The Global Leader in Canine Education
For more than a decade, the School for Dog Trainers at
Highland Canine Training, LLC has been providing
students the opportunity to learn from a proven curricu-
lum that has led to developing industry leading trainers
across the globe.
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2023-2024
vOLUME 01 - nUMBER 01
Published March 15, 2023
Effective April 1, 2023
Program Catalog 2023-2024, Volume 01, Number 01 – Hill Country Campus
lum that has led to developing industry leading trainers
across the globe.
Special Notice
The statements set forth in this catalog are for information purposes only and should not be construed as the
basis of a contract between students and Highland Canine Training, LLC.
While the provisions of this catalog will generally be applied as stated, Highland Canine Training, LLC reserves
the right to revise all terms, provisions, policies, requirements, and procedures contained in this catalog. Every
effort will be made to keep students advised of any such changes. Information on changes will be available in
the Offices of the Registrar. It is especially important that students note that it is their responsibility to remain
apprised of current requirements for their particular programs and to understand that they will be bound by
and must comply with all terms, provisions, policies, requirements, and procedures contained in this catalog.
Highland Canine Training, LLC is an affirmative action/equal opportunity education institution and does not
discriminate based on an individual’s race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,
religion, age, veteran status, ancestry, or any other legally protected classification in employment, admissions,
or activities.
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................1
Mission Statement ....................................................................1
History ......................................................................................1
THE GLOBAL LEADER IN CANINE EDUCATION ...............................1
Location and Facilities ..............................................................2
Comprehensive Programs ........................................................2
Curriculum Development ..........................................................3
Experienced Instructors ............................................................3
APPROVALS AND MEMBERSHIPS ..................................................6
State Approvals ........................................................................6
Professional Memberships .......................................................6
FINANCIAL INFORMATION...........................................................7
Tuition & Fees ..........................................................................7
Payment....................................................................................7
Cancellation Policy.....................................................................8
Refund Policies.........................................................................8
FINANCING OPTIONS..................................................................10
Financing.................................................................................10
ADMISSION PROCEDURES/ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS ..........11
Criminal Background Conditions for Admissions ....................11
Physical Requirements ...........................................................11
Inherent Risks .........................................................................12
English Language Proficiency ................................................12
Transfer Credits ......................................................................12
Applying for Admission ...........................................................12
Registration ............................................................................13
Enrollment...............................................................................13
PROGRAMS OF STUDY ................................................................14
Obedience & Behavior Modification Professional ...................15
Service Dog Trainer ...............................................................16
CLASS DESCRIPTIONS & LENGTH ................................................17
ACADEMIC POLICIES ..................................................................24
Academic Information..............................................................24
Academic Standards and Grading ..........................................24
Standards for Satisfactory Progress .......................................25
Graduation Requirements ......................................................25
Suspension for Unsatisfactory Grades or Progress ...............25
Attendance Policy ...................................................................25
Clock Hours ............................................................................25
Leave of Absence ...................................................................26
Program Repetitions ...............................................................26
Incompletes ............................................................................26
Withdrawal from a Program ....................................................26
Reinstatement to a Program ...................................................26
Conditions for Dismissal .........................................................26
Student Records......................................................................26
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act 1974................27
Honors and Awards.................................................................28
RULES & REGULATIONS ..............................................................29
Student Code of Conduct .......................................................29
Drugs/Alcohol .........................................................................29
Unprofessional Behavior ........................................................29
Attitude ....................................................................................29
Dress Code Policy ..................................................................29
Hair Policy ..............................................................................30
Student Complaint/Grievance Procedure ...............................30
2023 SCHOOL CALENDAR ..........................................................32
2024 SCHOOL CALENDAR ..........................................................33
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Hill Country CAMPUS
Program Catalog 2023-2024, Volume 01, Number 01 – Hill Country Campus
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MISSION STATEMENT
As an international provider of premier educational programs for students seeking to further their knowledge of dog
training techniques and methods, we provide the knowledge and skills required to become successful,
professional dog trainers.
HISTORY
Highland Canine Training, LLC was founded in 2006, as a full-service dog training facility in North Carolina. We offer
a variety of dog training programs and courses through our School for Dog Trainers, obedience and behavior
modification programs, service dog sales and training, police K-9 sales and training, protection dog sales and
training, search and rescue dog training, as well as program offerings in specialty areas. Our School for Dog
Trainers started offering programs in 2006 and that same year, hosted its first international student from Tokyo,
Japan. Since, we have offered programs that have been sought out by industry professionals across the globe.
Based on considerable demand from our alumni and prospective students, in 2013 we developed our Service Dog
Trainer Program and our Master Dog Trainer Program. In 2019, we held our 50
th
class at our school.
Proudly, in 2022, we opened our Hill Country Campus of the School for Dog Trainers at Highland Canine Training,
LLC In Texas. Our Hill Country Campus offers the same quality instruction, proven curriculum, and knowledgeable
instructors as our other campuses.
THE GLOBAL LEADER IN CANINE EDUCATION
For more than a decade, the School for Dog Trainers at Highland Canine Training, LLC has been providing
students the opportunity to learn from a proven curriculum that has led to developing industry leading trainers across
the globe. Over the years, our School for Dog Trainers has hosted students from more than 35 countries. We
offer the most inclusive canine education programs available in the industry today.
Our School for Dog Trainers is unique in that we teach you a variety of ways to accomplish a task or skill with dogs.
We don’t simply teach students one singular method for training dogs. We place an emphasis on understanding
and being able to apply operant conditioning principles as a foundation of becoming a professional dog trainer.
We also focus on teaching students of our School for Dog Trainers other proven techniques of training dogs.
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Program Catalog 2023-2024, Volume 01, Number 01 – Hill Country Campus
LOCATION AND FACILITIES
Our Hill Country Campus is located approximately 65 miles west of San Antonio,Texas and offers students a
great setting for learning to become a dog trainer. Our state-of-the-art classroom facilities are designed with
the student in mind and provide ample space for our small class sizes.
We use a variety of off-site locations for training; for example, our service dog students often train dogs in public
places such as malls, theaters, shopping centers and other areas where these dogs will commonly work.
We offer complimentary airport pickup from our nearby international airport for anyone traveling
to or from our
school. San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is located about 75 minutes east of our facility and is a popular
airport for many international flights.
COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAMS
Highland Canine Training, LLC Professional Dog Trainer School and certificate programs teaches everything you
need to be a professional dog trainer. Our programs offer the most progressive and innovative methods of dog
training to jump start or enhance your career as a professional dog trainer.
We offer comprehensive programs that allow you to focus on specialty areas such as service dog training,
obedience, behavior modification, and more.
Regardless of your current skill level and experience working with dogs, our Professional Dog Trainer Programs
have something to offer. Our goal is to meet the learning requirements of each individual student, and our
programs can be customized to meet those needs.
