This course gives you the foundation to train dogs for professional therapy and assistance work in New Zealand. You will learn how to read dog behaviour, teach specific tasks, and understand the ethics and laws relevant to working in Kiwi communities.
This course gives you the foundation to train dogs for professional therapy and assistance work in New Zealand. You will learn how to read dog behaviour, teach specific tasks, and understand the ethics and laws relevant to working in Kiwi communities.
Certificate in Therapy & Assistance Dog Training NZ
Confused about the difference between therapy, assistance, and support dogs in New Zealand?
Unsure about the specific laws, rights, and ethical duties for working dogs and their handlers here?
You love dogs and want to help people, but need a structured way to learn the right training skills.
Completing this course could open doors to roles across New Zealand. Here are some directions graduates may explore.
These are possible career directions only. No specific career outcome is guaranteed. Actual opportunities depend on your experience, location, and the current job market.
Certificate in Therapy & Assistance Dog Training NZ
From first principles to professional practice.
All 50 lessons across 5 modules, available from day one.
An AI tutor trained on your course material, available 24/7 to answer your questions and check your understanding.
Every lesson as written text, narrated audio, visual slides, video, and AI tutor chat. Learn the way that suits you.
Your certificate is endorsed by ICOES, the International Council for Online Educational Standards.
Earn CPD points that count toward your professional development and show employers you are keeping your skills current.
Content written specifically for New Zealand, covering the standards and conditions that apply here.
100% online on any device, with 24/7 access and self-paced study. No fixed schedule, no classrooms, no deadlines.
Start from scratch. No prior experience or qualifications required, and a full 12 months to finish at your own pace.
“First lesson was fantastic, very insightful and easy to follow. Excellent modules to follow along with — really enjoying the course.”
“It was an amazing refresher for me. And I am so happy to be able to keep going with my studying.”
“Easy to understand, yet well detailed. The subject matter is spot on — not too much, but still very in depth.”
“I enjoyed the slides, they were very helpful. First lesson was very good.”
Start Your First Lesson Free
🛡️ 14-day money-back guarantee
Everything you need to get started
28 weekly payments · $700 total
💳 Visa, Mastercard, Amex & Afterpay · 🛡️ 14-day money-back guarantee
Try the course, explore the AI tutor, work through the first lessons. If it's not for you within 14 days, we'll refund you in full.*
A different approach
Every lesson comes in five formats: text, audio, video, slides, and an AI tutor chat. Your personal tutor is always there to answer questions, explain ideas, and help you understand the material better.
Video lessons, audio, and written content. Choose how you learn best
Phone, tablet, or desktop. No fixed schedule, no classrooms.
ICOES and CPD endorsed Certificate upon completion.
Unlike other online courses where you're left reading slides alone, every lesson comes with an AI tutor built in. It explains concepts in plain language, answers your follow-up questions, quizzes you to check understanding, and walks you through real scenarios.
No waiting for a cohort or start date. Pick your payment option and get instant access to all 50 lessons.
Work through lessons on your phone, tablet, or desktop, whenever suits you. Your AI tutor is there on every lesson to answer questions and check your understanding.
Complete the course and receive your ICOES-endorsed Certificate, plus the skills and confidence to start working.
“It was very clear and to the point. Clear information and easy to follow.”
“The different learning options has assisted me to retain information better.”
“I love the modules — it is explained in detail so it is easy to understand.”
“I acquired lots of new knowledge and gained new skills.”
“The ability to download material and read at my own pace.”
“The video clips were the best part of the course.”
The Certificate in Therapy & Assistance Dog Training NZ is designed for Kiwis who want to train dogs to help people. This online course provides a strong foundation in dog behaviour, positive reinforcement, and the specialised skills needed for these important roles. You will learn the clear differences between a therapy dog that provides comfort and an assistance dog trained to perform specific tasks. The course covers how to prepare a dog for working in public spaces like schools or hospitals, an overview of New Zealand's laws, and the ethical responsibilities of a handler. Every lesson is delivered with text, audio, video, and your own AI tutor, so you can learn in the way that suits you best. It is a great starting point for a career helping others or for volunteering in your community. On completion, you will receive an ICOES-endorsed Certificate from Modern Education New Zealand.
Enrol in Certificate in Therapy & Assistance Dog Training NZ and join students across New Zealand who are building real skills, earning a real certificate, and starting careers they love.
From $25 per week · or $559 upfront (save $140) · 🛡️ 14-day money-back guarantee