Training establishments

A dog training establishment is a business that trains dogs.

All dog training establishments must register as a Domestic Animal Business with the local council of the municipality they reside in.

Some dog training establishments are also "Approved Training Organisations", under the Domestic Animals Regulations 2015. Dogs who achieve an obedience training certificate from an Approved Training Organisation are eligible for a reduced council registration fee. Currently, the organisations whose dog obedience assessment programs are approved under the Domestic Animals Regulations 2015 are:

• DOGS Victoria
• Australian Association of Professional Dog Trainers Inc
• The Gentle Dog Trainers Association
• Four Paws K9 Training

The program must be conducted by a qualified dog trainer who is a member of one of these organisations.

It is important that anyone thinking about utilising a dog training establishment is familiar with the minimum legal and welfare requirements that establishment is required to meet.

The Code of Practice for the Operation of Dog Training Establishments is mandatory for all registered Domestic Animal Businesses – Training Establishments.