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CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT
Our curriculum has been developed by industry experts to provide you with the necessary skills to become a
proficient dog trainer in the areas of study. Our curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that
students are provided with the most current information in the industry. Our curriculum is also designed to provide
the student with a variety of techniques that can be applied to accomplish their goals as a professional dog
trainer.
EXPERIENCED INSTRUCTORS
Our staff of expert instructors are recognized leaders in the industry. Prior to being hired at our School for Dog
Trainers, all our instructors are required to have ample training and field experience sufficient to meet state
regulations in Alabama where our school is licensed to operate. Because of their real-life experiences as dog trainers,
they are able to convey invaluable information and techniques to students.
Our staff continuously strives to remain up to date on dog training techniques and methods in this ever-
changing industry by regularly attending training programs, seminars and conferences.
ERIN PURGASON, BS, OWNER
Erin is the owner of Highland Canine Training, LLC and has been a sworn law enforcement officer since 2002. She
directs our obedience and behavior modification training programs and also assists with the training of dogs for
police patrol, detection, and search and rescue. Erin also oversees our Assistance Dogs for Autism Program and
assists with training dogs and working with their new families. Erin has worked with animals in clinical settings
since 1995 and has owned and worked with dogs all her life. Erin also has experience handling scent
discrimination tracking dogs, including a bloodhound as a search and rescue dog handler.
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JASON PURGASON, PRESIDENT
Jason is the President of Highland Canine Training, LLC. A reserve police officer and former Police Canine Handler,
Jason conducts police canine handler programs as well as trainers’ programs and all working dog training. Jason
earned his Police K9 Instructors Certification and has trained canines in the areas of Narcotics Detection, Explosives
Detection, Police Patrol, Urban Disaster, Scent Discrimination Tracking, and Cadaver Detection. Jason has
instructed seminars for Police Canine Handlers at NASA, the Pentagon Police, and for many other professional,
government, and law enforcement teams across the world.
KIM CAIN, TRAINING DIRECTOR
Kim has a passion for working with dogs and people that is unmatched. The joy of watching people learn to
communicate drives her to help as many dogs and dog owners as possible. Her experience with dogs and people
makes her excel as the Training Director of the School for Dog Trainers at Highland Canine Hill Country Campus.
As the spouse of a 30-year retired United States Navy CMC she had to identify and hone skills that would allow her to
develop her career with each new duty station they were assigned. She started with teaching fitness classes, which
developed her ability to motivate others. She then moved to Real Estate Sales which developed her skills to negotiate,
problem solve and provide exceptional customer service. As a property manager for six apartment complexes, she
learned about building teams, and prioritization of tasks. Her role as Methods Improvement/Manpower Analyst taught
her to get to know an individuals’ strengths and build successes through their strengths at the same time you
developed their areas needing improvement. Her role as Treaty Implementation Coordinator elevated her planning and
communication skills. Her role as a Merchandise/Production manager taught her to stay on top of trends and always
seek new information. Using her skills she had a very successful retail employment career, ending as an Area Manager,
with a major national clothing brand. Their retirement move lead them to Texas, where she dove back into real estate
where she was a consistently top producing realtor. Through the USN years, while her husband was deployed, she
spent months home alone with her children. Kim felt safer with dogs in the house. Rottweiler, Doberman, Mastiff,
American Bulldogs were a few breeds of choice. Bigs dogs that needed to be trained. She read, trained, and ultimately
due to her passion for training/teaching and dogs had very well-behaved pups. So well behaved, in fact, that friends
and family consulted her and even hired her to train their dogs. She desperately wanted a career in dog training;
however, it wasn’t the right time for her family to pursue that…yet!
Kim later attended the Master Dog Trainer Course at the School for Dog Trainers at Highland Canine Training in North
Carolina. She will be the first to tell you her growth, both hands on and book knowledge developed beyond her
expectations. She graduated as the class Valedictorian and was awarded the coveted Presidential Leadership Award.
She now has a deep bag of tools, and with her already developed skill set of coaching, mentoring, customer service,
problem solving, and breaking down tasks to attain a goal. She is in her element training dogs and coaching people. In
addition to teaching, she is also offering board and train, private lessons, and she has started a non-profit that will assist
Veterans with PTSD dogs, as well as bring in displaced dogs, train them and find them appropriate placements.
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GREG VAUGHN, INSTRUCTOR
Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Greg brings a wealth of knowledge to our School for Dog Trainers. Greg attended
SUNY Rockland and majored in Psychology. Afterwards, he went on to pursue a career in dog training. He began
at a big box pet training business and earned a certification as a dog trainer. He then went on to work with clients
and their dogs on his own. Offering obedience and behavior modification programs throughout New York, Greg
learned the importance of building a strong and lasting relationship between dog and owner. With years of
experience in pet retail and dog training, he brings a unique insight of the dog industry to our students. Greg also
acts as our student services coordinator to ensure that our students have a seamless and fulfilling experience at our
school. He works closely with our Director of Canine Education Programs and other business divisions to ensure
that our students have an opportunity to learn as much as they would like while attending our programs. His
commitment to the success of each student is apparent in his daily interactions with our students.
Greg joined our team after graduating our 24-week Master Dog Trainer Course in the top of his class. Greg
combines his love for animal behavior with his passion for teaching others to create the best learning
experience for our students.
SAMMIE MUCCIO, INSTRUCTOR
Sammie joins us from Erie, PA and has always had a passion for dogs. Due to allergies in her family, she could never
own a dog growing up – but that did not stop Sammie from pursuing her dreams. She turned to knocking on all her
neighbor’s doors, asking if she could walk their dogs.
Her love for animals continued throughout her life – Sammie attended Franklin & Marshall College and earned a degree
in Animal Behavior. During this time, she was given the opportunity to lead husbandry for Capuchin monkeys. Sammie
absolutely adored them, and it grew her interest in working with wildlife.
Sammie has extensive experience conducting research related to animals. She worked as a chimpanzee health data
analyst for the Jane Goodall Institute. She also worked as a field researcher for the Mahouts Elephant Foundation,
conducting studies of re-wilded Asian elephants in Thailand. Sammie’s education also included Wildlife Conservation
courses at the School for Field Studies in Tanzania. There, she studied the ecology and behavior of common African
large mammals.
While studying in Tanzania, Sammie was introduced to an anti-poaching canine unit that trained dogs to sniff out ivory,
as well as certain ammunition that poachers use to hunt elephants and rhinos. This is when she knew dog training was
the career for her, because she could combine her passion for both dogs and wildlife conservation.
