2026 Australian Dog Courses & Seminars: Pet Owner Workshops & Professional Industry Conferences
Your ultimate guide to canine education in 2026.
Whether you are a dedicated pet parent looking to bond with your dog through a Scent Work workshop, or a pet professional seeking the latest science-backed insights at a national dog training conference, this is your centralised hub for learning in Australia.
Our 2026 calendar features a curated selection of in-person seminars, hands-on workshops, and professional development courses across the country, as well as accessible online webinars.
📢 Are you hosting an educational event in 2026?
Help us promote responsible dog ownership and professional excellence. If you are running a dog-related course, seminar, or conference anywhere in Australia (or online) in 2026, we want to hear from you!
Submission is FREE. Please send to
Event Name & Date(s)
Location (or "Online")
Target Audience (Owners, Professionals, or Kids)
A brief description & high-res promotional image
Booking link or contact details
Highlights:
✔️ Flexible Learning: Log in anytime and complete the course in just 30–60 minutes from your desktop.
✔️ Critical Care: Learn to manage life-threatening situations such as cardiac emergencies and respiratory distress.
✔️ National Reach: Perfect for pet owners outside of major cities who cannot attend in-person workshops.
- When: Available 24/7. Where: Online (Self-paced).
- Cost: $70 (15% discount available when bundled with a Pet First Aid Kit).
- Enrol Here: https://firstaid.redcross.org.au/pet-first-aid/
Discover the power of your dog’s nose! This beginner-friendly course presented by Pathfinders in Shepparton (VIC) builds strong foundations in odour recognition, search skills, and handler understanding.
The curriculum covers an introduction to general searches, building skills each week, reading your dog’s body language, and understanding equipment—all in a supportive, structured environment. This Introduction to Scentwork course builds confident, motivated searches while strengthening your partnership along the way.
2026 Dates: Enrolling Now. Contact pawthfindersscentwork@gmail.com for upcoming block dates.
Suitability: Open to all breeds and ages. No experience needed—just a dog who enjoys food or toys and a handler ready to learn.
Highlights: Low impact, high mental enrichment.
Availability: Strictly limited (Only 2 spots left for current intake!)
Location: Shepparton, VIC.
Enrol Here:
Complete the Google Booking Form Here ***
Discover the power of Mantrailing, a fun, dog-led activity where your dog learns to follow the unique scent trail of a specific person. This non-competitive sport is fantastic for building confidence in new environments and around new people.
It is suitable for dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes—including deaf dogs—and focuses on strengthening the bond between dog and handler through choice and teamwork. This session presented by Dr Ingrid Groeger-Stone (Creature Connections) is the first of two specialised webinars hosted this month by the Pet Professional Guild Australia (PPGA).
- Format: Online Live Webinar.
- Time: 7:00 PM (AEDT).
- Cost: FREE for paid-up PPGA members; $20.00 for Pet Owner members and the general public.
- Suitability: Open to all breeds and ages; particularly beneficial for dogs needing environmental confidence.
- Register Here: Sign up via the PPGA Event Page.
Prioritise evidence-based health with the 5 Hounds Titre Testing Roadshow. Dr. Will Maginness and his team are touring Australia throughout February and March 2026 to offer pet parents a data-driven alternative to standard vaccination schedules. A titre test is a simple blood test that measures your dog's existing immunity levels, helping you determine if a booster is actually necessary. This roadshow is a leading opportunity for those seeking a "nature-first" and informed approach to canine preventative care.
📍 2026 Clinic Dates & Locations:
Adelaide: Friday, 27th February | Kilburn (9 am to 2 pm).
Perth: Sunday, 1st March | Caversham (9 am to 1 pm).
Brisbane: Saturday, 14th March | Durack (9 am to 3 pm).
Sydney: Sunday, 15th March | Orchard Hills (9 am to 3 pm).
Melbourne: Saturday, 21st March | Brunswick (9 am to 4 pm).
The Details:
Cost: $150 per dog (15-minute dedicated time slots).
Subscriber Discount: Active 5 Hounds subscribers can use the code 5H2026 at checkout for a free test (eligibility T&Cs apply).
Booking: Essential. Specific location details are emailed to participants closer to their selected date.
