Our training
Our innovative and modern courses offer you a range of possibilities to train as professional dog trainers or behavior trainers for dogs. You have the freedom to choose the training that suits you best.
You can comfortably learn the theoretical aspects from your own home at your own pace. We use webinars and online coaching for this purpose. Depending on the course you choose, you can work on and submit assignments, participate in live online sessions, or opt for practical on-site training days.
Drawing from our experience and understanding the importance of problem-solving in dog training, we’re pleased to introduce our combined “Dog and Behavior Trainer” program since June 2023 (dog trainer private). We provide online guidance for the practical aspects, leading you through the process step by step.
We place emphasis on both individual support and interaction with our students. If you choose to submit assignments, you’ll receive detailed feedback, and we’ll devote as much time as necessary to assist you in applying what you’ve learned. We don’t believe in rushing through things – if you’re truly dedicated to learning and appreciate a friendly learning atmosphere, then please continue reading. We view ourselves as a unique establishment, moving away from mass production and anonymity towards personal support and sustainability. Even after completing the course, we offer ongoing support if you’re interested.
What they say
Training
- Dog Trainer
- Dog Behaviour Consultant
- Practise block
- Exams
- Add ons
- Partner Schools
- Continuing education
Theory and foundational knowledge
HT Basic
Explore the online course “Dog Trainer BASIC” and gain all the essential theoretical foundational knowledge required as a professional dog trainer. We provide a diverse approach to delivering course content through 6 modules, utilizing webinars. These modules encompass both theory in the form of presentations and practical insight through instructional videos.
This course allows you to engage in independent self-study without supervision or assignments. Upon completing each module, there’s an option to undertake a voluntary online quiz to assess your learning progress. Additionally, selected handouts are available for download as helpful PDFs, enhancing the course.
For even more practical experience, you have the opportunity to add the “Dog Trainer Practical Block” to the BASIC course. If you’re aiming for an in-house certification exam, you’ll find further information in the “Examinations” section.
Begin your journey as a dog expert
HT Private
Unlike the GROUP course, the HT Private course provides the opportunity to discuss your assignments confidentially in a 1:1 coaching arrangement with our teaching team. This grants you an exceptionally tailored guidance, honed to your needs. No participation occurs in the Facebook group, allowing you to focus entirely on your personal development.
The PRIVATE course solely differs in this unique support structure from our GROUP course. Otherwise, you can anticipate the same top-tier course content and opportunities for practical depth.
For maximum flexibility, with installment payment, module access is provided monthly upon payment. This allows you to complete the course at your individual pace.
Prerequisites: Minimum age 18
Course format: Online program with supervised assignments
Start date: Anytime
Working with dogs exhibiting problematic behavior
HVB-Basic
Enhance your expertise in training dogs with problematic behavior through our Behaviour Advisor Training! The BASIC Course imparts essential theoretical foundational knowledge and covers all crucial aspects of behaviour advising.
Dive into the realm of online webinars, thoughtfully recorded for your convenience. You can navigate the course at your own pace through self-study, ensuring full flexibility. Additional information can be found in the FAQs linked in the introductory text.
Prerequisites: Minimum age 18
Course title: HVB-Basic
Course format: Online self-study
Start date: Anytime
Course duration: 2 months
Module access: 24 months
Working with dogs exhibiting problematic behavior
HVB-Private
In our Dog Behaviour Trainer PRIVATE course, we build upon the foundational knowledge gained from the BASIC course and guide you into practical application. The course is divided into 3 modules, each addressing different topics. Throughout the course, lasting 1 month per module, we provide 3 online LIVE coaching sessions per module with our instructor team to assist and address your queries.
Immerse yourself in the captivating themes of each module:
M1: Anamnesis Collection and Case Supervisions
M2: Video Analysis and Visual Training, Handling Your Own Cases and Post-discussion
Key course details at a glance:
Prerequisites: Minimum age 18
Course format: Supervised individual coaching
Start date: Anytime
Course duration: 1 month per module
Gain more practical experience for both you and your dog!
3-Day Practical Training Block
Do you want to deepen your acquired knowledge and gain even more practical experience? Then our practical block is just right for you! This intensive program takes place several times a year at fixed times and offers you the opportunity to revisit learning theory over the course of 3 consecutive days, develop training plans, and put them into practice. Furthermore, you can test yourself as a trainer by guiding unfamiliar dog-owner teams and providing individual one-on-one sessions. For even more insights, you’re welcome to observe us trainers at work.
Personal support is important to us, which is why these days take place in very small groups at our Pfötchenhof Pfalz and in the surrounding area. Your dog is welcome, as long as they are seminar-friendly.
Discover the specific content of the practical blocks in our “Dog Trainer” information section on our learning platform.