To learn the skills necessary to train these specialized dogs, Sammie attended the Master Dog Trainer Program at the
School for Dog Trainers. In the program, she not only learned about detection, but also how to train service dogs and
help people in need. She finished top of her class with honors and completed an internship with the service dog division
at Highland Canine’s Harmony, NC location. This experience provided her with the opportunity to train hearing, mobility,
seizure, and autism assistance dogs. Shortly after, she moved into a full-time role as Director of Service Dog Training.
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APPROVALS AND MEMBERSHIPS
STATE APPROVALS
Highland Canine Training, LLC School for Dog Trainers is Approved and Regulated by the Texas Workforce
Commission, Career Schools and Colleges, Austin, Texas.
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
International Association of Canine Professionals
Alpha Beta Kappa National Honor Society
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FINANCIAL INFORMATION
TUITION AND FEES
Program Tuition
Service Dog Trainer Program
$13,775 - 18-week program
Obedience and Behavior Modification Professional Program
$5,850 - Level 1: 6-week program
$7,775 - Level 2: 8-week program
$9,750 - Level 3: 12-week program
PAYMENT
Payment for the school can be made in two installments. A minimum of 50% of the program cost must be
paid prior to commencement of the first day of class. The remaining portion of the cost must be paid at the
halfway mark of the enrolled program. Students who have not paid or made arrangements for payment by the
due date will be dropped from the course. This does not apply to VA education benefit recipients that have
completed the entire VA certification process. If VA education benefits are not sufficient to cover the full tuition
and fee balance, the student is responsible for the remaining balance owed.
A non-refundable $500 registration fee is due no later than 1 week prior to the program.
Highland Canine Training, LLC accepts payments in the form of check, cash, MasterCard, Visa, Discover,
American Express and PayPal.
To mail payments, students should send check or money order with full name and program to:
Highland Canine Training, LLC School for Dog Trainers
Attn: Business Manager
145 Foxfield Dr.
Harmony NC, 28634
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CANCELLATION POLICY
A full refund will be made to any student who cancels the enrollment contract within 72 hours (until midnight of
the third day excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays) after the enrollment contract is signed. A full refund
will also be made to any student who cancels enrollment within the student’s first three scheduled class days,
except that the school may retain not more than $100 in any administrative fees charged, as well as items of
extra expense that are necessary for the portion of the program attended and stated separately on the enrollment
agreement.
REFUND POLICY
1. Refund computations will be based on scheduled course time of classes through the last documented day of
an academically related activity. Leaves of absence, suspensions and school holidays will not be counted as
part of the scheduled class attendance.
2. The effective date of termination for refund purposes will be the earliest of the following:
(a) the date of termination, if the student is terminated by the school;
(b) the date of receipt of written notice from the student; or
(c) ten school days following the last date of attendance.
3. If tuition and fees are collected in advance of entrance, and if after expiration of the 72 hour cancellation
privilege the student does not enter school, not more than $100 in any administrative fees charged shall be
retained by the school for the entire residence program or synchronous distance education course
.
4. If a student enters a residence or synchronous distance education program and withdraws or is otherwise
terminated, the school or college may retain not more than $100 in administrative fees charged for the entire
program. The minimum refund of the remaining tuition and fees will be the pro rata portion of tuition, fees,
and other charges that the number of hours remaining in the portion of the course or program for which the
student has been charged after the effective date of termination bears to the total number of hours in the
portion of the course or program for which the student has been charged, except that a student may not
collect a refund if the student has completed 75 percent or more of the total number of hours in the portion
of the program for which the student has been charged on the effective date of termination. (More simply,
the refund is based on the precise number of course time hours the student has paid for, but not yet used,
at the point of termination, up to the 75% completion mark, after which no refund is due.)
5. Refunds for items of extra expense to the student, such as books, tools, or other supplies are to be handled
separately from refund of tuition and other academic fees. The student will not be required to purchase
instructional supplies, books and tools until such time as these materials are required. Once these materials
are purchased, no refund will be made. For full refunds, the school can withhold costs for these types of
items from the refund as long as they were necessary for the portion of the program attended and separately
stated in the enrollment agreement. Any such items not required for the portion of the program attended
must be included in the refund.
6. A student who withdraws for a reason unrelated to the student’s academic status after the 75 percent
completion mark and requests a grade at the time of withdrawal shall be given a grade of “incomplete” and
permitted to re-enroll in the course or program during the 12-month period following the date the student
withdrew without payment of additional tuition for that portion of the course or program.
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7. A full refund of all tuition and fees is due and refundable in each of the following cases:
(a) an enrollee is not accepted by the school;
(b) if the course of instruction is discontinued by the school and this prevents the student from
completing the course; or
(c) if the student's enrollment was procured as a result of any misrepresentation in advertising,
promotional materials of the school, or representations by the owner or representatives of the
school.
8. A full or partial refund may also be due in other circumstances of program deficiencies or violations of
requirements for career schools and colleges.
9. Refund Policy for Students Called to Active Military Service
10. A student of the school or college who withdraws from the school or college as a result of the student being
called to active duty in a military service of the United States or the Texas National Guard may elect one of
the following options for each program in which the student is enrolled:
(a) if tuition and fees are collected in advance of the withdrawal, a pro rata refund of any tuition,
fees, or other charges paid by the student for the program and a cancellation of any unpaid
tuition, fees, or other charges owed by the student for the portion of the program the student
does not complete following withdrawal;
(b) a grade of incomplete with the designation "withdrawn-military" for the courses in the program,
other than courses for which the student has previously received a grade on the student's
transcript, and the right to re-enroll in the program, or a substantially equivalent program if
that program is no longer available, not later than the first anniversary of the date the student
is discharged from active military duty without payment of additional tuition, fees, or other
charges for the program other than any previously unpaid balance of the original tuition, fees,
and charges for books for the program; or
(c) the assignment of an appropriate final grade or credit for the courses in the program, but only
if the instructor or instructors of the program determine that the student has:
(1) satisfactorily completed at least 90 percent of the required coursework for the program;
and
(2) demonstrated sufficient mastery of the program material to receive credit for completing
the program.
11. The payment of refunds will be totally completed such that the refund instrument has been negotiated or
credited into the proper account(s) within 60 days after the effective date of termination.
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FINANCING OPTIONS
FINANCING
At Highland Canine Training, LLC School for Dog Trainers, we understand that paying for your dog trainer
school education is an investment. Therefore, we have simple and affordable financing options available
through TFC Tuition Financing Corporation. We can finance our programs for up to 48 months and offer 0%
interest and low monthly payments while students are attending our school. Financing your education is
simple, and the process can generally be completed in less than a day, as we process most of the
documentation for you.
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ADMISSION PROCEDURES/ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible for enrollment, a prospective student must be at least 18 years of age prior to the start date of the
program. Additionally, students must meet the following criteria:
Criminal Background Conditions
Highland Canine Training, LLC is committed to providing a safe learning environment for all students and faculty.
