In previous years (2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015) we’ve compiled lists of the top 10 conferences and events for professional dog trainers. But this year, we’re providing you with the ultimate list of continuing education opportunities and conferences for dog professionals.  

NOTE: Only conferences that provide updated information online at the time of writing this article are included.

Conferences, seminars and other events are the best way for dog trainers to share tips and solutions with one another, network, further their education, and even make lifelong friendships!

We don’t limit these conferences to domestic pet related conferences since you can learn a lot working with less domesticated species. Working with other species is a great way to improve your understanding of learning theory, management techniques, handling techniques and much more that can be applied to the various situations you can come across working with domestic animals.

Whip out your bookmarking fingers and have a gander at these stellar events.

Clicker Expo

Jan. 10-12, 2020 — Seattle, WA | Mar. 13-15, 2020 — Louisville, KY 

One of the most well-known names in the game, Karen Pryor Academy (KPA), hosts annual Clicker Expos with educational courses on clicker training and behavior modification. Clicker Expo has already sold out both events, but those still interested can join the waitlist for refunded tickets!

The 12th Annual Art & Science of Animal Training Conference

Feb. 22-23, 2020 | Hurst, TX

Though this conference is already sold out, you can put yourself on their waitlist for refunded tickets and the mailing list for the 2021 conference. This science-based event is a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in learning more about behavior analysis and innovative technologies in animal behavior.

Animal Training for Professionals: Across Species

Next event: Mar. 2-6, 2020 | Graham, WA

Another immersive experience from the KPA can be found on “The Ranch” — their national training center in Washington state. The five day course focuses on the skills needed to have a successful career working with animals. As suggested in the name, this course from KPA is not dog-centric and teaches using the animals housed on the ranch for live handling. 

The Dog Gurus Summit

Mar. 25-26, 2020 | Jacksonville, FL

If you’re looking for incredible resources for running a day training or dog daycare practice, the Dog Gurus Summit is the place for you. Learn from trick dog trainer Sara Carson Devine and Dog (and Business) Gurus Robin Bennett, CPDT-KA and Susan Briggs, MA, CPACO about ethical dog daycare and boarding practices, generating sales, and solving behavioral challenges. 

ABMA 2020 Annual Conference

Mar. 29 – Apr. 2, 2020 | Hilvarenbeek, Netherlands

The Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA) is a nonprofit that focuses on behavior management as a core component of animal welfare. The conference is not species specific and takes place at Beekse Bergen this year, a safari park in the Netherlands. Learn about enrichment and positive reinforcement taught in nurturing, non-threatening environments — for animals and people.

Canine Science Symposium

Apr. 4-5, 2020 | San Francisco, CA

Science-based trainers will get an in-depth experience at the Canine Science Symposium hosted at San Francisco State University. The program includes topics like “The dog-human bond: the basics of attachment behavior” and “Canine odor detection: The latest science on the capabilities of the dog’s nose.”

IAABC Animal Behavior Conference

Apr. 23-26, 2020 | Boston, MA

No one does conferences and events for dog trainers like The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). The IAABC hosts an annual animal behavior conference on the topics of advanced behavior, science, training, and community building.

Look forward to topics like “The Importance of Choice in Animal Training” and “The Human Animal: conversations and presentations about how to reach, understand, and offer success to our human clients.”

2020 Working Dog Conference

Apr. 24-27, 2020 | Philadelphia, PA

Trainers of service dogs, conservation dogs, detection dogs and other working dogs will be especially interested in Penn Vet’s 2020 Working Dog Conference. Meet with other trainers, working dog handlers, veterinary professionals and behavior consultants to get to the core of what makes a good working dog.

SPA 2020 Shelter Behavior and Enrichment Conference

May 15-17, 2020 | Golden, CO

Another shelter and welfare focused event, the Shelter Playgroup Alliance (SPA) invites leaders in animal welfare and behavior science to teach progressive techniques to enhance the welfare of dogs in shelters. There will be live demonstrations on managing dog-dog interactions and play groups.

FDSA Dog Sports Training Camp

Jun. 5-7, 2020 | Albany, OR

Any dog sports enthusiast will perk up when they hear about Fenzi Dog Sports Academy (FDSA). Those looking for an immersive experience to learn about dog sports training using progressive training methods will fit right in at the FDSA Dog Sports Training Camp. Denise Fenzi herself, among a talented group of other professionals, will be speaking and instructing throughout the event.

PPG 2020 Annual Summit

Sep. 18-22, 2020 | Tempe, AZ

Force and Fear Free experts at the Pet Professional Guild host an annual summit on cooperative care and force free training for animals. This event has a focus on animal welfare and the care for and enrichment of animals in shelters. 

Aggression in Dogs Conference

Oct. 2-4, 2020 | Providence, RI (Tickets go on sale 01/01/2020)

Aggression is one of the top reasons that owners seek out dog trainers, and the Aggression in Dogs conference aims to shed light on the difficulties you may face with an aggression client.

Speakers with backgrounds in veterinary behavior, applied ethology, and applied animal behavior will provide insight on getting to the root causes of an aggressive response and safe, cooperative solutions. 

Assistance Dogs International 2020

Oct. 3-6, 2020 | Split, Croatia

Service dog trainers and evaluators can look forward to enjoying a weekend abroad because Assistance Dogs International (ADI) is taking their annual conference to Split, Croatia. Learn more about the powerful ways assistance dogs are able to impact the lives of their handlers and how dogs help heal us.

APDT 2020 Conference

Oct. 21-24, 2020 | Cincinnati, OH / Northern KY

The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) hosts an annual conference that’s returning in October of 2020.  The program and schedule have yet to be released, but the APDT proves time and time over to be a solid conferences with incredible resources. Check out their online forum to find someone to share a room with to cut down on travel costs!

Stay up to date with the latest dog training business tips and resources!

Subscribe with the form below and join our Facebook group: Business Support by The Modern Dog Trainer.