SSDT has been offering an unofficial Apprenticeship program for the last five years, helping new trainers gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become professional and accredited dog trainers. We are thrilled to announce that we have created an official Apprenticeship program! For a limited time, we are offering this program as a pilot at a discounted rate, pending application, interview and acceptance into the program. Please inquire for pricing.

Qualifications:

  1. Previous training experience is a bonus but not required

  2. Dedication and commitment to rewards-based and scientifically backed training methods.

  3. Basic understanding of learning theory: how to influence behavior change

    1. Rewards vs. punishments and the benefits and drawbacks of both in altering behavior

    2. The three methods of getting behavior: luring vs. capturing vs. shaping

    3. Event markers and their usage

    4. Reward schedules and their use

  4. Experience handling dogs of all sizes

  5. Basic understanding of normal dog behavior, ethology, development, and body language

Time commitment:

  1. Must be able to attend group classes a minimum 3 evenings/weekend days per week

  2. Must be able to commit to 4-6 months of instruction

What you’ll have at the end:

  • Knowledge necessary to take the cpdt certification

  • Hands on training and tutelage with two senior trainers

  • Possibility to begin seeing clients at a low rate under guidance of senior trainers to build experience. By invitation only.