Prospective students are also required to be subjected to a criminal background check. An application from a
prospective student that indicates a history of being convicted of or pleading guilty or no contest to a violent
crime or other type of felony will be subject to further review by Highland Canine Training, LLC before being
accepted. This policy extends to those students who have already enrolled or are active students. Conviction of
a felony while attending, or while awaiting a class start is grounds for termination or denial. With regard to
admissions decisions, Highland Canine Training, LLC, after its review, will notify students in writing of its decision
to accept or deny the application for enrollment. Highland Canine Training, LLC will not, however, accept
applicants who:
• Have been convicted of, or plead guilty, or no contest, to a violent crime involving a weapon.
• Have been convicted of or plead guilty or no contest, to sexual assault or other sexually related crime,
including but not limited to child pornography or any non-consensual, involuntary sexual act.
• Have been convicted of, or plead guilty or no contest, to a felony within the previous year.
• Have been convicted of, or plead guilty or no contest, to a felony and released from prison within one
year of expected enrollment date.
• Have been convicted of, or plead guilty or no contest, to murder, attempted murder or voluntary
manslaughter.
• Have been convicted of, or plead guilty or no contest to selling, transporting, delivering, cultivating and
manufacturing, or intending to sell illegal drugs or controlled substances unless such conviction or plea
is more than 15 years old.
Physical Requirements
A student enrolling in any of our available programs must be able to, and hereby agrees that he or she can:
• Attach and detach animal training collars and leashes.
• Grasp and hold a leash, controlling small, medium and large dogs.
• Be able to reach above and below shoulder height with both hands.
• Be outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Lift up to 40lbs.
• Carry up to 20lbs.
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• Physically restrain large dogs.
• Hear normal conversation up to 100ft away and in close proximity to others.
Inherent Risks
Students should recognize that training and working with dogs can be physically demanding. The student
understands that injuries can and do occur to people and dogs. Highland Canine Training, LLC is not responsible
for injuries that occur to any student or dog from participating in activities related to or part of our training
programs.
English Language Proficiency
All instruction at Highland Canine Training, LLC is conducted in English. English language proficiency is determined
by an interview with an admissions representative. Successful completion of the interview marks proficiency
appropriate for classroom learning. No Standard English language test is administered.
Highland Canine Training, LLC does not provide English language learning services.
Transfer Credits
Due to the unique nature of our programs our school does not recognize or credit any transferred programs from
other education facilities or institutions.
APPLYING FOR ADMISSION
Applying for admission to the School for Dog Trainers is a simple process. To apply, complete the following steps:
1. Determine which program is the best fit for you.
2. Print out and complete the application package available at www.internationaldogtrainerschool.com .
Application package includes:
a. Application form
b. Student interview form
c. Application form
3. *Application must be completed in its entirety including signatures in order to be considered.
4. Submit a completed application package by one of the following methods:
a. Scan copy of the application packet and send by e-mail to learntotraindogs@highlandcanine.com
b. Fax to: +1704.631.4819
c. Mail to: Highland Canine Training, LLC School for Dog Trainers
145 Foxfield Dr.
Harmony NC, 28634
5. You will be notified upon receipt of the application package.
6. A review of your application package will be completed and a decision letter will be sent stating whether your
application has been accepted.
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REGISTRATION
The next step in the process is to be registered for your program. A non-refundable $500.00 registration fee is
due no later than 1 week prior to the program. Registration is on a first come, first served basis; payments of the
registration fee can be made at any time and reserves a seat in the program for the student.
ENROLLMENT
To comply with the school’s enrollment requirements prior to starting, all students attending Highland Canine
Training, LLC School for Dog Trainers must supply the following documents:
High school transcripts
• Official high school transcript recognized by the student’s state. Official transcripts will be evaluated upon
receipt for validity and Highland Canine Training, LLC reserves the right not to accept those deemed invalid;
or
• State-issued GED or state-authorized equivalent exam; or
• Successful completion of an officially recognized home-schooling program. The home-schooling
documentation required by Highland Canine Training, LLC for review varies based on state requirements. If
home schooling was completed in a state that issues a secondary school completion credential, a copy of
the credential is required. If the state has no such requirements, additional documentation — including a
transcript showing all courses, grades and graduation date, and a notarized statement — must be submitted
for review.
The admissions specialist or designee will review home school documents and notify the applicant if further
documentation is required.
College and other course transcripts (e.g. Community college, trades schools, proprietary schools).
Transcripts must be submitted for
all
courses taken. It does not matter if you graduated; if you attended a course
you will need to include those courses in your transcripts.
**All official transcripts must contain a raised seal or be sent directly from the academic institution to Highland
Canine Training, LLC. Enrollment is contingent upon receipt of all official transcripts.
If accepted, admissions will notify students via e-mail that they have been enrolled into their requested program.
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Immersive Canine Education Programs
The School for Dog Trainers at Highland Canine Training,
LLC offers a variety of comprehensive dog trainer school
programs to give you the tools and knowledge you need
in the field that you love most.
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Immersive Canine Education Programs
The School for Dog Trainers at Highland Canine Training, LLC
offers a variety of comprehensive dog trainer school programs t
PROGRAMS OF STUDY
We have several programs of study to choose from
that vary in length so that students have the
opportunity to learn as little or as much as they would
like.
OBEDIENCE AND BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION
PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM
Our most popular program is our Canine Training and
Behavior Modification Program and is the program
where many of our graduates begin with their dog
training education. Many people begin this program
out of a love of dogs and a desire to spend their days
working with them. They are looking to make a full
time career and are interested in becoming a
professional dog trainer. Pet owners as well as dog
rescue organizations are always in need of a
professional dog trainer’s assistance both short and
long term for canines in their care.
