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Certificate in Dog Psychology, Behaviour & Training and Diploma in Veterinary Assistant & Animal Welfare

Study Dog Psychology, Behaviour and Veterinary Assistant Skills

An online diploma covering canine behaviour, dog training, and veterinary assistant knowledge, study self-paced over 12 months.

CPD Endorsed100% OnlineFrom $29/Week
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12 Mths
Duration
Online
Delivery
66
Units
Flexible
Start Date
CPD Endorsed
Credential
Certificate in Dog Psychology, Behaviour & Training and Diploma in Veterinary Assistant & Animal Welfare

Study Dog Psychology, Behaviour and Veterinary Assistant Skills

An online diploma covering canine behaviour, dog training, and veterinary assistant knowledge, study self-paced over 12 months.

CPD Endorsed100% OnlineFrom $29/Week
12 Mths
Duration
Online
Delivery
66
Units
Flexible
Start Date
CPD Endorsed
Credential
Why Study This

Practical, Job-Relevant Skills You Can Build.

ICOES And CPD Standards Office Accredited Qualification

Approximately 360 Hours Of Learning, 12 Months Access

Endorsed By SPCA New Zealand, No Exams, Study Fully Online

Skills & Applications

Skills You'll Build

Practical, job-relevant skills for these roles. As a professional development course, it builds capability in this field rather than guaranteeing a specific role or salary.

Animal Welfare OfficerInvestigates animal welfare concerns, responds to complaints, and works with organisations such as the SPCA to…
Animal Behaviour TechnicianObserves and records animal behaviour, assists with behaviour modification programmes, and supports training…
Dog Trainer (Junior)Assists with group and individual dog training sessions, applies behaviour science principles, and supports…
Veterinary ReceptionistManages client communications, bookings, and front-of-practice operations at a veterinary clinic or animal…
Clinical Assistant (Veterinary)Provides hands-on support to veterinary professionals, assists with patient handling, and maintains clinical…
Animal Rehabilitation Support WorkerAssists qualified practitioners with animal rehabilitation programmes, monitoring progress and supporting…
Animal Care TechnicianCares for animals in shelters, kennels, research facilities, or veterinary practices, including feeding, health…
Shelter Veterinary AssistantSupports shelter veterinary staff with intake assessments, treatment assistance, and daily care for animals…
Canine Behaviour Support WorkerWorks within animal welfare or training organisations to assist dogs with behaviour challenges, applying…

Possible career directions only; no specific job, salary or outcome is guaranteed. Where you go depends on your experience, the employer and your location.

