NEW ZEALAND'S FIRST ACCREDITED ACADEMY FOR DOG HANDLING
Proudly NZQA-accredited
The National Dog Handling Academy is New Zealand’s leading formal educational institution for the training and certification of dog-handlers.
STUDY. HANDLE. LEAD.
LEARN TO BE A FULLY QUALIFIED DOG HANDLER
The National Dog Handling Academy (NDHA) is the only NZQA-accredited training pathway designed specifically for qualifying dog handling professionals. Our mission is to raise industry standards by providing structured, progressive qualifications that combine classroom learning with hands-on pack handling.
OUR DOG HANDLING COURSES
JUNIOR HANDLER QUALIFICATION
4 WEEKS
50
LEARNING HOURS
Entry into the dog handling industry, preparing those for kennel & boarding positions. This course is a mix of hands-on dog handling & online modules.
INTERMEDIATE QUALIFICATION
8 WEEKS
100
LEARNING HOURS
8 weeks of hands-on in person dog handling & online modules that focus’s on & prepares you for professional leadership in full-time dog handling roles in like off-lead pack walking in public & private spaces.
SENIOR HANDLER QUALIFICATION
12 WEEKS
150
LEARNING HOURS
Fully equipped to be an independent professional handler or in a management role. Train, mentor & supervise other handlers. This is a full qualification in dog handling & is mostly hands-on learning.
MEET OUR GRADUATES
FRED
SENIOR DOG HANDLER GRADUATE
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INTAKE DATES
FEBRUARY 26
7 SLOTS LEFT
APPLICATION CLOSE: 27 JAN 2026
START: 3 Feb 2026
LOCATION: Auckland
AUGUST 26
EARLY ACCESS
APPLICATION CLOSE: 27 July 2026
START: 3 August 2026
LOCATION: Auckland
HOW TO APPLY
Applying can be daunting. Our admissions team will work 1 on 1 with you to answer all your questions. We’re here to help you understand the courses and fees. As well as help you understand what these qualifications entail.
STEP 1
FILL IN AN APPLICATION FORM
You can apply online by clicking the apply now button, or give us a call at 021 335 446.
STEP 2
WE’LL GIVE YOU A CALL
After applying online we will give you a call to answer any questions, discuss fees and talk about your goals and ambitions.
STEP 3
ACCEPT YOUR OFFER & ENROL
Once you’ve had a chat with us and we’ve sent you your offer, sign and return it and get ready for your first day of dog handling!
COURSE PHOTOS
The in-person sessions are a combination of outdoor hands-on training with a pack of dogs, followed by in-class reflection during the final portion of the day to consolidate what we’ve learned.