This program is offered for:
Level 1- 6 weeks for a total of 240 hours
174 Class Hours - 66 Lab Hours
Level 2 - 8 weeks for a total of 320 hours
190 Class Hours - 130 Lab Hours
Class
Class
Hours
Lab
Hours
Total
Hours
INT-101 - Introduction & Ethology
16
0
16
ADB-102 - Applied Dog Behavior
24
0
24
LEA-103 - Learning Theory and
Principles
32
8
40
ATT-104 - Application of Training Tools
20
20
40
BEH-105 - Canine Behavior Problems
32
8
40
BUS-106 - Business & Marketing
30
2
32
CLI-107 - Working with Clients
4
4
8
SPE-108 - Dog Specialties
4
12
16
VET-109 - Veterinary & Health Issues
12
12
24
DOM-201 - Dominance & Aggression
8
32
40
FEA-202 - Fear & Aggression
8
32
40
TOTAL HOURS
190
130
320
Level 3 - 12 weeks for a total of 480 hours
236 Class Hours - 244 Lab Hours
Class
Class
Hours
Lab
Hours
INT-101 - Introduction & Ethology
16
0
ADB-102 - Applied Dog Behavior
24
0
LEA-103 - Learning Theory and
Principles
32
8
ATT-104 - Application of Training
Tools
20
20
BEH-105 - Canine Behavior
Problems
32
8
BUS-106 - Business & Marketing
30
2
CLI-107 - Working with Clients
4
4
SPE-108 - Dog Specialties
4
12
VET-109 - Veterinary & Health
Issues
12
12
TOTAL HOURS
174
66
Class
Class
Hours
Lab
Hours
Total
Hours
INT-101 - Introduction & Ethology
16
0
16
ADB-102 - Applied Dog Behavior
24
0
24
LEA-103 - Learning Theory and
Principles
32
8
40
ATT-104 - Application of Training Tools
20
20
40
BEH-105 - Canine Behavior Problems
32
8
40
BUS-106 - Business & Marketing
30
2
32
CLI-107 - Working with Clients
4
4
8
SPE-108 - Dog Specialties
4
12
16
VET-109 - Veterinary & Health Issues
12
12
24
DOM-201 - Dominance & Aggression
8
32
40
FEA-202 - Fear & Aggression
8
32
40
TRI-301 - Dog Tricks / Therapy Dogs
8
32
40
COM-302 - Competition Obedience
16
24
40
AGI-303 - Teaching Agility
16
24
40
ISR-304 - Introduction to Service Dogs
6
34
40
TOTAL HOURS
236
244
480
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SERVICE DOG TRAINER PROGRAM
If you are eager to be a service dog trainer and work
with their handlers, our Service Dog Trainer Program
is
the best program for you. This intensive program will
help you cultivate the appropriate skill set necessary
to understand how to properly select, socialize, and
train service dogs for mobility, hearing assistance, as
well as other psychological disabilities. The program
also covers rights and laws governing service dogs,
their trainers, and their handlers.
This program is offered for:
18 weeks for a total of 720 hours
312 Class Hours - 408 Lab Hours
Class
Class
Hours
Lab
Hours
Total
Hours
INT-101 - Introduction & Ethology
16
0
16
ADB-102 - Applied Dog Behavior
24
0
24
LEA-103 - Learning Theory
and Principles
32
8
40
ATT-104 - Application of Training
Tools
20
20
40
BEH-105 - Canine Behavior Problems
32
8
40
BUS-106 - Business & Marketing
30
2
32
CLI-107 - Working with Clients
4
4
8
SPE-108 - Dog Specialties
4
12
16
VET-109 - Veterinary & Health Issues
12
12
24
SDO-210 - Service Dog Overview
18
22
40
CWD-211 - Working with Clients
with Disabilities
12
28
40
SIG-212 - Training Signal Dogs
14
26
40
SDT-213 - Scent
Discrimination Trailing
8
32
40
MOB-214 - Mobility Dog Overview
22
32
54
MOB-310 - Mobility Dogs -
Teaching Tasks
12
28
40
AAD-215 - Training Autism Service
Dogs
18
22
40
AAD-311 - Training Autism Service
Dogs 2
6
34
40
SAD-216 - Training Dogs for
Seizures, TBI, PTSD
16
24
40
PUB-217 - Service Dogs in Public
4
36
40
BUS-218 Managing Your Service Dog
Business
6
34
40
SDP-312 Service Dog Practical
Examination
2
24
26
TOTAL HOURS
312
408
720
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CLASS DESCRIPTIONS AND LENGTH
INTRODUCTION AND ETHOLOGY
INT-101
16 class hours, 0 lab hours
This class is an introduction to the industry of dog
training and the evolution of the domestic dogs from
wolves. Students will learn about the roles of dog
trainers and explore different areas of training, such
as, service dogs, police dogs, therapy dogs,
detection dogs, etc. Students will also explore
theories of domestication and learn about
differences between domestic dogs and other canids
as well as innate canine behaviors and their impact
on training dogs.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: None
APPLIED DOG BEHAVIOR
ADB-102
24 class hours, 0 lab hours
This class gives students an understanding of
applied dog behavior and its use in training dogs.
The class covers clicker training as a method of
training dogs through the use of positive
reinforcement as well as explaining baiting and luring
dogs.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual, clicker
Prerequisites: None
LEARNING THEORY AND
PRINCIPLES
LEA-103
32 class hours, 8 lab hours
This class explores a variety of learning theories
and principles that are used in dog training. The
student will learn the proper application of
reinforcement schedules as well as behavior
shaping and the fundamentals of training.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: None
APPLICATION OF TRAINING TOOLS
ATT-104
20 class hours, 20 lab hours
This class provides an overview of different types of
training tools and their various uses. The student
will learn the proper application and use of a variety
of tools including the gentle leader, harness,
prong collar, martingale and remote training collar.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual, training collars and equipment.
Prerequisites: ABD-102, LEA-103
CANINE BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS
BEH-105
32 class hours, 8 lab hours
This class focuses on understanding common
canine behavior problems and how to successfully
diagnose and rehabilitate them. In this class the
student will learn how to conduct proper behavior
analysis of canine behavior problems as well as
options for treating each of them.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: None
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BUSINESS & MARKETING
BUS-106
30
class hours, 2 lab hours
This program covers an overview of strategies for
successfully starting and operating a dog training
business. Students will learn about challenges of
beginning a business and marketing it successfully
as well as franchise options for national dog training
related businesses.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: None
WORKING WITH CLIENTS
CLI-107
4 class hours, 4 lab hours
In this class students will learn how to properly teach
clients how to train their own dogs. This class covers
some of the pitfalls of working with clients and how
to deal with them. Also covered in this class are
methods of properly setting up and teaching group
classes, and other dog training lessons.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: None
DOG SPECIALTIES
SPE-108
4 class hours, 12 lab hours
Students will explore a variety of dog related
specialties, such as, treibball, herding, rally
obedience, agility, barn hunt tests, K9 scent work,
competition obedience as well as others. Students
will learn about
the resources and experience required to teach
these specialties.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: None
VETERINARIAN & HEALTH ISSUES
VET-109
12 class hours, 12 lab hours
Students will learn about common veterinary and
health issues that impact training and overall dog
health. This class teaches students how to identify
and treat injuries and canine parasites. The class
also teaches canine first aid and CPR.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual, first aid supplies, canine resuscitation
mannequin.
