredited Course
The Spirit Dog Trainer®
Foundation Agility Trainer
Accredited Course
This course would be a great tool for someone already offering dog training and wants to add fun agility as an add-on. Alternatively pet dog owners wishing to undertake their own training. It covers the responsibilities of offering agility training (health, welfare and suitability of the dog), safe introduction of sequencing for jumps and tunnels and some basic skills for the dog and handlers, along with some games and exercises to get you started. This course does not cover weaves and contacts which are covered in other courses.Â
Duration of the course is 2.5 days and will be a mixture of academic and practical learning, including a practical assessment.Â
On completion of the course, you will be able to safely offer pet dog agility training and be confident in the knowledge that should your client wish to go on and do competitive agility then you have given them the best possible start to their chosen sport.Â
Cost is £1000 November 2026 Special Offer £550 – Discounts and easy payment options can apply – please email for further details.
Essex
The Spirit Dog Walkers Course
Accredited Course
This course would be suitable for someone who wishes to start business as a dog walker, either with one of our franchisees or independently. The course covers Relevant Health & Safety – including personal safety, Handling & Husbandry as well as basic canine behaviour.
The health and safety module can be completed online; however, one practical handling day must be attended in person, and a case study and portfolio work will be required. This is not an attendance only certificate – there is a pass or fail requirement.
Price (Coming Soon).
