Welcome to the DogNostics Dog Trainer Certificate Program

Hello and a warm welcome!

I am delighted to welcome you to the DogNostics Dog Trainer Certificate Program. My name is Louise Stapleton-Frappell, and I will be your instructor and guide throughout your journey. I have a deep passion for helping dogs and the people who care for them thrive together, and I'm equally passionate about equipping trainers with the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to excel in their professional careers.

This program has been carefully designed to provide a comprehensive education in both the science and practical application of modern, force-free dog training. Whether you are just beginning your professional journey or building upon existing experience, you'll find a structured, engaging, and supportive pathway toward professional certification.

About the Program

The DogNostics Dog Trainer Instructor program is divided into three progressive levels:

• Apprentice
• Journeyman
• Master

Each course consists of six modules, and every module includes:

• Engaging lessons
• Supportive documentation
• E-learning videos and skill demonstrations
• Fun and practical homework assignments that let you apply and test what you’ve learned

Each module builds on the last, and each level builds on the one before, ensuring a strong foundation and steady progression.

As you move through the program, you will:

• Gain certificates of attendance at each level (Apprentice, Journeyman, Master)
• Receive personalized feedback on your skill submissions
• Join a supportive learning community in the DogNostics Student Common Room on Facebook
• Develop both your knowledge and your hands-on training skills.

On successful completion of all three levels, you’ll be eligible to take the final online exam and submit your final skill video assessment. Passing this final stage earns you the DogNostics Dog Trainer Certificate and the right to proudly use the credential DN-DTC after your name.

Flexibility & Access

• You can begin as soon as you enrol. Students on the monthly subscription receive one module every 30 days, while those who pay in full gain access to all modules right away.
• You have 18 months to complete the program, and you can learn at your own pace within that timeframe.
• Coursework is delivered through a blend of written lessons, video and audio recordings, supporting documentation, supplementary resources, online knowledge assessments, and practical skill submissions.
• You’ll be supported every step of the way with direct instructor contact, feedback, and a positive, encouraging student community.

Meet Some of My Family

As you progress through the DogNostics Dog Trainer Certificate Program, you'll become familiar with two very special dogs - Tessa and Jambo, who are pictured with me in the welcome graphic above and feature throughout much of the practical content you'll study.

Tessa, my German Shepherd, and Jambo, my Staffordshire Bull Terrier, were far more than my companions. They were my training partners, my teachers, and an integral part of the development of this program.

Together, they were instrumental in developing many of the practical skills, demonstrations, and educational resources you'll encounter throughout the program.

Although Tessa and Jambo are no longer with me, their legacy continues through the knowledge they helped me share. Every demonstration reflects the trust, communication, and partnership we built together, and I hope you'll enjoy learning alongside them as you work through the program.

The DogNostics Dog Trainer Certificate Program continues to evolve, and you'll also meet the newest member of my canine family, Jessam, who is beginning to feature in some of the more recently developed course content.

Meet Jessam

Jessam is the newest member of my family and my current training partner.

While much of the DogNostics Dog Trainer Certificate Program was developed alongside Tessa and Jambo, Jessam is now helping shape the future of DogNostics Education. As new lessons are developed and existing content is updated, you'll see him featured in an increasing number of practical demonstrations and training examples.

Your Learning Experience

This program is designed to be interactive, enjoyable, and highly practical. From the very beginning, you’ll be developing real-world training skills, supported by clear scientific knowledge and ethical training principles. Whether you’re working with your own dog, a client’s dog, or a shelter dog, you’ll find that each assignment brings valuable experience and confidence.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on this program is a meaningful step; whether you are preparing for a career as a professional dog trainer or looking to deepen and expand the knowledge and skills you already use in your work. I’m so excited to see the progress you’ll make and the positive impact you’ll have on the dogs and people you work with!

Welcome to the program - and welcome to the DogNostics family!