What You’ll Learn

66 Units

Core Units · 66 units
  • Topic 1Nature and Scope of Canine Psychology
  • Topic 2Canine Senses and Communication
  • Topic 3Understanding Natural Canine Behaviour
  • Topic 4Canine Behavioural Development
  • Topic 5Canine Behavioural Disorders
  • Topic 6Basic Dog Training Principles
  • Topic 7Dog Obedience Training
  • Topic 8Controlling a Dog's Movement
  • Topic 9Training Working Dogs
  • Topic 10Introduction to Animal Care
  • Topic 11Anatomy and Physiology
  • Topic 12Husbandry of Dogs
  • Topic 13Husbandry of Other Species
  • Topic 14Common Diseases of Dogs
  • Topic 15Common Diseases of Other Species
  • Topic 16First Aid, Accidents and Emergencies
  • Topic 17Handling and Safety
  • Topic 18Veterinary Health Care and Procedures
  • Topic 19Training and Behaviour
  • Topic 20Introduction to Animal Anatomy and Physiology
  • Topic 21Cellular Structure and Function
  • Topic 22Tissues and Organ Systems
  • Topic 23Skeletal System
  • Topic 24Muscular System
  • Topic 25Circulatory System
  • Topic 26Respiratory System
  • Topic 27Digestive System
  • Topic 28Nervous System
  • Topic 29Reproduction in Animals
  • Topic 30Embarking on Animal Health
  • Topic 31Common Disease in Animals
  • Topic 32Nutrition and Diet for Animals
  • Topic 33Preventive Care and Vaccinations in Animals
  • Topic 34Parasite Control and Management
  • Topic 35Animal Behaviour & Stress Management
  • Topic 36Reproductive Health in Animals
  • Topic 37Emergency First Aid for Animals
  • Topic 38Specialised Care of Animals
  • Topic 39Health and Safety
  • Topic 40Advances in Veterinary Surgeries
  • Topic 41Medical Interventions
  • Topic 42Foundations of Animal Health and Disease
  • Topic 43Detecting Disease
  • Topic 44Categorising Animal Ailments
  • Topic 45Unveiling Disease Origins
  • Topic 46Navigating Treatment Strategies
  • Topic 47Dynamics of Inflammation
  • Topic 48Fever's Role in Animal Immunity
  • Topic 49Journey of Healing Care and Recovery
  • Topic 50Decoding Cellular Transformations
  • Topic 51Natural Approaches to Animal Wellness
  • Topic 52Recognising Symptoms of Discomfort
  • Topic 53Health through Natural Nutrition
  • Topic 54Holistic Health Care
  • Topic 55Addressing Health Issues
  • Topic 56Common Ailments
  • Topic 57Managing Health Challenges
  • Topic 58Introduction to Animal Welfare
  • Topic 59Animal Psychology
  • Topic 60Strategies for Management
  • Topic 61Welfare and Protection Services
  • Topic 62Welfare and Rescue Services
  • Topic 63Promoting Animal Welfare
  • Topic 64Welfare needs in Animals
  • Topic 65Improving Animal Welfare
  • Topic 66Balancing Animal Welfare Needs
Before You Apply

Entry Requirements

What you’ll typically need to get started.

No formal academic prerequisites

Requirements can vary by intake and pathway, so submit an enquiry to confirm what applies to you.

What’s Included

Everything That Comes With Your Enrolment

Industry-Accredited Qualification

Courses are accredited by ICOES and the CPD Standards Office. The Career Academy is also a member of the International Approval & Recognition Council. Upon completion, receive a Certificate of Achievement.

Unlimited Tutor Support

Unlimited access to tutor support via phone and email during business hours. Tutors are industry experts passionate about student success.

100% Online, Study at Your Own Pace

Study completely online whenever suits you, with 12 months access to course materials and approximately 360 hours of learning content. No exams, ever.

Career Centre Access

Upon enrolment, receive instant access to the Career Centre including latest job opportunities, CV templates, a free personalised CV review, job tips, interview preparation, and personalised career planning.

Free Student ID Card

Receive a Virtual Student ID Card providing access to over 150,000 discounts on food, entertainment, travel and more in New Zealand and around the world.

Free CCH eBook Library Access

Get free access to over 50 titles in the CCH eBook Library to enhance learning and knowledge.

SEEK Pass Verified Credential

Verify your qualification from The Career Academy with SEEK Pass upon completion to share on SEEK and stand out to employers as a qualified, job-ready candidate.

10-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Enrol with confidence knowing that your satisfaction is guaranteed with a 10-day money-back guarantee.

Free bonus courses included

CCH eBook Library Access

Free access to over 50 titles to enhance learning and knowledge.

Student ID Card

Virtual Student ID card providing access to over 150,000 discounts on food, entertainment…

CAN
Your Provider

The Career Academy NZ

The Career Academy offers an online Career Centre providing career coaching, CV reviews, interview preparation, job search resources, and LinkedIn profile reviews. Students have access to a Career Success Hub, Business Hub, and Self Service Resource Hub. The centre includes one-to-one coaching from dedicated career support staff and is available to all students during and after their studies.

Fees & Funding

Flexible Ways To Pay

From $29/Week
on an interest-free payment plan
EASY WAYS TO PAY
Pay upfrontWeekly payment plan
Enquire to confirm the exact fees and payment options for your situation. We don’t list a set price here because it varies by your circumstances.
Getting Started

Your Path To Enrolment

A few simple steps from enquiry to your first day.

