Continuing Education and Professional Development

Keeping up with the latest in dog behaviour and training isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must! 

In order to maintain my credentials and professional standing, I regularly take courses, attend workshops, and engage in continuing education. 

I’m required to. But honestly? I’d do it anyway!

I'm curious, and learning is at the heart of what I do. 

The fields of dog behaviour, training, and wellbeing are always evolving, and I'm committed to staying at the forefront of science-based, ethical practices. This commitment to ongoing education means you're always working with someone who uses the most current, effective, and humane methods available.

Because dog training is an unregulated industry, not all professionals are held to the same standards. When choosing a trainer or behaviour consultant, ask about their education - anyone truly dedicated to this work should be enthusiastic and proud to share their learning journey.

Here's a look at my continuing education:

Online Courses

(Comprehensive, in-depth learning with structured coursework)

These intensive courses allow me to dive deep into specific topics - from canine fitness, advanced bodywork, nutrition, to fear and anxiety - often with ongoing mentorship from world-leading experts.

  • Art & Science of Nerves - Lisa Ruthig and Power of Touch
  • ACE Module One - Sarah Fisher & Animal Centred Education
  • It's All Connected: Modern Loose Leash Walking - Kiki Yablon & Karen Pryor Academy
  • But First, Fun: Cooperative Care Training - Sara McLoudrey & Karen Pryor Academy
  • Boom, Bang: Solutions for Sound Sensitivities - Debbie Martin & Karen Pryor Academy
  • Safe Spaces for Anxious or Fearful Learners - Ellen Yoakum & Karen Pryor Academy
  • Raw Feeding Masterclass - Dr. Conor Brady
  • ACE Dog Detective - Sarah Fisher & Animal Centred Education
  • L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation - Kim Brophey, Family Dog Mediation Education
  • The Hip Dysplasia Mini Course - Leslie Eide, The Total Canine
  • Enrichment Framework for Behaviour Modification Masterclass - Pet Harmony
  • Role of Nutrition on the Behaviour of Dogs - Dr. Conor Brady
  • Fitness Connections -  Leslie Eide, The Total Canine
  • Progression Stagnation -  Leslie Eide, The Total Canine
  • Advanced Taping Applications - Christa Veinotte
  • The Shoulder Injury Mini Course -  Leslie Eide, The Total Canine
  • RockTape FMT Canine Kinesiology Taping - Northeast Seminars & RockTape
  • Masters Class in Canine Nutrition - Linda Case, The Science Dog
  • CAM Advocate Level 1 - Hannah Capon, Canine Arthritis Management 
  • Better Veterinary Visits - Karen Pryor Academy
  • The Natural Dog Health Masterclass - Health Masters Live
  • Dog Trainer Foundations - Karen Pryor Academy

Seminars, Workshops & Conferences

(In-person learning from leading experts)

Attending conferences and workshops gives me the opportunity to learn directly from international experts, network with fellow professionals, and stay connected to the broader dog training and behaviour community.

  • APDT Australia Conference 2025 - Dr Amber Batson, Peta Clarke, Chirag Patel, Laura Ryder and others
  • APDT Australia Conference 2023 - Dr. Conor Brady, Sarah Fisher, Susan Friedman PhD, Diane Garrod, Dr. Matthew Muir, Dr. Chris Pachel and others
  • Aggression in Dogs and Defensive Handling - Michael Shikashio, Aggressive Dog
  • APDT NZ Conference 2022 - Michael Shikashio, Aggressive Dog
  • Aggression in Dogs: Defensive Handling & Training - Michael Shikashio & Trish McMillan
  • APDT NZ Conference 2019 - Ken Ramirez
  • Hidden Potential - Sarah Stremming, The Cognitive Canine
  • Clarity Rules - Sarah Stremming, The Cognitive Canine
  • Coaching the Canine Athlete - Chris Zink
  • Jumping Gymnastics - Leslie Eide, The Total Canine & Sarah Stremming, The Cognitive Canine
  • Rehab Professionals & Sports Medicine - Leslie Eide, The Total Canine
  • Worked Up! - Sarah Stremming, The Cognitive Canine
  • TTouch Workshop for Dogs - Robyn Hood

Webinars & Live Classes

(Ongoing learning from trusted industry sources)

I regularly attend live webinars, masterclasses, and continuing education sessions through leading organisations including:

  • Pet Harmony
  • HeartDog (Janet Finlay & Michelle Dart)
  • Aggressive Dog (Michael Shikashio)
  • Karen Pryor Academy
  • Grisha Stewart
  • Fear Free
  • Fenzi Dog Sports Academy (FDSA)
  • Dogs 4 Motion

This ongoing education ensures I'm always current with the latest research, techniques, and best practices in canine training, behaviour, and wellbeing.

Have questions about any of these courses or how they inform my work with your dog? I'd love to hear from you - annie@yourwholedog.co.nz

 

Your Whole Dog

Cooperative care. Fitness. Enrichment. Massage.

Helping you make your dog's day better