Dog Walking Certification is now entirely online!

Learn from the best-certified dog trainers and walkers in the business who were one of the first to initially develop the standards and requirements for dog walking. Since 2004, Top Dog SF has promoted positive reinforcement dog training and handling. We teach humans and dogs with a modern science-based approach, and we know this works.

Dog Walking Certification
Dog Walking Certification
Dog Walking Certification

So you are thinking of becoming a dog walker?

You should! The job is amazing! Come get certified with us!!

Are you looking for a career change? Do you love dogs? Do you want to be your own boss and set your schedule? Then this program is for you! We know your time is limited and valuable — our online program makes it easy! Sign up to become a Certified Dog Walker!

Top Dog SF University offers a 20-Hour Online Dog Walker Certification endorsed by San Francisco’s Animal Care and Control and the GGNRA to satisfy the San Francisco’s commercial dog walking legislation. Top Dog SF University was developed and is taught by SPCA Certified Trainer & Counselor Natalie Tondelli-Walsh. The Top Dog SF Dog Walker University was designed to help educate professional dog sitters and walkers.

Step 1: Review our online video lessons for the dog walker certification course on your schedule.

Step 2: After revising the Study Slides, take the Online Exam at your own pace. 

Step 3: Complete the Online Pet First Aid and CPR Training that is included in the price of Dog Walker University, and this certification is good for two years.

Step 4: Receive your Top Dog SF Dog Walking Certificate that is good for life!

The Top Dog SF Dog Walker University was designed to help educate professional dog sitters and walkers with Science-Based dog training and handling techniques to control groups of dogs on and off leash effectively, safely, and successfully in real-life applications.

The Top Dog SF Dog Walker University will show you how to:
  • Read dog body language
  • Appropriate dog park etiquette
  • How to walk your dogs safely while sharing the park with the public
  • How to get the behaviors you want out of your dog walking clients (both human and dogs!) 
  • How to pair dog walking clients for group dog walks
  • Dog fight prevention
  • How to transport dogs safely
  • How to use positive reinforcement in the field
  • and loads of industry tips, including how to have fun and do what you love!

New in 2024: Top Dog SF offers online one-on-one business coaching to help you thrive in your business and to give you the tools to run a successful dog walking business. Topic areas include marketing, staff training, business operations, and recommendations for vendors and suppliers based on experience in the industry.

Initial intake sessions are 1-hour long and are $150. Additional sessions are offered at a discount. Successful Top Dog SF Dog Walker University graduates receive a free 30-minute phone call within one month of the program’s completion. Email here to get started.  

Dog Walking Certification
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