Working with Dogs: Foundations

Build Confidence, Clarity & Canine Understanding

A Comprehensive Course for Aspiring Dog Care Professionals

Is This You?

  • Are you thinking about starting a career working with dogs and seeking foundational knowledge?

  • Maybe you’re an experienced canine professional aiming to refresh your understanding of canine behaviour?

  • Do you work at a doggie daycare, or are you a dog walker? Looking to enhance your skills in interpreting dog body language and learning patterns?

  • Desiring to provide better care and communication with the dogs you work with daily?

  • Or maybe you're a vet nurse wanting to be able to support your canine patients better?

    If you answered "yes" to any of these, the Working with Dogs: Foundations course is your next step.

By the end of this course, you'll be equipped to:

  • Understand the fundamentals of canine learning theory and behaviour.

  • Interpret and respond to various dog body language cues effectively.

  • Apply force-free, ethical training methods in your daily interactions.

  • Recognize different stages of dog development and adjust care accordingly.

  • Enhance communication with both dogs and their owners or caregivers.

Course Schedule:

Start Date: Monday, 8th July at 7:00 PM (UK Time)
Duration: 6 sessions over 7 weeks (with a one-week break on 29th July)

All sessions are hosted LIVE via Zoom, but will be recorded and made available to you to catch up on if you cannot attend live.

Pricing Options

  • Full 6-Week Course: £305 per person

  • 4-Week Option: £210 per person (first 4 weeks only)

  • 2-Week Option: £125 per person (Available exclusively to TDTS members)

What You'll Learn

The Modules

Module 1: Basic Dog Development/Biology ( 1.5 hrs)

This initial module will explore the biology, development, and nutrition of dogs, from newborn puppies to adults. We will cover essential concepts related to growth, biology, and normal behaviours, enabling you to confidently identify these characteristics in the dogs you work with.

Module 2: Indepth Body Language (3hrs)

This module covers the basics of all five canine senses, vocal communication, and full-body language with examples and videos, helping you assess normal behaviour as well as recognise signs of aggressive or defensive body language.

Module 3: Canine First Aid

This course provides immediate access to an Online Canine First Aid course created and presented by a practising veterinarian, specifically designed for individuals working in the dog industry. You can work through this at your own pace, it will be accessible for 24 months.

Module 4: Learning Theory (1.5 hrs)

In this module, we will discuss the fundamentals of motivating your canine learner. We will explore how to encourage desired behaviours, how to reduce unwanted behaviours, and the appropriate timing and placement of your cues. You will gain confidence in teaching basic behaviours to happy dogs and be prepared to build upon that foundational knowledge.

Module 5: Canine and Human Learning Theory ( 2 hrs)

Dig deeper into teaching dogs, and optimise your experience teaching humans. We’ll cover the practicalities of how to use canine teaching methods from the previous module on learning theory, plus more! We use the veterinary medicine model of teaching new skills to humans to help you understand when learning has happened. You’ll find additional resources in the TDTS members' area in addition to what is available in the module, so you’ll end up feeling comfortable with the practical aspects of teaching basic behaviours to dogs and their humans.

Module 6: Training Basics (2 hrs)

Get into the ins and outs of teaching foundation behaviours! Learn about fluency of behaviours and how you can get the perfect sit anywhere. This module will cover those basics that every dog owner wants and make sure you can understand how to execute them well.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

  • Dog Trainers

  • Groomers

  • Veterinary Technicians

  • Dog Walkers

  • Kennel Staff

  • Rescue and Shelter Workers

  • Pet Sitters

  • Day Care Staff

  • Anyone passionate about dogs and seeking to deepen their understanding

Meet Your Course Presenters:

Lee Hobbs TDTS Co-Founder (UK)

Lee is a highly experienced dog trainer with over 15 years of running his own successful dog training business. Known for his relaxed, down-to-earth teaching style and relationship-focused approach,

Lee has helped countless dog owners and trainers build stronger, more connected partnerships with their dogs.

In his previous role, Lee assessed and instructed thousands of positive reinforcement-based dog trainers across the UK, earning a reputation for making training both accessible and impactful. As co-founder of The Dog Trainer School, Lee is passionate about supporting the next generation of trainers, helping them grow in confidence and skill through practical, real-world learning.

Alongside his work at The Dog Trainer School, Lee continues to run his thriving local business, where he works with 1:2:1 clients and delivers a wide range of training classes. Whether he’s working with puppies, reactive dogs, or nervous owners, Lee’s calm, honest, and thoughtful approach makes him a trusted mentor and respected voice in the dog training community.

Adrienne Wisok, MS, CVT, KPA-CTP (USA)

Adrienne is a veterinary technician and experienced dog trainer with over 23 years in search and rescue (SAR) and canine behaviour. After earning her Bachelor of Science in molecular biology and becoming a certified veterinary technician, Adrienne pursued her passion for SAR, certifying her first dog in a wilderness air scent search in 2001. She later earned a master’s in neuroscience from UCLA and another in service dog training from Bergin University, where she also served as interim Dean. Co-founder of K9 Translations in Michigan, Adrienne teaches courses in scent detection and SAR sports, focusing on inclusivity for reactive dogs.

Why Choose This Course?

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

  • Flexible Learning: Evening sessions to accommodate working professionals.

  • Expert Instructors: Learn from seasoned professionals in the field.

  • Practical Application: Real-world scenarios to apply your learning immediately.

Ready to Enhance Your Canine Knowledge?

Join fellow professionals in elevating your understanding and skills in the dog care industry.

Have Questions?

We're here to help! Reach out to us at info@thedogtrainerschool.co.uk for any inquiries or further information.