Take the Dog Walking Academy to:
Start a new career
Trade in your stressful, stale, or unsatisfying work for a living doing something you love—spending time with dogs.
Grow your business
Already walking? Learn a few new dog tricks, gain a marketing edge, solve pesky problems, and grow your business to new heights.
Learn your way
Attend our 3-day in-person course or go at your own pace in our online program—whichever best suits you and your schedule.
Get the best staff
Save training time, set your company apart, and get more from your dog walking, pet sitting, dog daycare, and boarding kennel staff.
What you get
- Instruction from industry leaders
- Guided hands-on training and field trip
- Professional dog walking certification seal
- Answers to all your dog behavior questions
- Expert business guidance
- Course presentation materials
- The Business of Dog Walking book
- Access to supportive, private Facebook group for grads
The Dog Walking Academy is comprehensive education for professional dog walkers. We cover 13 topics broken into 5 areas:
1. Understanding Dog Behavior
Module 1: Learning Theory: How Dogs Think & Learn
Module 2: Canine Communication: Speaking Dog
Module 3: Aggression & Project Dogs: It’s All Behavior
Module 4: Dog Fights: Prevention & Resolution
2. Running Your Dog Business
Module 5: Running a Successful Dog Walking Business
Module 6: Screening & Group Composition: Making Smart Choices
Module 7: Client Intake: Getting Off on the Right Foot & Paw
3. Playing It Safe
Module 8: Emergency Planning & Protocols: Predicting the Unpredictable
Module 9: Canine First Aid: Building Critical Skills
Module 10: Transporting Dogs: On the Road with Fido
4. Walking the Dogs
Module 11: Walk Management: Ready, Set, Walk!
Module 12: Walking Puppies: Taking Special Care
Module 13: Basic Training: Dog Training for Dog Walkers
5. Taking the Field Trip
Module 14: Field Trip Success Prep
Module 15: The Hands-On Field Trip
DWA Tuition
Class Policies
The Dog Walking Academy is a professional course for adult students 18 and over.
Cancellations & Refunds
In-Person Course
To afford to keep classes small we do not provide refunds for in-person courses. Cancellations two weeks prior to class are credited toward future classes. Cancellations within two weeks of class are not credited. No-shows are not credited.
Online Course
If after completing the first two modules you decide the DWA isn’t right for you, just let us know within 30 days of registration and we’ll provide a full refund.
Quick answers to our most common questions:
The minimum age to attend the Dog Walking Academy is 18.
The course is for both experienced and new dog walkers.
Payment plans are available. Email info@dogbizsuccess.com to set yours up.
In Person DWA FAQ
Can I bring my own dog to class?
We’re sorry, student dogs are not allowed in class.
Where is class held?
We offer classes in cities across the U.S. as well as several international locations.
Online DWA FAQ
How long will it take to complete the online course?
Some students take the allotted 6 months to finish, others complete the course in as little as two weeks.
What are the tech requirements to take the DWA online?
You’ll need a computer or tablet and an internet connection.
Is the DWA right for you?
20-somethings starting their first career
More dog lovers these days are following their passion and choosing dogs as their first career, right after high school or college.
40-somethings looking for a career change
Lawyers, accountants, tech workers, ad execs, baristas, teachers, political consultants, writers, engineers, retail workers, waiters, HR directors—we’ve seen students seeking second (or third or fourth) careers from virtually every industry you can think of.
60-somethings seeking a retirement career
Whether for extra income or personal satisfaction and health, dog loving retirees are choosing an active retirement walking dogs.
Highly experienced career dog walkers
Professional dog walkers understand that to grow up living with and loving dogs isn’t enough, and choose to augment their hands-on experience with up-to-date, science-based learning about dog behavior and handling.
Dog business employees & job seekers
Many dog walking, dog daycare, pet sitting, and boarding companies send their employees to the Dog Walking Academy to fast-track their training in dog behavior, handling, and safety. And many of our students attend in order to better compete for these jobs.
“This course has inspired me to breathe new life into something I’ve been doing for years, and take it to the next level. I absolutely recommend the DWA to experienced and inexperienced dog walkers.” –Sara Munro
“I learned so much and am using that knowledge daily. I hope the DWA becomes a requirement for all dog walkers someday.” –Matt Williams
“I was determined to follow my passion and work with dogs… but it wasn’t until the Dog Walking Academy that I felt confident to turn my passion in to a true endeavor.” –Nick Carrel
“The DWA was a life-altering experience for me. You provided me with more ‘ah-ha’ moments in those three days than a lifetime with dogs.” – Glynis Dewing
“There is so much to learn in this business, and your program covered everything! You gave me the knowledge and confidence to start my own dream business.” –Jill Merjeski
“Graduating from the DWA… lead to improved client retention, dog safety and ultimately to enjoying my work more than I already did. Your class was brilliant …worth every penny.” –Paige Tuhey
“My business is doing well and I’m no longer doing real estate. I couldn’t be happier. Taking that first step to attend the Dog Walking Academy put me on the path to where I am today.” –Kelly Fahey
Our instructors are expert dog trainers with deep experience and top educational credentials.
Dog trainers teach our courses because professional dog walkers skilled in canine learning theory, body language, basic training, and walk management are better prepared to understand and address dog behavior. And that means safer, easier, more enjoyable walks for dogs and walker alike.
