Animal Care and Dog Psychology Pathway
Animal Care
A course by
The Career Academy
Study animal care and dog psychology online to develop essential skills in animal health, welfare, and behaviour, plus gain business know-how to operate animal care services. Learn 100% online, at your own pace, with industry-accredited certification.
NZ$3,305
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Understand canine psychology and behaviour
Explain how dogs communicate, behave, and develop, and recognise behavioural disorders.
Apply dog training principles
Practically apply obedience training, movement control, and working dog training at an introductory level.
About This Course
The Animal Care and Dog Psychology Pathway builds your knowledge in animal health, welfare, and dog behaviour. The course covers topics including canine psychology, training principles, animal husbandry, veterinary care basics, and business operations for animal services. Designed for beginners, this online-only programme gives you the confidence to work with animals, prepare for entry level animal care roles, or take further study. Includes support from tutors, career resources, and a flexible study schedule.
Course Content
- Nature and Scope of Canine Psychology
- Canine Senses and Communication
- Understanding Natural Canine Behaviour
- Canine Behavioural Development
- Canine Behavioural Disorders
- Basic Dog Training Principles
- Dog Obedience Training
- Controlling a Dog’s Movement
- Training Working Dogs
- Introduction to Animal Care
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Husbandry of Dogs
- Husbandry of Other Species
- Common Diseases of Dogs
- Common Diseases of Other Species
- First Aid, Accidents and Emergencies
- Handling and Safety
- Veterinary Health Care and Procedures
- Training and Behaviour (foundational across species)
- Starting Up & Business Types and Structures
- Preparing your Business Plan
- Introduction to Accounting & Bookkeeping
- Certificate in Xero (practical accounting software use)
- Certificate in Digital Marketing with AI (optional, unlocked after core modules)
Build towards these roles
Animal Care AssistantDog TrainerKennel TechnicianShelter Support WorkerPet Shop AssistantVeterinary ReceptionistBehavioural Support AssistantCanine Enrichment CoordinatorDog Daycare CoordinatorAssistance Dog TrainerAnimal Welfare Worker
The Career Academy is here to transform your future. As an internationally recognised online education provider, they partner with industry to deliver courses that are practical, flexible, and designed to get results. With expert tutors, a 4.8/5 star student rating, and graduates in New Zealand, Australia, Ireland and the UK, The Career Academy has already helped over 25,000 learners each year gain the skills, confidence, and qualifications to take their next step. You could be next.