Prerequisites: None
DOMINANCE & AGGRESSION
DOM-201
8 class hours, 32 lab hours
Students will learn more about dominance and
dominance aggression in dogs. They will also
study methods of rehabilitating and managing this
behavior. This class also discusses techniques for
working with owners who have dogs suffering
from dominance aggression.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: BEH-105
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FEAR & AGGRESSION
FEA-202
8 class hours, 32 lab hours
Students will learn more about phobias and fear
aggression in dogs. They will also study methods of
rehabilitating and managing this behavior. This class
also discusses techniques for working with owners
who have dogs suffering from fear aggression.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: BEH-105
DOG TRICKS & THERAPY DOGS
TRI-301
8 class hours, 32 lab hours
This program covers methods for training dog tricks
and therapy dogs. Students will learn how to utilize
operant conditioning to train complex behaviors and
teach dog tricks. Students will also learn about
training therapy dogs, their uses and certification
requirements for therapy dogs.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual, wheelchair, walkers
Prerequisites: ABD-102, SPE 108, DOM-201, FEA-
202
COMPETITION OBEDIENCE
COM-302
16 class hours, 24 lab hours
Students will learn the skills for teaching competition
level obedience for AKC competitions as well as other
competition sports such as Schutzhund, IPO, etc.
Primary equipment used in this program: None
Prerequisites: ABD-102, LEA-103, ATT-104,
DOM-201, FEA-202
TEACHING AGILITY
AGI-303
16 class hours, 24 lab hours
Students will learn how to teach skills for the fast-
paced and precision sport of agility. This program
teaches students how to teach agility for
competition as well as practical agility skills for
working dogs.
Primary equipment used in this
program:
Training manual, Agility equipment
Prerequisites: ABD-102, LEA-103, SPE-108,
DOM-201, FEA-202
INTRODUCTION TO SERVICE DOGS
ISR-304
6 class hours, 34 lab hours
In this class, students will explore the various
types of service dogs that are used to assist
individuals with disabilities. Students will learn
about Autism Service Dogs, Hearing Service
Dogs, Mobility Service Dogs and Seizure
Alert/Assistance Dogs.
Primary equipment used in this
program:
Training manual
Prerequisites: ABD-102, LEA-103, SPE-108,
DOM-201, FEA-202
SERVICE DOG OVERVIEW
SDO-210
8 class hours, 22 lab hours
Students will learn in-depth information about the training
of a variety of service dogs and how they assist individuals
with disabilities. This class also teaches the student about
the Americans with Disabilities Act, Air Carrier Access Act
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and Fair Housing Act and how they apply to service
dog trainers and owners.
Primary equipment used in this Program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: None
WORKING WITH CLIENTS WITH
DISABILITIES
CWD-211
12 class hours, 28 lab hours
Students will learn about the challenges that are
faced by service dog clients. Students learn the
challenges of being in a wheelchair, being blind and
deaf. Through this understanding, students will
better learn how to teach and work with individuals
with disabilities.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual, wheelchair, walker
Prerequisites: SDO-210
TRAINING SIGNAL DOGS
SIG-212
14 class hours, 26 lab hours
Students will learn the fundamental skills of training
signal dogs for individuals with hearing disabilities.
This class teaches students how to train dogs to
respond to alarms and other noises and to alert their
handler to the sound. This class also teaches how to
select dogs for this work.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
Manual
Prerequisites: SDO-210, CWD-211
SCENT DISCRIMINATION
TRAILING
SDT-213
8 class hours, 32 lab hours
Students will learn about human odor theory and
how it applies to trailing dogs. Students will also
learn the fundamentals of training trailing dogs for
scent discrimination and variable surface trailing
to find lost individuals and criminal suspects. Also
covered in this class are the environmental factors
that affect scent discrimination trailing dogs.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: LEA-103, ATT-104
MOBILITY DOG OVERVIEW
MOB-214
22 class hours, 32 lab hours
Students will learn the fundamental skills of
training mobility dogs for individuals with physical
disabilities. This class teaches students how to
train dogs to work around manual and electric
wheelchairs. This class also teaches how to select
dogs for this work.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual, electric wheelchair, manual wheelchair
Prerequisites: SDO-210, CWD-211
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MOBILITY DOGS – TEACHING TASKS
MOB-310
12 class hours, 28 lab hours
In this class, students will learn how to teach tasks
that are specifically useful for mobility service dogs.
Students will learn how to teach dogs to open/close
doors, turn on light switches, and retrieve items as
well as other common tasks.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual, wheelchair
Prerequisites: MOB-214
TRAINING AUTISM SERVICE DOGS
AAD-215
18 class hours, 22 lab hours
In this class, students are introduced to teaching
tasks that are specifically useful for autism service
dogs. Students will learn how to teach dogs to touch
a target and pair that with certain behaviors.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: SDO-210, CWD-211
TRAINING AUTISM SERVICE DOGS 2
AAD-311
6 class hours, 34 lab hours
In this class, students will learn how to teach tasks
that are specifically useful for autism service dogs.
Students will learn how to teach dogs to touch, lay,
and apply deep pressure as well as other common
tasks.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: AAD-215
TRAINING DOGS FOR SEIZURES, TBI &
PTSD
SAD-216
16 class hours, 24 lab hours
In this class, students will learn how to teach tasks
that are specifically useful for service dogs that
assist persons with disabilities such as seizures,
traumatic brain injury and post- traumatic stress
disorders. Students will learn how to teach dogs
to alert and assist those having seizures as well as
other common tasks.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: SDO-210, CWD-211
SERVICE DOGS IN PUBLIC
PUB-217
4 class hours, 36 lab hours
Students will learn how to effectively manage
service dogs in public places such as, restaurants,
malls, airports, shopping centers and other places.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual, wheelchair
Prerequisites: SDO-210, CWD-211
MANAGING YOUR SERVICE DOG
BUSINESS OR ORGANIZATION
BUS-
218
6 class hours, 34 lab hours
This class teaches students how to successfully
operate a service dog business or nonprofit
organization. Students will
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learn how to develop an application process,
determine waiting periods and how to make
determinations of qualifications for the ADA.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: SDO-210, CWD-211
SERVICE DOG PRACTICAL EXAM
SDP-220
2 class hours, 24 lab hours
Students will learn about public access testing and
apply this to real-world applications. This class
covers testing and certification of service dogs in
public places.
Primary equipment used in this program: Training
manual
Prerequisites: None
S
C
H
O
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ACADEMIC INFORMATION
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
Students are encouraged to bring basic tools and equipment when participating in a program (like leashes and
treat bags). Highland Canine Training, LLC will provide other various training tools and equipment for the students
use during training session but must be returned upon completion of the training. Students will be responsible
for replacement cost of tools and equipment that is lost or damaged through their own neglect. Graduation
certificates will not be awarded to students that have an outstanding balance for equipment repair or replacement
costs.
INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS
Program books are included in the price of the program and are provided to each student for their use. Other
texts that are required for each program are available to be checked out from our library for use during the
program. Students will be responsible for the replacement cost of any unreturned materials. Graduation certificates
will not be awarded to students that have an outstanding balance for book or equipment replacement costs.
