This module is designed to teach you how to set up, manage and teach a professional dog / puppy training class. Although dog handling and dog training are covered the emphasis is on how to teach a class, or an individual, rather than how to train a dog; the core skills needed for a Dog Training Instructor. As such, as an absolute minimum, you must have a minimum of six months training experience or have completed CFBA 4110 Understanding Canine Care & Behaviour and CFBA 4004 Basic Dog Handling and Training Skills.

Spread over three phases you’ll learn about things such as; how learning takes place, how to structure training module, how to then break them down into session plans, how to design handouts of various medium and then, on the workshop, putting into action the theory learned.

The module can be undertaken at any time and over any reasonable period within a maximum of six months from the date of registration.

Phase 1 (Distance Learning)

This includes initial work based analysis and research. This also provides you with an opportunity to research training methods, theories and instructor roles. As part of your learning journey for phase one you’re required to conduct secondary research via the Internet, library and other sources such as books and journals on specific methods used for dog training and the control of dogs. This includes the identification of potential or current problems and the relevance of correction using training techniques.

Basic anatomy and physiology of how learning takes place is covered in phase one as we review how dogs learn; as part of this basic training techniques are covered.

Phase 2 (also Distance Learning) is also distance learning and discusses the various skills required to successfully run dog training classes. We look at breed and types of dog and the assessment of temperaments within the class environment. Creating session plans and training programmes are covered in phase two in preparation for putting it into practice on the next phase, the workshop.

Phase 3 (Workshop)

An intensive but fun day covering teaching techniques, session planning and generally what makes a successful instructor successful, and most importantly, you get a chance to put into practice the planning from Phase 2. The workshop is held at the Kennel Club Building.

This phase includes:

• General and safety briefings
• Human and canine body language
• Use of equipment for controlling dogs
• Hands-on work with dogs and people
• Review and discussion sessions include video-taped handling and playback analysis
• One-to-one and group activities for peer discussion

The module finishes with an exercise of reflection which you have four weeks to complete.

This course is one of three courses you can complete in order to obtain a University Certificate, find out more here.

Guild Of Dog Trainers

Completion of this module (CFBA 4005) along with CFBA 4110 and CFBA 4102 makes you eligible to join the Guild of Dog Trainers as a Master Trainer.