This isn’t just a course - it’s a complete pathway into the profession. We’ve designed the certification to give you clarity, structure, and full support from day one, with flexible study options and lifetime community access.

Step 1 – Enrol and Get Immediate Access

The moment you join, you’re onboarded into the Smart University - our private online platform. You’ll gain full access to the course dashboard, community, live Q&As, bonus workshops and specialist topic threads. You can begin working through the certification modules right away - before, during or after your workshop.

You’ll also receive a welcome kit and join the Smart Trainers group chat so you’re never learning in isolation.

Step 2 – Attend the 4-Day Practical Workshop

Your hands-on training takes place over four focused days, delivered at one of our UK venues. You’ll attend daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, working with real dogs and learning how to train, communicate, and coach with precision. You’ll be taught in small groups by senior Smart instructors, with direct feedback and peer collaboration throughout.

This is where you put theory into action and begin to operate like a true professional.

Step 3 – Complete the Online Curriculum

The full online certification is available from day one and is yours for life. You can complete modules at your own pace, revisiting any lesson or topic as your skills deepen. Each module includes expert video instruction, demos, downloads, and assignments covering obedience, behaviour, communication, client work and business foundations.

The curriculum is built to support you before, during and after the workshop - there’s no single “right” sequence, just consistent forward momentum.

Step 4 – Certify and Launch as a Smart Trainer

Once you’ve completed both the in-person and online components, you’ll be assessed for full certification.

Graduates are awarded the title of Smart Master Dog Trainer (SMDT) and gain full access to operate under the Smart brand. You’ll be listed on the official Smart Dog Training website, complete with your own location-based microsite - showcasing your services, testimonials, pricing, and contact tools.

This operates like a micro-franchise: you’ll receive inbound leads, marketing support, and territory visibility, while maintaining autonomy as a self-employed professional.

You’ll also gain access to the Smart business stack: booking tools, forms, client onboarding systems, and done-for-you marketing campaigns. And for the next 12 months, you’ll be guided through our mentorship programme with weekly live calls, 1-to-1 coaching, and access to the Smart University community.

You’re not just qualified. You’re in business - with everything you need to succeed.