Our Most Frequently Asked Questions

Western States K9 College is not just another online course, it’s a professional-level certification program designed for serious career development in dog training. Unlike mass-market training courses, we offer structured curriculum, one-on-one mentorship, real-world skills application, and rigorous certification standards. Every graduate earns credentials that reflect true industry competency, not just course completion. Ready to start your career? Apply Now

Dog training is an unregulated industry, which means there is no universally recognized accrediting body for dog trainer education. At Western States K-9 College, we intentionally choose not to pursue third-party accreditation, and here's why:

Our mission is to provide comprehensive, unbiased education across all major training philosophies and modalities, from reward-based shaping to balanced tools-based approaches. If we were accredited by any one organization, we would risk being restricted in what we can teach, based on that organization’s specific ideology or bias.

And because we use the name “College,” we believe we carry an even greater responsibility to educate students fully and fairly. That includes teaching the science, the art, and the real-world application of training methods that actually work, not just what’s trendy or politically correct. However, our certification is recognized and respected across the industry due to our high standards, real mentorship, and focus on student success.

Our founder, Joe Dickinson, is an internationally recognized behaviorist and AKC-certified evaluator (CGC, S.T.A.R. Puppy, Community Canine, Urban CGC, and temperament testing), and our graduates are working successfully as professional trainers across the U.S. and internationally.

Rather than issuing a piece of paper without accountability, we offer true mentorship, hands-on video feedback, and practical business training, so that by the time you’re certified, you’re not only capable, you’re confident.

We believe results are the best form of accreditation. Our graduates are living proof.

No prior experience is required to begin the Canine Foundations Certification Program. The program is designed for beginners, career changers, pet owners, and aspiring professionals. Our advanced certifications are ideal for students who have completed Foundations or have relevant prior experience.

Programs are self-paced, allowing you to progress based on your schedule. On average:

• Canine Foundations: 2–4 months

• Behavior Specialist: 3–6 months

• Business & Leadership: 2–4 months

• Full Professional Certification: 6–12 months

Completion timelines may vary depending on your mentorship schedule, assignment submission, and evaluation readiness.

Each program builds a specific part of your professional training career:

• Canine Foundations: Core dog training skills and professional foundations.

• Behavior Specialist: Advanced behavior modification and complex case handling.

• Business & Leadership: Business strategy, client acquisition, and profitable practice growth.

• Full Professional Certification: Includes all programs, unlimited mentorship, and full career support.

Not sure which program fits you best? Book a Free Admissions Call

Mentorship is a key feature of every program:

• Foundations: 1 private session/month + weekly group support

• Behavior Specialist: 2 private sessions/month + weekly group support

• Business & Leadership: 1 private session/month + weekly group support

• Full Certification: Unlimited private sessions + group support throughout and after graduation

Mentoring is conducted via Zoom or phone, based on your schedule.

Certification is awarded only upon:

• Completion of all required course modules

• Submission and approval of all assignments or case studies

• Passing practical evaluations or testing

• Active participation in mentorship and review sessions

Certificates are issued digitally and can be used in resumes, marketing materials, and business documentation.

Certification is only the beginning. Graduates continue receiving group mentorship, alumni networking, and professional support as they build their careers. Many go on to:

• Launch private dog training businesses

• Work in shelters, rescues, or nonprofit organizations

• Integrate professional training services into existing pet care businesses

• Build six-figure businesses while creating flexible, fulfilling careers

Explore your career possibilities — Apply Now

Yes. Students who begin with a single certification (such as Foundations or Behavior) can upgrade to the Full Professional Certification Program at any time. Your tuition will be adjusted to ensure you never pay twice for overlapping material.

Due to the digital nature of the content and immediate access to materials and mentorship, all tuition payments are non-refundable. However, if you’re unsure about which path to take, we strongly encourage booking a free discovery call with admissions before enrolling.

What truly sets us apart is our commitment to personalized mentorship. Each student receives one-on-one coaching, offering individualized support and guidance throughout the program. This hands-on approach allows you to refine your skills, gain confidence, and apply what you learn in practical, real-world scenarios. Additionally, our focus on humane, science-based training methods ensures you graduate as a skilled, ethical, and effective trainer.

