Beyond Dog Massage FAQS about Courses

Students do not need to own a dog.  However, students do need access to a dog that can be used during online courses, and during independent practice time throughout the week.

Students need to be comfortable working with dogs and be able to “read” the dog to know when the dog needs a break.  If students have limited experience with dogs, working with a trainer may ensure pleasant and productive experiences for both student and dog!

Both online and in-person courses will use the Beyond Dog Massage book.  Students should have reviewed the book prior to attending courses.  You can purchase the book on The Masterson Method® Store https://mastersonmethod.com/product/beyond-dog-massage-book/

The online Beyond Dog Massage Read and Release course is the first course in the education pathway.  All future courses require students to have successfully completed the previous course in the education pathway.  Successful completion includes participating during class discussions and technique practice, completing assigned homework, practicing techniques outside of classroom time, and demonstrating skills proficiency expected for that course level.  

Once students enroll in an online course, they will receive a confirmation email of their enrollment, along with pertinent course information.  The first week’s assignment will be included in the confirmation email.

Please refer to the Beyond Dog Massage Cancellation and Transfer Fees policy.

For some dogs with acute health consultations, it may not be in the dog’s best interest to be the dog used during the learning process.   Special needs dogs may benefit more by receiving short sessions with limited techniques applied. A dog without serious illnesses or health consultations would be most appropriate to be used as a “learning dog”.  If you are unsure your dog should participate as a learning dog, please check with your dog’s veterinarian.

Using a simple dog collar will be helpful to keep your dog close by when practicing the different techniques.

Prong collars, choke collars, muzzles, or body harnesses are not appropriate dog equipment during classes.  These types of gear make it difficult to read the responses from the dog and may prevent the dog from fully responding to the techniques.

The Masterson Method® logos can only be used when the person is certified in that coursework.  Until certification is earned, the use of logos is prohibited.  At the time you become certified as a Masterson Method Certified Practitioner – Canine, you can begin using the canine logo. 

Yes!  We are working on a certification pathway.  Read and Release is the first course and it is mandatory before moving onto next courses.

All students will start with the online Read and Release course and progress through the remaining courses in the program.

You will still need to go through the full certification pathway to become a Masterson Method Certified Practitioner – Canine.  All students start at the Read and Release course.

We are always encouraged when the younger generation is interested in canine welfare and learning this approach to bodywork. Depending on the age of the student, adult supervision may be required or they may be too young to attend. Please inquire at for more information.

We currently offer courses that fulfill one educational requirement of The Masterson Method Canine Certification program. At this time, the full certification program has not been released.

In the future, students that will have demonstrated proficiency and successfully completed all educational requirements may then legitimately promote themselves as a Masterson Method Certified Practitioner Canine.