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.
How Can You Survive (and Thrive) This Conference Season?
Conference season is one of the best times of year for client-based business owners—it’s your chance to learn new skills, connect with peers, and showcase your expertise. Whether you’re headed to industry staples like the list below, preparing ahead will help you make the most of every opportunity. To set you up for success, we’ve put together the Conference Season Survival Guide. It has actionable tips to help you stay organized, build stronger connections, and return home with fresh knowledge and new business leads. Download the guide!
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 who gives credit towards a 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 some of the most popular dog training conferences to attend.
#1 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.
Dates: September 26-28, 2025
Location: Charlotte, NC
#2 Animal Behavior Conference
Hosted by The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, the Animal Behavior Conference is a must-attend for pet professionals.
Dates: April 22-24, 2026
Location: Burlington, VT
#3 IBPSA Forum
This special event is hosted by the International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBSPA). This professional organization is dedicated to supporting the pet care services industry through business resources, staff training, and legislative advocacy. Their membership spans over 10 countries and includes pet boarding and daycare operators, groomers, dog walkers, pet sitters, veterinarians, trainers, and holistic pet care providers—along with their teams.
Dates: September 21 – 23, 2025
Location: Iselin, NJ
#4 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.
Dates: November 5-7, 2025
Location: Richmond, VA
#5 The Dog Behavior Conference
Victoria Stilwell organizes the annual Dog Behavior 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.
Dates: April 17 – 19 2026
Location: Virtual
#6 IACP Annual Educational Conference
The International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) hosts an annual conference for dog trainers. The 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: July 28th – August 1st, 2025
Location: Savannah, GA
#7 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.
Dates: September 26-28, 2025
Location: Toronto, Ontario and Virtual
#8 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.
Dates: June 27, 2025 – June 29, 2025
Location: University of Warwick, UK
#9 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.
Dates: May 17 – 18, 2025
Location: San Francisco, CA or Virtual
#10 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.
Dates: March 8th – March 9th, 2025
Location: Virtual
#11 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!
Dates: March 20 – 22, 2026
Location: Westchester County, NY
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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