Our flexible online format makes WSK9CO accessible for anyone, whether you're balancing work, family, or other commitments. Beyond graduation, we provide access to a global professional community that fosters collaboration, networking, and ongoing mentorship. At WSK9CO, your journey doesn’t end when the program does—your success as a trainer matters to us, and we’re dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. For those seeking a holistic, career-driven, and supportive learning experience, Western States K-9 College is the ultimate choice.

Absolutely. We encourage prospective students to book a free call with our admissions team. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss your goals, and receive help choosing the best program for your career path. https://calendly.com/joe-westernstatesk9college/30min

You’ll need:

• Reliable internet access

• A device capable of streaming video and participating in Zoom sessions

• Access to email and PDF downloads

• A notebook and basic dog training tools

While having a dog is beneficial, it’s not required to begin. Many students begin their studies while observing, shadowing, or working with dogs owned by friends, family, or clients. Some programs will require hands-on case study submissions, and our team will help you prepare for those requirements.

Absolutely. Western States K9 College is built for students who want more than a hobby — we prepare you for professional success. With the right implementation of our training systems and business coaching, many graduates have:

• Built full-time businesses

• Achieved six-figure income levels

• Designed flexible schedules

• Built deeply fulfilling careers helping people and their dogs

This is your career path — Apply Now

• Joe leads all dog training modules, offering expert instruction drawn from real-world training experience.

• Shannon leads the business and leadership modules, guiding students through the process of building sustainable, profitable training businesses.

Both instructors remain actively involved in student mentorship, ensuring individualized support throughout the program.

Yes! While we offer foundational material, many of our students are already working with dogs in some capacity — as trainers, shelter workers, vet techs, or dog walkers — and use this program to formalize their education, improve results, or grow their businesses.

Our mentorship is not just group Q&As — it's real coaching. You'll get access to weekly Zoom calls, video feedback on your training submissions, and even one-on-one business strategy sessions. You’re never alone in your journey.

While we don’t place students in jobs, we offer extensive career-building resources including resume help, business coaching, marketing training, and branding support to help you create your own job or attract clients immediately after certification.

Most students spend 3–5 hours per week on the material and training exercises. However, since the program is self-paced, you can move faster or slower depending on your schedule and goals.

Professional dog training is a hands-on skill — and our students train real dogs from day one.

You will work with real dogs in real-world environments (your own dog, client dogs, shelter dogs, or volunteer dogs). Training sessions are recorded and submitted for instructor review so we can evaluate your timing, leash handling, reinforcement use, and communication skills.

You receive personalized feedback and correction from experienced instructors — not automated responses or theory-only learning.

In addition, students attend live (online) mentorship sessions for case review, troubleshooting, and skill refinement.

The coursework is delivered online.
The training itself is hands-on, evaluated, and guided.

Absolutely. Our program is 100% online and open to international students. We’ve certified trainers from the UK, Costa Rica, Canada, Australia, and more. Time zones are accommodated for live mentorship.

While not accredited in the traditional academic sense, our certification is respected across the dog training industry due to our results-driven approach, international clientele, and proven mentorship model. Many of our students go on to work professionally or start thriving businesses using this credential.

Item descriptionTuition for the Professional Dog Trainer Certification Program is $3,500.

This includes:

• Full access to all course modules

• Weekly live coaching sessions

• One-on-one mentorship

• Business development guidance

• Lifetime alumni access and support

Comparable professional programs of similar depth often range from $8,000–$10,000.

Our program is intentionally structured to provide high-level education and long-term mentorship without unnecessary financial inflation.

If accepted, enrollment must be confirmed within 72 hours.

Students select their tuition structure during the admissions conversation:

• Paid in Full $3000.00

• 6-Month Professional Payment Plan $549/mo

• 12-Month Professional Payment Plan $349/mo

Enrollment confirmation includes completing your enrollment agreement and scheduling your first tuition payment within the defined enrollment window.

We do not offer open-ended installment plans.