Enrol Here:
Book your 5 Hounds Titre Test here Deep Dive: Read our expert interview with Dr. Will Maginness:
Titre Testing for Dogs: Everything You Need to Know
The International School of Bowen Therapy (ISBT), established in 1998, has announced its 2026 course intake for those interested in the gentle, non-invasive manual therapy of Bowen.
Directed by Suzanne Baker, BSc. DC. MCA Dip Acc.—a former international rider and Olympic equine physical therapist—the program is supported by a team of highly trained specialists. These courses are designed for a wide range of individuals, from dog owners wanting to assist their own pets to professionals seeking full qualification and industry association membership. By targeting the body’s connective tissue network, ISBT-Bowen Therapy can assist in repair, recovery, and general health maintenance for dogs of all ages and performance levels.
Melbourne, VIC: Level One – February 28 / March 1, 2026 at East Malvern.
Gympie, QLD: Level One – April 11 / 12, 2026.
Course Outcomes: Options to learn basic skills for personal use or complete Levels 1–5 to become a certified ISBT Canine Therapist.
Information Pack: To receive the full canine course information pack, or for details on 2026 Equine and Human courses, contact ISBT directly.
Learn More: Read our featured article,
Heal Your Dog with Bowen Therapy , for a deep dive into the benefits of this practice.
Celebrate the influential women who have built, shaped, and continue to innovate within the Australian pet industry. Hosted by IndePet, this annual event brings together professionals for an afternoon of networking and insight at the Yarra River Suite.
- Time: Join the celebration from 2:00 PM.
- Venue: The Yarra River Suite @ Batman’s Hill on Collins, 623 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC.
- Enrol Here: Visit
www.indepet.com.au
The countdown is on for Australia’s premier grooming event!
AusGroom 2026 lands at the Bulla Dog Exhibition Centre, bringing together professionals, educators, and leading brands for three days of connection and competition.
Friday, March 6, is dedicated to a Professional Development Day, featuring full-day seminars and live demonstrations from international experts Blake Hernandez and Cat Opson. Designed to provide practical skills for immediate salon application, the day includes lunch, refreshments, exclusive goodie bags, and a 4:00 PM Happy Hour Tradeshow. Whether you are attending to compete, network, or discover the latest industry innovations, AusGroom is the ultimate hub for the grooming community.
Exhibitor Opportunities: Face-to-face branding and lead generation opportunities are still available for businesses supporting pet professionals.
Venue: Bulla Dog Exhibition Centre, Melbourne.
Event Details:
Visit the Official PIAA Event Page Exhibitor Kit:
Download the Prospectus here
Join world-renowned educators Michael Shikashio (CDBC) and Dr. Moira Hechenleitner (DVM, CSAT) at the Sydney Masonic Centre for an intensive three-day masterclass designed for trainers, shelter staff, and behaviour professionals. This event uses real-life video demonstrations to help you identify the physiological signs and underlying emotions—from persistent stress to complex motivations—that drive aggression and separation-related behaviours.
- Cost: $655.00 per person (plus processing fees).
- Venue: Sydney Masonic Centre, Level 24/66 Goulburn Street, Sydney NSW.
- Enrol Here: www.positivedogs.com.au (or contact louise@positivedogs.com.au)
Target Audience: Professionals in Health or Education (e.g., Psychologists, OTs, Teachers, Social Workers) looking to incorporate their dog into their professional practice.
Course Options:
5-Day Intensive: Monday 13th April – Friday 17th April 2026 (Full-time school holiday block)
6-Week Typical: Starts Monday 20th April 2026 (One full day per week; see dates below)
Location: Online via Zoom (Practical assessments completed with local assessors nationwide).
Description: This professional certification prepares qualified clinicians and teachers to work safely and ethically with their dog in a clinical setting. The course covers canine body language, ethical considerations, and clinical case studies for Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT).
Note: This course is for professional practice, not for volunteers or assistance/service dog training.
Typical Course Dates: April 20, 27; (No class May 4); May 11, 18, 25.
More info & Bookings:
Highlights:
✔️ Emergency Response: Learn to recognise and plan for animal emergencies while minimising risks to yourself.
