Online Dog Walking Academy
Attend the DWA anytime, anywhere
Online DWA class details
Online Instruction
The Online DWA is comprised of 5 units covering 14 key topics. Tackle them at your own pace over 6 months. Instruction includes lecture, visuals, video, and interactive activities.
Q&A Call In
Bring your questions to optional group Q&A calls led by dogbiz Dog Walking Academy instructors.
Section Quizzes
Online quizzes test your understanding of each section. Passing a section quiz will advance you to the next course topic.
Walking Field Trip
Once you’ve successfully completed your online coursework we’ll assign you to your local Field Trip Coach for a guided, hands-on experience with dogs to test and apply your classroom learning.
Tuition
The typical full-time professional dog walker makes between $40K and $150K per year, depending on location, style of service, and size of business.
We’d love to help you do the same.
Dog Walking Package A
- Dog Walking Academy tuition
- Business of Dog Walking book
- Business Toolkit for Walkers & Sitters
You save: $100
$1,050 USD
Dog Walking Package B
- Dog Walking Academy tuition
- Business of Dog Walking book
- Business Toolkit for Walkers & Sitters
- 5 hours of Business Consulting
You save: $150
$1,600 USD
What DWA grads say
“What a terrific way for people to learn to start a dog walking business or, like me, improve the one they already have. I’m proud to be a dogbiz grad!”
– Mandy Thompson, K9 Fife Dog Walking & Home Boarding, Fife, Scotland
“Such a well-rounded class, with information about the business aspect of the job as well as dog behavior and training. I now feel prepared for so many situations.”
– Suzy Arrington, Ms. Manners for Dogs, Fairfield, NJ
“I learned so much and am using that knowledge daily. I hope the DWA becomes a requirement for all dog walkers someday.”
— Matt Williams, San Francisco, CA
“Graduating from the DWA… led to improved client retention, dog safety, and ultimately enjoying my work more than I already did. Your class was brilliant… worth every penny.”
—Paige Tuhey, The Netherlands
Why attend the DWA online
Work class around your schedule
Already busy walking dogs? Working long hours at a “regular” job? Other family obligations? Fit class in around the edges—plug away for a full day on the weekends or take advantage of your lunch hour or the 15 minutes sitting in the car each day waiting for the kids to get out of school.
Learn from anywhere
Tackle your coursework from your couch, your cubicle, your favorite backyard perch, or even from your hotel during a work trip or vacation. All you need is a computer or tablet and an internet connection.
High quality instruction
You’ll learn from dogbiz co-founder and Dog Walking Academy co-creator Veronica Boutelle, one of the most accomplished and respected speakers and teachers in our industry, and author of the definitive book on modern professional dog walking: The Business of Dog Walking: How To Make a Living Doing What You Love.
Work with a local coach
Apply your online learning during a supportive one-on-one training walk with your Field Trip Coach—a carefully chosen, experienced and credentialed dog trainer who will guide you through a 60-90 minute hands-on experience with dogs.
Graduate perks
dogbiz Certificate of Professional Dog Walking seal
Signal your professionalism to potential clients, referral sources, or employers. You receive an electronic seal for your website, a version for printed marketing materials, and (upon request) a paper certificate.
Access to our private Facebook page
Join our exclusive, active, supportive community of DWA graduates. Ask questions, offer answers, and keep in touch with fellow dog walking pros around the world. Our instructors hang out there, too.
Discounted dogbiz products & services
Enjoy discounts on business support consulting, dogbiz University courses, and products to help run your dog walking business.
Ready to start a new dog walking career or elevate your current one?
Become a Certified Dog Walker.
Get free business and walking tips
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“I love your newsletter. I read it from start to finish every month and learn so much.” – Gayle Motyka, Rescue Me Canines