The Dog Walking Academy is comprehensive education for professional dog walkers. We cover 13 topics broken into 5 areas:
1. Understanding Dog Behavior
Module 1: Learning Theory: How Dogs Think & Learn
Module 2: Canine Communication: Speaking Dog
Module 3: Aggression & Project Dogs: It’s All Behavior
Module 4: Dog Fights: Prevention & Resolution
2. Running Your Dog Business
Module 5: Running a Successful Dog Walking Business
Module 6: Screening & Group Composition: Making Smart Choices
Module 7: Client Intake: Getting Off on the Right Foot & Paw
3. Playing It Safe
Module 8: Emergency Planning & Protocols: Predicting the Unpredictable
Module 9: Canine First Aid: Building Critical Skills
Module 10: Transporting Dogs: On the Road with Fido
4. Walking the Dogs
Module 11: Walk Management: Ready, Set, Walk!
Module 12: Walking Puppies: Taking Special Care
Module 13: Basic Training: Dog Training for Dog Walkers
5. Taking the Field Trip
Module 14: Field Trip Success Prep
Module 15: The Hands-On Field Trip
DWA Tuition
Class Policies
The Dog Walking Academy is a professional course for adult students 18 and over.
Cancellations & Refunds
In-Person Course
To afford to keep classes small we do not provide refunds for in-person courses. Cancellations two weeks prior to class are credited toward future classes. Cancellations within two weeks of class are not credited. No-shows are not credited.
Online Course
If after completing the first two modules you decide the DWA isn’t right for you, just let us know within 30 days of registration and we’ll provide a full refund.
Quick answers to our most common questions:
The minimum age to attend the Dog Walking Academy is 18.
The course is for both experienced and new dog walkers.
Payment plans are available. Email info@dogbizsuccess.com to set yours up.
In Person DWA FAQ
Can I bring my own dog to class?
We’re sorry, student dogs are not allowed in class.
Where is class held?
We offer classes in cities across the U.S. as well as several international locations.
Online DWA FAQ
How long will it take to complete the online course?
Some students take the allotted 6 months to finish, others complete the course in as little as two weeks.
What are the tech requirements to take the DWA online?
You’ll need a computer or tablet and an internet connection.
Is the DWA right for you?
20-somethings starting their first career
More dog lovers these days are following their passion and choosing dogs as their first career, right after high school or college.
40-somethings looking for a career change
Lawyers, accountants, tech workers, ad execs, baristas, teachers, political consultants, writers, engineers, retail workers, waiters, HR directors—we’ve seen students seeking second (or third or fourth) careers from virtually every industry you can think of.
60-somethings seeking a retirement career
Whether for extra income or personal satisfaction and health, dog loving retirees are choosing an active retirement walking dogs.
Highly experienced career dog walkers
Professional dog walkers understand that to grow up living with and loving dogs isn’t enough, and choose to augment their hands-on experience with up-to-date, science-based learning about dog behavior and handling.
Dog business employees & job seekers
Many dog walking, dog daycare, pet sitting, and boarding companies send their employees to the Dog Walking Academy to fast-track their training in dog behavior, handling, and safety. And many of our students attend in order to better compete for these jobs.
“This course has inspired me to breathe new life into something I’ve been doing for years, and take it to the next level. I absolutely recommend the DWA to experienced and inexperienced dog walkers.” –Sara Munro
“I learned so much and am using that knowledge daily. I hope the DWA becomes a requirement for all dog walkers someday.” –Matt Williams
“I was determined to follow my passion and work with dogs… but it wasn’t until the Dog Walking Academy that I felt confident to turn my passion in to a true endeavor.” –Nick Carrel
“The DWA was a life-altering experience for me. You provided me with more ‘ah-ha’ moments in those three days than a lifetime with dogs.” – Glynis Dewing
“There is so much to learn in this business, and your program covered everything! You gave me the knowledge and confidence to start my own dream business.” –Jill Merjeski
“Graduating from the DWA… lead to improved client retention, dog safety and ultimately to enjoying my work more than I already did. Your class was brilliant …worth every penny.” –Paige Tuhey
“My business is doing well and I’m no longer doing real estate. I couldn’t be happier. Taking that first step to attend the Dog Walking Academy put me on the path to where I am today.” –Kelly Fahey
Our instructors are expert dog trainers with deep experience and top educational credentials.
Dog trainers teach our courses because professional dog walkers skilled in canine learning theory, body language, basic training, and walk management are better prepared to understand and address dog behavior. And that means safer, easier, more enjoyable walks for dogs and walker alike.
Course Formats
Attend in Person
Choose from multiple cities for our 3-day intensive dog walking course.
Learn more about the in-person course
Attend Online
Attend dog walking school at your pace from the comfort of your home.
Learn more about the online course
Why attend the dogbiz Dog Walking Academy
Love what you do
Whether you’re just starting as a dog walker or have been walking dogs for a decade, we’ll help you get the most from every moment. Walk with confidence and ease, enjoy safe control of your dogs, and let go of your business worries.
Bypass business hassles & make more money
Learn how to sidestep and fix the common start-up, marketing, rate, and policy mistakes that keep dog walkers from making a strong, reliable living walking dogs. Why learn from your own mistakes if you don’t have to, or make less money than you could?
Solve perplexing dog problems
Ever wondered why dogs do what they do? Found yourself unable to get a dog to start or stop doing something? Struggled with a stressful behavior problem? You’ll leave class with answers and solutions to all your canine dilemmas.
Set yourself apart
Stand out to potential clients, referral sources, or employers by investing in the “Harvard” of dog walking schools. Your CPDW (Certificate in Professional Dog Walking) seal proclaims your professionalism and commitment to the best possible care of the dogs entrusted to you.
Maximize safety
From canine first aid/ CPR to emergency protocols and understanding how to avoid and break up dog fights, arm yourself with the understanding, skills, and confidence to handle anything that comes your way.
Be a pro
In an unregulated industry, anyone can be a dog walker. But to be a professional dog walker requires professional education and training. We’ve continued to set the bar for dog walking education since we launched the first class of its kind in 2004.