About

Creedons College at The Dogchester

Become a Dog Trainer.

Build the knowledge, practical ability and professional confidence to support dogs and their people with skill, empathy and integrity.

12-month programme Starts June 2027 Practical + professional skills
A career with purpose

Learn to train dogs thoughtfully—not just teach commands.

The Professional Dog Training Instructor Course is for people who want a meaningful career helping dogs and owners build better lives together.

It combines practical dog-training knowledge with the skills needed to understand canine behaviour, work ethically with owners and confidently deliver real-world training support.

For people who want to do this properly.

Dog training is more than getting a dog to sit. It means understanding learning, behaviour, communication, welfare, people and the responsibility that comes with giving advice that affects a dog’s life.

What you will develop

Knowledge you can use. Skills you can stand behind.

Across the 12-month programme, you will develop both the foundations of modern dog training and the instructor skills required to put that knowledge into practice with real dogs and real people.

01

Understanding dogs

Explore domestic dog behaviour, breed differences, communication, cognition and the needs that shape behaviour.

02

Learning and training

Learn how dogs acquire behaviours and how to create practical, ethical training plans that make sense in everyday life.

03

Practical dog-training skills

Develop your ability to teach useful skills, from puppy foundations and recall to lead walking, manners and focus.

04

Behaviour and problem solving

Build a stronger understanding of the emotional and environmental factors behind common behaviour concerns.

05

Coaching people

Learn how to explain, demonstrate, motivate and support owners so they can succeed beyond the training session.

06

Professional practice

Develop the confidence to plan sessions, communicate clearly, work within your competence and build a sustainable career.

Nanci Creedon, Clinical Animal Behaviourist and dog-training educator
Learn from experience

Led by Nanci Creedon.

Nanci is a Clinical Animal Behaviourist, educator and dog-care professional with more than 20 years of hands-on experience across dog training, behaviour, daycare, boarding and canine education.

She has spent more than 15 years helping budding dog professionals develop the knowledge and confidence to work with dogs responsibly.

  • Clinical Animal Behaviourist and Full Member of the APBC
  • Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant with the IAABC
  • Certified Dog Trainer with APDT Ireland
  • Degree in Zoology and Master’s in Animal Behaviour & Welfare
  • Recognised canine behaviour media expert and educator
Your learning journey

From keen dog person to capable professional.

01

Build strong foundations

Understand dogs, learning, welfare and the principles behind effective, ethical training.

02

Practise the practical

Apply what you learn to the everyday training skills owners genuinely need help with.

03

Learn to teach people too

Develop the communication and coaching skills that turn good dog knowledge into useful owner support.

04

Grow a professional career

Understand ethical practice, session planning and how to take your next steps in the dog-training industry.

June 2027 intake

Would you love to build a career helping dogs and their people?

Register your interest for the Professional Dog Training Instructor Course and be first to receive the full course information.

Register your interest