ENROLLMENT
Programs typically begin on the first Monday of each quarter and instruction may begin only when programs are
scheduled.
GRADUATION DOCUMENTS
Highland Canine Training, LLC awards certificates upon successful completion of programs. The graduation
document awarded for the program in which the student is enrolled outlines the program completed and length
of program.
ACADEMIC POLICIES
ACADEMIC STANDARDS & GRADING
The purpose of Highland Canine Training, LLC’s School for Dog Trainers is to prepare students to be able to
provide professional canine education programs as a dog trainer. For this reason, academic evaluation is regularly
administered to evaluate a student’s progress in terms of proficiencies of a professional dog trainer that are
expected by clients. Student grades are based on three factors: Lab Work, Classwork and Professionalism. The
student’s grade will be calculated based on the following percentages:
Lab Work – 60%
Classwork – 30%
Professionalism – 10%
The following factors are evaluated under Professionalism:
• Attitude – exhibiting a positive attitude when things go right and when things go wrong.
• Appearance – dressing accordingly and presenting yourself as a professional dog trainer.
• Work Habits and Accountability – demonstrating punctuality (not arriving late or leaving early from class),
courtesy, safety, cleanliness, and ability to follow rules and directions.
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• Communication – listening and interacting effectively with other students and staff. This includes applying
good communication skills, both in lectures and in lab work.
• Teamwork – cooperating with other students to accomplish like goals.
• Problem Solving – effectively solving problems when working with dogs and people and knowing when to
ask instructors for help.
• Ethics – simply put, doing the right thing.
STANDARDS FOR SATISFACTORY PROGRESS
Each program varies in the assignments of hands on projects, interactive discussion, classroom time, research,
presentations and exams. Students must achieve a grade 80% or higher on their over-all grade to pass the
program and receive credit towards their certificate program.
Students who do not pass the program will not receive the certificate and must reapply to the school and retake
the program with a passing grade to receive a certificate.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible for graduation, a student must have an overall score of 80% or better, and an attendance rate of
at least 90% (after rounding). A candidate for graduation must also have a zero balance in his or her student
account and if residing in housing, must complete the housing check-out form.
SUSPENSION FOR UNSATISFACTORY GRADES OR PROGRESS
Highland Canine Training, LLC School for Dog Trainers strives to assist each student in achieving their individual
goals in regards to their canine education. Students who are failing a program can continue the program but will
not receive a Certificate.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
It is essential in the pursuit of a successful education as a professional dog trainer that absenteeism is kept to an
absolute minimum. Therefore, all absences, tardies, and early leaves will be recorded, regardless of the reason.
Highland Canine Training, LLC School for Dog Trainers attendance policy dictates that students are not allowed
to miss more than 10 percent of the total hours for the program.
CLOCK HOURS
Each contact hour (Student contact hour) is composed of:
• A 50-60 minute class or lecture in a 60-minute period
• A 50-60 minute faculty supervised “lab” training or internship in a 60-minute period.
• A clock hour is based on an actual hour of attendance, though each hour may include a 10-minute
break.
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LEAVE OF ABSENCE
A leave of absence may be granted for mitigating circumstances of family crisis, poor health or other significant
circumstances outside the control of the student. These circumstances must be documented in writing and also
must be demonstrated that the circumstances have an adverse impact on satisfactory progress of the program.
PROGRAM REPETITIONS
Students have the options of retaking a program and replacing it with a higher grade.
INCOMPLETES
Students who do not completely fulfill the requirements of a program will be given an incomplete. A grade may
replace an incomplete if the student successfully completes the unfinished work within one (1) calendar year.
WITHDRAWAL FROM A PROGRAM
If students withdraw from a program, the student must submit a letter to the President of Highland Canine
Training, LLC. If the student is currently residing in housing they must also complete a check out sheet prior to
departing.
REINSTATEMENT TO A PROGRAM
Any student wishing to reinstate themselves to a particular program of study should notify the school’s President
in writing prior to the beginning of the program in which they wish to attend.
CONDITIONS FOR DISMISSAL
Highland Canine Training, LLC reserves the right to terminate or suspend a student for any reason including, but
not limited to:
• Abuse or neglect of any animal
• Behavior which would jeopardize the physical safety of self or others
• Improper use of computer technology
• Harassment
• Sexual harassment
• Acts of dishonesty
• Plagiarism
• Hazing
• Retaliation
STUDENT RECORDS
After successful completion of a certificate program students will receive a copy of their transcripts and certificate
if their account is paid in full. Student records are secured at our corporate office. Additional transcripts can be
obtained by submitting a written request at a cost of $15.00.
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THE FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACE ACT 1974 (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to the
student’s education records.
Highland Canine Training complies with the Family Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 by using the following policy
regarding access to, and protecting the confidentiality of, student records. For more information, call 800-729-
6222 (KS only) or 620-432-0302.
Upon written request to the Registrar, any student will be granted access to and review of any or all records
pertaining directly to said student. Access to records will be granted no more than forty-five (45) days following
such request. If information in these records is found to be inaccurate, misleading, or detrimental to the student,
the student can request in writing an amendment to a record and clearly identify the part of the record the student
wants changed and specify why it should be changed.
If Highland Canine Training, LLC decides not to amend the record as requested, the college will notify the student
in writing of the decision. The student can appeal this decision through the student appeal process.
No personally identifiable records from Highland Canine Training, LLC will be released to parents, spouse, or
others without the expressed, written consent of the student. Within the provisions of the Family Rights and
Privacy Act, access will be granted to the following without the consent of the student:
a) School officials, including teachers and administrators, who have a legitimate educational interest; A
school official is a person employed by Highland Canine Training, LLC in an administrative,
supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement or security
unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom Highland Canine Training, LLC
has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using Highland Canine Training, LLC
employees of officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent.
A school official has a legitimate education interest if the official needs to review an education record
in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for Highland Canine Training, LLC.
b) Officials of schools to which the student wishes to transfer;
c) Authorized representatives of the Comptroller General of the United States, the Secretary of
Education, or an administrative head of an education agency;
d) In connection with the student’s application, receipt or continued eligibility/status for financial aid, or
e) Court order.
Should a student owe Highland Canine Training, LLC any delinquent amount, official records will not be released
to the student or a third party.
However, this does not preclude the student from personally reviewing his/her records and challenging any of
the information.
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Students have the right to file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged failures by
Highland Canine Training, LLC to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office
that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
US Department of Education
600 Independence Avenue, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
HONORS AND AWARDS
Honor Graduates
The School for Dog Trainers at Highland Canine Training, LLC offers the most intensive training programs available
today. During graduation we recognize Honor Graduates with a special award. These graduates have
demonstrated a commitment to excellence in their academic assignments and practical examinations throughout
their program. Honor graduates are those students who complete the Master Dog Trainer Program of study with
a 3.8 GPA or higher.