✔️ Practical Skills: Guidance on the humane capture and transport of injured animals.
✔️ Expert Guidance: Training provided by RSPCA NSW specialists at their Sydney Education Centre.
- When: 6 May 2026 | 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
- Where: RSPCA NSW Education Centre, 201 Rookwood Road, Yagoona, Sydney, NSW
- Cost: $205. There is also an online (self-paced) course available at a cost of $105.
- More info: RSPCA NSW Pet First Aid Registration
Discover the sport that all dogs love! K9 Nose Work®, or Scent Work, taps into your dog’s natural desire to hunt by teaching them to locate specific target odours. These courses are designed for dogs of all ages and breeds—from 3-month-old pups to seniors—and are particularly fantastic for shy or reactive dogs as only one dog works at a time.
You will learn how to guide your dog through "scent puzzles" across four distinct elements: Containers, Interior, Exterior, and Vehicles. Whether you are starting with food in the foundations course or advancing to target odours like Birch, Anise, and Clove, these classes open a door to your dog's secret sensory world.
Course Options: Introduction to K9 Nose Work (Foundations), Introduction to Odour, and Working with Odour & Beyond.
2026 Start Dates: Next Courses begin May 12/14, July 21/23, and September 29 / October 1.
Cost: $260 for a 6-week course.
Location: Ashbury Scout Hall, Cheviot St, Ashbury NSW.
Enrol Here: Visit
www.positivedogs.com.au
Theme: Connection, Collaboration, and Knowledge
The Australian Veterinary Association’s flagship national conference returns to Brisbane with an expanded program featuring over 40 sessions daily across 8 concurrent streams. The 2026 event has a strong focus on neurology and animal behaviour, bringing together world-renowned experts and local specialists. Highlights include the integrated THRIVE Veterinary Wellness sessions, a massive industry trade show, and the AVA Awards Gala Dinner.
International Keynotes:
Prof. Marion Desmarchelier (Canada): Specialist in animal behaviour and zoological medicine.
Prof. Holger A. Volk (Germany): Leading expert in small animal neurology.
Prof. Joe Mayhew (NZ): Specialist in equine and comparative neurology.
Prof. David Hayman (NZ): Infectious disease ecologist and epidemiologist.
Registration: Early bird rates are available until 1 April 2026, offering significant savings for AVA members and guests.
More info:
[PROFESSIONAL] September 9 -10, 2026 - The VET Expo 2026, Sydney (NSW)
Highlights:
✔️ 8 Accredited Tracks: Comprehensive sessions covering companion animals, nursing, and practice management.
✔️Innovation Hub: Showcasing over 30 ground-breaking start-ups in the Australian pet care sector.
✔️ Exhibition Floor: Live product demonstrations and networking with over 2,500 industry professionals.
✔️ Registration: Entry is free for practicing veterinary and animal health professionals who register in advance.
- Where: International Convention Centre (ICC), Sydney, NSW
- More info: The VET Expo 2026 Official Site
SAVE THE DATE! One of Australia’s most anticipated events for integrative animal health is returning to Melbourne on Saturday, October 31st, 2026.
Canine Masters 2026 is more than just a conference; it is a premier forum dedicated to advancing canine wellbeing through natural, science-backed practices. This event unites passionate dog lovers, veterinary professionals, and animal advocates for an unforgettable showcase of global expertise and nature-first innovation.
At a time when more pet parents are seeking genuine alternatives to symptom-focused care, Canine Masters provides the inspiration and education needed to lead the way in proactive canine health.
📢 Partnership Opportunities Now Available Planning is already well underway, and 50% of stall spaces are already sold. If your brand or business is aligned with proactive health, education, and informed care, now is the time to secure your place.
Venue: Live from The Capitol Theatre, Melbourne.
Enquiries: Reach out to Phivo Christodoulou at info@augustineapproved.com to learn more about partnering for this epic 2026 event.
- Face-to-Face Camp / Virtual Online Camp (Accessible anywhere).
- Registration: Expression of interest is now open! Early bird discounts will be available once dates are finalised.
- Enrol Here: Send an email to info@futurevetkidscamp.com to register your interest, or visit www.futurevetkidscamp.com