Practical Block Dates 2024:
June 24-26, 2024
October 23-25, 2024
Time: Approx. 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cost: €495 per block
Achieve the Competence Certificate
Institute Internal Certificate Examination
Since August 1, 2014, a permit is required for working as a dog trainer. With us, you have the opportunity to complete the in-house Pfötchenhof Pfalz final examination. The examination dates are set and provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate your skills. Upon successful completion, you will receive a certificate from Pfötchenhof Pfalz.
The certificate confirms your successful examination, which can be taken either in the presence of a veterinary official or without their presence. With this certificate, you can submit proof according to Section 11 (1), Sentence 1, No. 8 TierSchG to the responsible veterinary office or corresponding authority as evidence of expertise.
Please note that the recognition of the evidence is the responsibility of the relevant authorities of the respective federal state or local authorities.
For further details on the examination regulations and the certificate examination, please click the “Learn More” button.
When and Where Do the Examinations Take Place?
Examination Dates for 2023 and 2024
If you’re considering enrolling for our in-house certification examination, feel free to get in touch with us. We’ll check for available slots on the respective dates and send you a registration form. The examinations take place either on-site at our location or in the nearby vicinity, depending on the number of participants. You can find information about the examination topics and procedures in the sections above under “Institute Internal Certification Examination.”
Examination Dates WITH Veterinary Official 2023:
pls contact us for available spots.
The scheduling for each day will be determined after registration. Depending on the number of participants, the written theoretical examination may take place on the same day or with a one-day offset.
Simply add it to your training!
Additional Services
To enhance your training and tailor it to your needs, we offer various additional services. Here, you have the opportunity to choose from the following options:
Internal Students:
- Extensions
- Online exam preparation
- On-site practical days in blocks
- One-on-one coaching
External Prospects:
- Independent consultation for trainer education
- Support during the start-up phase
- Additional offerings under further education
Simply select the corresponding options using the “Book now” button, and we will get in touch with you. We are at your service to customize your education and guide you on your journey to becoming a dog behaviour trainer. Let us know how we can assist you!
Teamwork and Support!
Explore our partner schools
In our partner schools, you’ll find not only promising words on the website but also real support. We know this for certain because all our partners completed their training and certification with us at Pfötchenhof Pfalz and continue to work closely and transparently with us.
We firmly believe in providing ongoing support for our graduates’ journeys and building a network of positive trainers. They consistently pursue further education and, when needed, can still benefit from our team of instructors to enhance their skills effectively and with qualification.
This section is being expanded gradually, offering dog owners the opportunity to find the right dog training school during relocations or vacations.
We practice what we preach – support, teamwork, and community lie at the heart of our values. And we take pride in that!
Visit our partner schools to learn more about their offerings and services!
Saarbrücken (SL)
Click and Paws
Karolin Zewe, the owner of Click & Paws, is excited to get to know you and your furry companion! Click & Paws is a partner school of Pfötchenhof Pfalz and stands for positive training with your four-legged partner – regardless of size, age, or breed. Whether it’s mental stimulation or relaxed everyday training, Click & Paws offers the perfect options for you and your dog.
The offerings include:
- Personalized training for both human and dog
- Obedience training
- One-on-one sessions for tailored guidance
- Puppy development for an optimal start to your dog’s life
- Fun groups for shared enjoyment and play
- Social walks for relaxed interactions
Reach out to Click & Paws at 0151-74279182 or via email at clickandpaws@outlook.com to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Oberotterbach (RLP)
Die Heldenmühle
The Heldenmühle isn’t just a dog school, but also a training establishment for off-road and trail riding. Julia Gossen, the owner, along with her skilled team, is here to assist you.
The offerings include:
- Personalized one-on-one training for both human and dog
- Group lessons
- Puppy & adolescent dog training
- Engagement courses
- Crossdogging
- Dog & horse interactions
The Heldenmühle is excited to get to know you and your loyal companion. Get in touch with them at 0152-04004154 or via email at julia@heldenmuehle.de to learn more.
Straubing (BY)
Herr Schmeling
The approach of “Herr Schmeling” Dog School is characterized by patience and without pressure, as well as consistency, and above all, the understanding that a dog thrives best when they feel comfortable and accepted in their environment.
The offerings include:
- Personalized one-on-one training
- Training walks
- Training with the long leash
- Mobile dog school
- Crossdogging
- On-site training
Claudia Eckl, the owner, is here for you and your dog. Give her a call at 0176/54937740 to get more information, or pay a visit to the “Herr Schmeling” Dog School.
Breunigweiler (RLP)
Voltztes Vertrauen
Carolin Voltz, the owner, believes that true communication takes place on equal footing. In “Voltztes Vertrauen,” you’ll find a dog school and behavioral counseling based on respect and appreciation.
The offerings include:
- Personalized one-on-one training
- Puppy training (in one-on-one sessions)
- Mobile dog school
- Everyday training
Carolin Voltz also provides behavioral counseling for dogs with specific needs that require support.
Contact Carolin Voltz at carolin-voltz@web.de for more information or visit the “Voltztes Vertrauen” Dog School.