Student Excellence Program
Our Student Excellence Program is designed to challenge students in our Master Dog Trainer Program and
recognize their desire to participate in professional development opportunities that go above and beyond the
standard curriculum. Recipients of our Student Excellence Award demonstrate a number of qualities throughout
the program. The following criteria is used for selection:
• Completes the program with a 3.5 GPA or higher
• Participates in a research and development programs
• Volunteers for off-site training opportunities
• Participates in various predetermined Advanced Learning Objectives (ALO)
• Maintains the highest standards of professionalism
National Honor Society
The prestigious Alpha Beta Kappa National Honor Society was founded in 1977. This organization was
developed to encourage and recognize superior academic and laboratory training in honorable fields of
endeavor.
Highland Canine Training School for Dog Trainers is proud to be a member of this Honor Society. Qualifications
for nomination to Alpha Beta Kappa include:
• Complete the 24-week Master Dog Trainer Program
• Minimum cumulative grade point average of 4.0
• Attendance of at least 98%
Candidates for nomination are notified during graduation.
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RULES AND REGULATIONS
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Highland Canine Training, LLC School for Dog Trainers success depends on many factors, including the quality
of its instruction, the success of its graduates, and the image its student’s project.
There is more to being a successful dog trainer than learning the skills that are taught in class. Qualities such as
dependability, appearance, positive attitude and regular attendance are as important to any client as the
knowledge you possess. The rules listed below will help you develop the qualities necessary to become a
successful student and professional dog trainer.
Highland Canine Training, LLC School for Dog Trainers reserves the right to impose a variety of disciplinary
actions, including suspension or permanent termination from school, on any student whose behavior is in the
violation of the Code of Conduct. To clarify, school officials will determine in their sole discretion if the Code of
Conduct has been violated. Disciplinary action may be taken under this Code of Conduct regardless of whether
that conduct also involves alleged or proven violation of Local, State or Federal law. Below, we have highlighted
a selection of our rules and regulations.
DRUGS/ALCOHOL
Use or possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia while on or off Highland Canine Training, LLC School for Dog
Trainers property during school activities will not be tolerated. Alcohol is prohibited on campus and at Highland
Canine Training, LLC School for Dog Trainers sanctioned activities. Highland Canine Training, LLC School for Dog
Trainers will also work cooperatively with police and local authorities to promote prevention strategies and, where
necessary, respond to students who are in possession of or under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Such
conduct is grounds for immediate termination from the school.
UNPROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR
Any type of behavior on or off campus that is contrary to the School’s mission to provide premier professional
canine training will not be tolerated. Unprofessional behavior includes, but is not limited to, using vulgar or
offensive language, not following instructions, dishonesty, antagonizing behavior, spreading rumors, and being
disrespectful to others. Such conduct is grounds for immediate termination from the school.
ATTITUDE
Proper attitude must be shown at all times. Profanity, derogatory comments, racial, ethnic or sexist remarks will
not be tolerated between students or from students to staff. Such conduct is grounds for immediate termination
from the school.
DRESS CODE POLICY
To ensure student’s safety is maintained, students must:
• Wear clothing that does not confine movement but is not so loose it could get caught in gates or easily
be grabbed by a dog.
• Wear safe, non-slip shoes and keep them tied.
• Utilize good judgment and common sense (essential when ones’ personal safety is at stake).
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HAIR POLICY – ALL STUDENTS
In all lab settings and at any time that students are working with dogs, hair must be contained away from the
face and eyes or secured back so it does not pose a safety risk. For long hair (i.e. beyond the collar), this generally
means the hair must be fastened securely to the back of the head or held away from the face. Hair can be placed
in a bun or single ponytail, but the ponytail should be tucked into the shirt during lab.
STUDENT COMPLAINT/GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
Complaints are defined as any student concern regarding the school programs, services, or staff. A student who
has a concern about a school-related issue is encouraged to schedule a conference with the school director to
find resolution. If an issue is not resolved to a student's satisfaction through the conference, the student can file
a formal complaint in writing with the school director who will formally investigate the complaint, take appropriate
action, and provide a written response to the student by the 10th business day after the day the formal written
complaint is received by member of the school faculty or staff. Note: a conference with the director is not required
before a student files a formal written complaint.
Notification of Complaint to the Texas Workforce Commission
A student who is dissatisfied with the school director's response can file a complaint with the Texas Workforce
Commission:
Texas Workforce Commission
Career Schools and Colleges, Room 226T
101 East 15th Street
Austin, Texas 78778-0001
Phone: (512) 936-3100
Information on filing a complaint with TWC can be found on TWC’s Career Schools and
Colleges Website at texasworkforce.org/careerschools.
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2023 Program Calendar
Dates are subject to change
Jan. 1(Su)
New Year’s Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Mar. 20 (M)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 6, 8 & 12 Week Programs and
Service Dog Program begins
Apr. 28 (F)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 6 week Program ends
May 12 (F)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 8 week Program ends
May 29 (M)
Memorial Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Jun. 9 (F)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 12 week Program ends
Jul. 4 (Tu)
Independence Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Jul. 21 (F)
Service Dog Program ends
Aug. 7 (M)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 6, 8 & 12 Week Programs and
Service Dog Program begins
Sep. 4 (M)
Labor Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Sep. 15 (F)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 6 week Program ends
Sep. 29 (F)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 8 week Program ends
Oct. 27 (F)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 12 week Program ends
Nov. 23 (Th)
Thanksgiving Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Dec. 8
Service Dog Program ends
Dec. 25 (M)
Christmas Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Holidays and School Closings are noted in BOLD
Program Start Dates
Program End Dates
Program Catalog 2023-2024, Volume 01, Number 01 – Hill Country Campus
33 | P a g e
2024 Program Calendar
Dates are subject to change
Jan. 1(M)
New Year’s Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Jan. 2 (Tu)
Service Dog Program begins
Jan. 15 (M)
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (No Classes/School Closed)
May 3 (F)
Service Dog Trainer Program ends
May 13 (M)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 6, 8 & 12 Week Programs begin
May 27 (M)
Memorial Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Jun. 21 (F)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 6 week Program ends
Jul. 4 (Th)
Independence Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Jul. 5 (F)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 8 week Program ends
Aug. 2 (F)
Canine Training & Behavior Modification 12 week Program ends
Aug. 12 (M)
Service Dog Trainer Program begins
Sep. 2 (M)
Labor Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Nov. 28 (Th)
Thanksgiving Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Dec. 13(F)
Service Dog Trainer Program ends
Dec. 25 (S)
Christmas Day (No Classes/School Closed)
Holidays and School Closings are noted in BOLD
Program Start Dates
Program End Dates