October 7–10, 2026 • Schaumburg, Illinois
The canine world is evolving, and so are the conversations that shape it. The CANIS Conference (Canine Advocacy, Networking, Innovation, and Science) is emerging as one of the most ambitious gatherings of the year for anyone invested in the future of dog training, behavior, veterinary care, shelter work, sport, and canine welfare. (CANIS Conference)
Powered by a coalition of leading organizations, including APDT International and AggressiveDog.com, CANIS aims to break down traditional silos in the field and create a unified platform that brings diverse disciplines into dialogue and collaboration. (CANIS Conference)
A Holistic Vision for the Canine Profession
What sets CANIS apart is its interdisciplinary scope. The event is designed not just as a series of talks, but as a movement, one that connects professionals across domains and encourages new ways of thinking about canine care. It’s built around a simple idea: if we want better outcomes for dogs, we need better connections across the systems that influence their lives. (CANIS Conference)
Over four days in October 2026, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge insights from science and practice, explore paradigm-shifting ideas, and gain practical tools they can apply in real-world settings. (CANIS Conference)
Who Should Attend (and Why)
CANIS isn’t limited to one corner of the industry. Trainers, behavior consultants, veterinarians, shelter staff, rescue leaders, sport handlers, and other pet professionals are all part of the conversation. Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise, broaden your network, or push the boundaries of canine welfare, this conference is structured to add value to your work. (CANIS Conference)
The event features multiple educational tracks, each tailored to a key pillar of canine care:
- Training & Learning Sciences
- Behavioral Science & Applied Psychology
- Veterinary & Neurological Advances
- Shelter, Rescue & Non-Profit Impact
- Canine Sports & Performance (CANIS Conference)
This structure allows professionals to explore both depth and breadth, from technical methodologies to systemic challenges facing dogs and the people who work with them every day.
World-Class Speakers, Real Conversations
The CANIS lineup includes thought leaders, researchers, and practitioners whose work is shaping the field. Keynotes and stage sessions are designed to bridge domains – for example, bringing veterinary behavior perspectives into dialogue with training practice, and challenge attendees to think expansively about their roles. (CANIS Conference)
Sessions will spotlight research, applied science, humane practice, and innovative frameworks that elevate how we understand and support dogs throughout their lives.
Education, Community, and Growth
Beyond stage presentations, CANIS offers workshops, hands-on sessions, and networking opportunities that foster professional growth and community building. Whether you’re onsite in Schaumburg or participating via livestream and on-demand access, the event is structured to make learning accessible and actionable. (K9NoseWork.com)
Many attendees also pursue continuing education units (CEUs), making CANIS a practical investment in professional development as well as a space for inspiration and connection. (puppyworks.com)
Why This Matters Now
The challenges and opportunities facing the canine world are increasingly complex. Advances in science, expanding roles for behavior and welfare professionals, and shifting cultural expectations around how we care for animals call for new forms of collaboration. CANIS recognizes that no single discipline holds all the answers, but together, we can approach them more thoughtfully, effectively, and humanely. (CANIS Conference)
For professionals committed to both evidence and empathy, this conference isn’t just an event, it’s a chance to participate in shaping the future of the field.