As a dog trainer, you’re used to working solo. But you don’t have to navigate this industry alone. You can connect with other dog trainers, learn from industry experts, and earn points toward a dog training certification by attending a dog trainer conference.
Which one?
Keep reading. We compiled a list of the top dog trainer conferences.
Which Dog Trainer Conferences Should I Attend?
There are dozens of conferences for dog trainers annually, each focusing on a different specialty or topic. You might choose to go to a conference because the keynote speaker is a dog behaviorist or one that gives credit towards an IAABC certification. Either way, these conferences are informative and convenient.
Usually, you can earn continuing education credits (CEUs) towards your dog training certification by attending a conference. And most conferences let you rewatch the presentations if you can’t attend in person. But only a few allow you to bring your own pets (bummer!)
Here are nine popular dog training conferences to attend.
#1 ADPT
The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (ADPT) has hosted this prestigious annual conference for the past 30 years.
If you attend, you’ll hear from many dog training experts. There will also be workshops and a demo area to watch pros show off training methods in person.
You can earn up to 30 CEUs (from IAABC, CCPDT, and others) by attending the ADPT conference. [Available credits may vary from year to year].
Dates: September 18-20, 2024
Cost: Non-members pay $650. Members, students, veterans, and shelter volunteers have special rates.
Location: Riverside, CA
#2 The Dog Behavior Conference
Victoria Stilwell organizes the annual Dog Behaviour Conference. Dog professionals and dog lovers alike will learn about animal behavior and training techniques from experts and thought leaders. It’s a must-see for an aspiring dog behaviorist.
The conference aims to teach trainers how to make a positive change in a dog’s life.
Attendees can earn 18-20 CEUs from IAABC, CCPDT, PPAB, and VSA. [Available credits may vary from year to year].
Dates: April 19- April 21 2024
Cost: $185
Location: Virtual
#3 IACP Annual Educational Conference
The International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) hosts an annual conference for dog trainers. The four-day conference features a mix of dog business , lifestyle, science, and behavior speakers and concludes with a gala dinner and award show.
The IACP started in the US and has expanded to other countries. They offer certificate programs, promote high standards in trainers and provide members with resources to advance their careers. The IACP also hosts a European version of this conference.
Dates: September 4th – September 7th
Cost: TBD
Location: Fort Worth, TX
#4 Dogs and The City
This conference, hosted by Educanine, will focus on the challenges of city life for dogs and unique methods to resolve these issues. You’ll hear from dog training experts, including
Dates: September 27-29, 2024
Cost: $565
Location: Toronto, Ontario
#5 International Working Dog Conference
The International Working Dog Association (IWDS) organized this conference for industry professionals that train detection, military, guide, and service dogs.
You’ll learn about scientific advancements and best practices in the working dog space, including:
- Training
- Health care and management
- Performance and temperament assessments
- Breeding
There will also be a breeders workshop that can be attended for an additional $400. IWDS members get a 10% discount on the conference.
Dates: June 27, 2025 – June 29, 2025
Cost: TBD
Location: University of Warwick
#6 Aggression in Dogs Conference
This event, hosted by Aggressive Dog, brings together many of the world’s leading experts on training aggressive dogs.
The fourth annual conference will provide the training community with relevant research and methods to aid aggressive dogs. You’ll get to network with other dog trainers, hear valuable presentations, and even attend a cocktail party.
Continuing Education Credits will be available for both the in-person and livestream events, but the number of CEUs is still pending. [Available credits may vary from year to year].
Dates: October 11-13, 2024
Cost: $199 – $645
Location: Scottsdale, AZ
#7 Canine Science Symposium
The Canine Science Symposium is a research and science-intensive event for dog trainers and animal behavior enthusiasts. You can learn from top researchers about:
- The dynamic between wolves, pets, and free-ranging dogs
- Dog sheltering
- Dog moods, motivation and learning
- Prong and shock collars
- Building trust with dogs, and much more!
Grad students also have an opportunity to participate and showcase their work at the symposium through the emerging scientist sessions.
You may be able to earn CEUs for attending this conference, but the amount is still pending. [Available credits may vary from year to year].
Dates: May 18 & 19, 2024
Cost: $469
Location: San Francisco State University or Virtual
#8 Modern and Ethical Training (MET) Conference
The MET is an international virtual dog training conference. For the past three years, dog trainers from around the world have come together to share their expertise. Over two days, you get professional advice from six or more expert trainers. Past speakers include Michael Shikashio and Jean Donaldson.
Dog trainers can earn up to 18.5 CEUs towards CCPDT and IAABC certifications by attending this event.[Available credits may vary from year to year].
Dates: March 8th – March 9th, 2025
Cost: Unknown – The 2022 conference cost of attendance was $128.
Location: Virtual
#9 Clicker Expo
The ClickerExpo, hosted by the Karen Pryor Academy, explores fundamental principles and best practices in the dog training space. With a mix of courses, demos, presentation sessions, panels, and informal Q&As with some of your favorite trainers, you’re sure to have an invaluable experience.
The best part is that you can bring your dog!
By attending this event, you can earn up to 30 CEUs from CCPDT, IAABC, Karen Pryor Academy, and AAVSB. [Available credits may vary from year to year].
Dates: March 14 – 16, 2025
Cost: Unknown
Location: Chicago, IL
Register Today!
Dog trainer conferences offer a wealth of information and opportunities to grow your business. You get to learn from the best while making connections with your peers. Who knows? You might be a keynote speaker one day. At the very least, you’ll learn new techniques to help your clients.
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