About Western States K9 College
Western States K9 College is a professional dog trainer certification school built for people who want dog training to be more than a hobby — they want it to be a career.
Our programs are designed for aspiring and working trainers who want real-world skills, advanced behavior expertise, and the ability to build a sustainable, ethical dog training business. We focus on practical application, mentorship, and professional development — not just theory or testing.
Unlike short online courses or philosophy-specific certifications, Western States K9 College prepares students to work confidently with real clients, real dogs, and real behavior challenges. Graduates leave with the training, structure, and business foundation needed to succeed in today’s dog training industry.
We don’t train dogs here.
We train professionals.
Our Training Philosophy
At Western States K9 College, our approach to dog training education is grounded in real-world application and professional accountability.
We teach students how to assess dogs, communicate with clients, and make informed training decisions across a wide range of behavior cases — from foundational obedience to complex reactivity, fear, and aggression. Rather than limiting students to a single methodology, our programs emphasize understanding behavior, learning theory, and practical decision-making in the field.
Just as importantly, we prepare students for the realities of working with people. Client communication, expectation setting, program design, pricing, and ethical business practices are core components of our curriculum. A skilled trainer without business structure is still underprepared for a professional career.
Our goal is not to create trainers who can pass a test.
Our goal is to create trainers who can build trust, solve problems, and sustain long-term success.
Leadership & Instruction
Western States K9 College was founded and is led by Joe Dickinson, a professional dog trainer, educator, and business owner with decades of real-world experience in the field.
Joe has worked hands-on with more than 10,000 dogs across a wide spectrum of behavior challenges — from family pets to advanced behavior cases referred by veterinarians and shelters. His work spans private training, behavior modification, rescue rehabilitation, and the development of referral-based training businesses.
As Founder and Lead Instructor, Joe remains directly involved in student education and mentorship. Students don’t just learn theory — they learn the systems, decision-making frameworks, and professional standards used in real training environments.
The college was built to pass on what actually works:
clear assessments, ethical training practices, strong client relationships, and sustainable business models.
Over 10,000 dogs trained nationwide
Extensive experience in behavior modification and rehabilitation
Founder of a successful, referral-based dog training business
Educator and mentor to trainers across the U.S.
Preparing Trainers for Real Careers
Graduates of Western States K9 College go on to build professional careers across the dog training industry.
Many launch independent training businesses, offering private lessons, behavior modification services, group classes, and specialized programs. Others expand existing pet care businesses or move into advanced roles working with shelters, rescues, or veterinary-referred cases.
Because our programs emphasize both training skill and business development, graduates leave with more than a certification — they leave with a clear understanding of how to attract clients, structure services, communicate professionally, and grow sustainably.
Success in dog training isn’t defined by a single path. What our graduates share is confidence, competence, and the ability to apply their skills in real-world settings.
What You’ll Learn
At Western States K9 College, students develop the practical skills and professional judgment required to work confidently as dog trainers.
Our curriculum is designed to move beyond theory and into application. Students learn how to assess behavior, design effective training plans, communicate clearly with clients, and adapt their approach to real-world variables — including environment, temperament, and client expectations.
Equally important, students gain the foundational business knowledge needed to operate professionally. From structuring services and pricing to managing clients and maintaining ethical standards, we prepare trainers for the realities of working in the field.
This education is not about memorizing techniques.
It’s about developing the competence, confidence, and decision-making skills required for long-term success.
Who Western States K9 College Is For
Western States K9 College is designed for individuals who want dog training to be a professional path — not a side hobby or short-term interest.
Our programs are best suited for people who are committed to developing real-world skills, working directly with clients and dogs, and building a sustainable career or business in the dog training industry. Students who thrive here value mentorship, accountability, and continuous learning.
This program may be a strong fit if you are:
Exploring dog training as a long-term career
Planning to start or grow a professional dog training business
Interested in behavior modification and real-world application
Seeking mentorship and structured guidance
Ready to treat dog training as a profession