1
Submit enquiry or enrol online
2
Choose payment option (upfront or payment plan)
3
Receive instant access to course materials and Career Centre
Why Students Choose The

What Students Say

★★★★★

“Hiromi found the perfect work-life balance after enrolling in The Career Academy. As a busy mum, the flexibility of online study allowed her to pursue her dream career while caring for her family. Upon completing her course, she secured a role with The Back Office Company.”

HHiromi
★★★★★

“Cameron transformed his passion for dogs into a successful mobile dog grooming service. With everything from a full grooming table to a hydro-bath, he brings the salon directly to his clients' homes. His journey started with The Career Academy, which equipped him with the skills and confidence to launch his business.”

CYCameron Young
★★★★★

“Janet followed her passion for dogs and landed her dream role in a grooming salon. Her studies gave her the knowledge to expand her expertise, and she's already planning to launch her own mobile grooming service.”

JJanet
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

This course is designed to be accessible to students at the start of their animal care journey, and no prior experience or formal qualifications are required. A passion for working with animals is the main starting point. Submit an enquiry to confirm any current eligibility criteria before you enrol.
A weekly payment plan may be available, making it easier to spread the cost over time. Full current pricing is not listed here. Submit a Get Course enquiry to confirm current fees and payment options.
Students have 12 months access to the course materials and approximately 360 hours of learning content. The course is self-paced, so you can progress faster or slower depending on your schedule. Submit an enquiry if you need clarification on the access period.
The course is delivered 100% online by The Career Academy NZ. All study is self-paced, with no fixed class times and no exams. Students receive unlimited tutor support via phone and email during business hours from industry-expert tutors.
This course does not include a formal work placement component. Practical knowledge is developed through the online course content, including animal welfare and behaviour material endorsed by SPCA New Zealand. Submit an enquiry if you want guidance on gaining hands-on experience alongside your study.
This diploma is accredited by ICOES and the CPD Standards Office, and The Career Academy NZ is a member of the International Approval and Recognition Council. Graduates receive a Certificate of Achievement, CPD credits, and a SEEK Pass verified credential. It is not a government-accredited qualification on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF).
As a professional development course, credit toward formal qualifications is arranged through the provider's RPL or credit recognition process. Submit a Get Course enquiry to confirm what this diploma may count toward and how to apply for credit at another institution.
Students receive unlimited access to tutor support via phone and email during business hours, with tutors described as industry experts. On enrolment, students also gain instant access to the Career Centre, which includes job listings, CV templates, a personalised CV review, interview preparation, and career planning resources. A Virtual Student ID Card providing access to over 150,000 discounts is also included.
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About This Course

Certificate in Dog Psychology, Behaviour & Training and Diploma in Veterinary Assistant & Animal Welfare

This combined diploma covers two complementary areas: dog psychology and behaviour training, and veterinary assistant and animal welfare practice. Students build skills in canine behaviour, animal care, welfare principles, and the practical knowledge needed to support veterinary teams. The course suits people moving into animal care roles or those already working with animals who want to formalise their skills.

Delivered by The Career Academy NZ, the course is accredited by ICOES and the CPD Standards Office, and endorsed by organisations including SPCA New Zealand. On completion, students receive a Certificate of Achievement, CPD credits, and a SEEK Pass verified credential to share with employers.

The course is 100% online and self-paced, with approximately 360 hours of learning content and 12 months access. There are no exams. Students receive unlimited tutor support by phone and email during business hours, plus Career Centre access covering CV templates, interview preparation, and personalised career planning.

Ready When You Are

Take The Next Step Into Health & Community Services

Enquire about this course and a course advisor from The Career Academy NZ will be in touch with pricing and next steps.

Helping students across New Zealand find the right course since 2013 · 1M+ enquiries

100% OnlineFrom $29/Week

Disclaimer: Course information on this page is sourced from the education provider and was last verified on the date shown below. Details including pricing, availability, entry requirements and course content may change without notice. Get Course is a directory service that connects students with course providers; we do not deliver courses directly. Contact the provider for the most current information before enrolling.

Last updated: July 2026