Dog Tribe Academy
Coming Soon!
Dog Tribe Academy is currently applying for authorization from the Illinois Board of Higher Education’s Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools (IBHE-PBVS).
Meanwhile, we are continuing to develop our curriculum, facilities, and hands-on educational experience. Dog Tribe Academy is not yet approved, accepting enrollments, or offering vocational instruction. Program availability and start dates are contingent upon receiving all required approvals.
Prospective students may still join our waitlist to receive Academy updates and be among the first to learn when applications and enrollment officially open.
Join the waitlist and stay tuned for updates.
7/24/26
You won’t spend the entire program sitting in a classroom. You’ll work alongside experienced trainers, assist with real dogs, observe client sessions, and develop practical handling skills across obedience, behavior modification, puppy development, scent work, and protection sports.
Hands-On Training Experience
Dog training is more than learning techniques—it requires judgment, timing, communication, and accountability. Our instructors will coach you through the training process, challenge your decision-making, and help you understand not only what to do, but why it works.
Mentorship That Builds Trainers
Dog Tribe Academy operates inside a 45,000-square-foot professional dog-training campus that includes Found Chicago, Pup Start Chicago, and the Dog Tribe Training Hall. Students gain exposure to real clients, active training programs, experienced teams, and the daily operations of a successful canine business.
Train Inside a Working Facility
Dog Tribe Academy Process
Step 1: Apply
Dog Tribe Academy is designed for individuals who are serious about developing the skills, discipline, and professionalism required for a career in dog training and canine care.
The admissions process begins with an online application. We review each applicant’s background, goals, experience, availability, and readiness for a demanding, hands-on learning environment. Candidates who appear to be a strong fit will be invited to continue to the interview stage.
Admission is selective. We are looking for applicants who demonstrate maturity, accountability, curiosity, a strong work ethic, and a genuine commitment to working with dogs and people.
Step 2: Interview
Applicants who advance beyond the initial review will be invited to a one-on-one interview. This conversation allows us to look beyond the application and better understand your goals, mindset, experience, and readiness for growth.
Students will schedule an in-person tour of the Dog Tribe Academy campus. Tours may be scheduled on a weekday or weekend, depending on availability. During the tour, students will be introduced to the campus, training departments, lodging options, local neighborhood, and surrounding area so they feel comfortable and prepared before beginning the program.
Step 3: Acceptance & Enrollment
Accepted applicants will receive an official admissions decision along with instructions for enrollment, tuition, scheduling, and pre-arrival preparation.
Once enrolled, students gain access to the Academy’s online portal, where they can review program requirements, complete preliminary coursework, select available training dates, and prepare for the on-campus experience.
Before arriving, students begin the Dog Tribe Academy Tech 1 curriculum. This foundational coursework introduces essential concepts in canine care, handling, communication, safety, and training so students arrive prepared to participate in a professional working environment.
Enrollment is not simply a reservation - it marks the beginning of your development as a trainer.
Step 4: Attend the Academy
The on-campus experience takes place inside Dog Tribe Academy’s 45,000-square-foot Chicago training campus. Students learn alongside experienced professionals while gaining exposure to puppy development, pet obedience, behavior modification, working dogs, client communication, canine care, and facility operations.
The program combines classroom instruction, demonstrations, observation, guided practice, written assessments, practical evaluations, and direct participation in active training programs. Students must complete required academic, husbandry, observation, and hands-on training hours.
Each student receives ongoing coaching, feedback, and performance evaluations throughout the program. Progress is based on demonstrated competency—not attendance alone.
Graduation and certification require measurable growth, professionalism, initiative, safe handling, sound judgment, and the ability to apply training concepts in real-world situations.