Stay updated!
Additional trainings
Ongoing addtional trainings are of great importance to stay up-to-date in animal training and to develop new perspectives. Instead of getting stuck in the hamster wheel of one’s own training, it is crucial to think outside the box, get inspired by other animal trainers, and seek exchange among colleagues.
Our additional training courses are characterized by a nurturing learning atmosphere where both the dogs and the participants feel comfortable. We ensure that the class sizes are kept small to provide personalized support. Furthermore, the facilities are optimally prepared to ensure that every dog and their human companion arrive relaxed and stress-free. We are happy to take the time for each individual.
Our offerings include national and international workshops with renowned instructors such as Chirag Patel, Eva Bertilsson, Prof. Dr. Eduardo Fernandez, Mike Shikashio, and many others.
Expand your knowledge and horizons – Discover all the detailed information about our international workshops in the Workshops & Events section.
Kickstart Your Journey
Puppy Class Intensive
When your adorable new puppy comes into your life, selecting the right dog school for their puppy class is usually the first step. The registration is done, and you’re all set. However, in our experience, despite good intentions, consistent practice between weekly sessions often falls short due to the whirlwind of puppy-related activities. As dog trainers, we aim to provide comprehensive guidance to the dog owner teams, but we can’t control the home practice routine.
But there’s a game-changing solution! Imagine a condensed, effective puppy training that covers essential skills in just about 5 intensive sessions. This transformative concept came to light when I immersed myself in Chirag Patel’s advanced puppy training. Chirag’s approach revolutionizes teaching by compactly delivering fundamental training over a short period. Inspired, I adapted the approach for our dog school and introduced an intensive course. The results were astounding, validating the effectiveness of this method.
Recognizing that not every trainer can attend weekly sessions, we’re excited to share our discoveries through our online LIVE training. We’re thrilled to guide you on establishing a revolutionary puppy and young dog training curriculum in your dog school.
Instructor: Miri Styppa
Online Duration: 5 sessions, approximately 1.5-2 hours each
Dates: To be announced
Changing Perspectives
Train the Trainer
For dog trainers seeking a dynamic shift in their training approach, our “Train the Trainer” workshop offers an unparalleled experience. Whether you’re keen to actively engage with your own canine companion or to collaborate with Chirag in guiding dog-owner teams, this 1-2 day intensive is tailored for you. With a select number of participants, some accompanied by their dogs, this workshop promises a deep dive into advanced training methodologies.
This immersive workshop spans 2 days, but you also have the flexibility to join for a single day. Participants with dogs, however, are limited to just 5 to ensure a personalized experience. Rest assured, the workshop seamlessly bridges the language gap by offering German translation that harmonizes with the English proceedings.
Led by the renowned Chirag Patel, this workshop promises insights that transcend borders. The idyllic Hotel Kastanienhof in Dannenfels sets the stage for this transformative event.
Key Details:
Instructor: Chirag Patel
Venue: Hotel Kastanienhof in Dannenfels
Date: 22nd and 23rd September 2023, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Investment:
With dog: Fully booked
Without dog: €320
Register now and experience an illuminating workshop that offers an opportunity to deepen your training skills and contribute to the growth of your dog school.
Eva and Chirag in Tandem
Liquid Training - Shaping Training with Fluidity
Get ready for an extraordinary treat as we present a dynamic duo in our upcoming workshop. This time, we are thrilled to feature two exceptional speakers: Eva Bertilsson from Carpe Momentum and Chirag Patel from Domesticated Manners. Over the course of two enlightening days, they will seamlessly blend theory and practice to guide us through the realms of liquid training. It’s a rare opportunity, as we are not only the first German organizers to welcome Eva Bertilsson in 2022, but we’re also excited to have both Eva and Chirag return as a premier double act in 2023.
Beyond a theoretical introduction, this workshop will immerse participants in hands-on activities. Eva and Chirag will provide invaluable support to the dog owner teams, making sure everyone gains practical insights. Limited spots are available for participants with dogs, in line with our preference for cozy, smaller groups.
In this workshop, we will delve into the intricacies of a fluid training style. Beneath what might appear as chaotic lies a bedrock of ABC contingencies, where myriad decisions are made in the blink of an eye, responding to countless variables. What lies beneath the surface? What advantages does a fluid training approach offer, and when might a more structured, linear approach be more fitting? Join us and uncover the answers!
Rest assured, the workshop will be thoughtfully translated into German, preserving the harmony between English and German proceedings.
Key Details:
Instructors: Eva Bertilsson & Chirag Patel
Venue: Hotel Kastanienhof in Dannenfels
Date: 19th and 20th September 2023, 10 AM – 5 PM
Investment:
With dog: €430 (waiting list)
Without dog: €320
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience. Click the “Register now” button below to secure your spot and prepare to witness training techniques unfold with fluidity and finesse.