Key Takeaways
- Dog training involves more than just dogs: It requires strong people skills, as trainers work closely with owners, providing guidance and support. Consider the emotional and physical demands of the profession before diving in.
- Practical experience is key: Working with a variety of dogs in different settings builds essential skills and confidence. Explore opportunities like training your own dog, volunteering at a shelter, or apprenticing with a professional.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest training methods: Continuing education is crucial in the ever-evolving field of dog training. Seek out reputable certifications, courses, and resources that emphasize positive reinforcement techniques.
1) Understand what being a dog trainer entails
It’s important you understand what you’re getting into before you commit to becoming a dog trainer. While every individual training business will have a different approach and serve their own unique clients, you should know a few core things.
Dog trainers work daily with dogs
This should come as no surprise. Dog trainers, of course, spend much of their time working with a variety of dogs!
Pet professionals who also offer boarding services on top of hosting classes or teaching individual private lessons invest even more of their waking hours into caring for their canine pupils. (Many dog trainers watch their clients’ dogs when their families go out of town. Some also offer board-and-train programs to kickstart the training process.)
This daily work directly with dogs can involve tasks like:
Dog trainers also work closely with a variety of different people
Something that’s less well understood about dog trainers: They don’t only work with dogs. Dog trainers are ultimately service workers! Many canine professionals get into the industry because they love animals… and are surprised to realize how much of their day is dedicated to communicating with the human end of the leash.
Depending on the types of services you decide to offer as a trainer, you might spend even more time interacting with pet parents than their actual dogs. This means it’s important you enjoy coaching people! (Deciding to become a dog trainer because you feel that “dogs are better than humans” probably isn’t a great idea. You need to be a people person too.)
Here are just a few of the ways dog trainers provide support to owners:
- Teaching key concepts during training classes and private lessons. The better job you do laying the foundation, the easier it will be for your pet parent clients to complete their homework and continue training on their own.
- Offering constructive feedback in class or remotely through email, phone calls, and text messages.
- Customizing training plans to individual lifestyles and goals. Every dog, owner, and lifestyle is different!
- Processing emotions—especially when dogs struggle with behavioral issues that can put strain on human relationships. Sometimes dog trainers play the role of therapist. (It’s important to take care of your own mental health, too.)
There are several types of dog trainers
Aspiring dog trainers might choose to specialize in different things. While every professional dog trainer should understand basic learning theory (operant conditioning, classical conditioning, canine cognition) and have some general practical skills (more on education later), there are multiple directions you can take your knowledge!
If you start your own business, you’ll be able to choose firsthand which clients you want to take on. If you join an existing franchise, you’ll have less control (but more support from your superiors). The right fit is up to you.
Some professional dog training companies focus on:
Specialization Options for Dog Trainers
As mentioned, dog trainers can specialize in different areas. Some trainers love working with small dogs and puppies, while others prefer the challenge of large breed dog training. Some focus on basic obedience, while others specialize in reactivity or aggression. Finding your niche can help you build a successful training business by attracting the clients you enjoy working with most.
For example, if you have a passion for helping reactive dogs, you could focus on building a program specifically for them. This allows you to tailor your training methods and tools to address the unique challenges these dogs and their owners face. Partnering with local businesses like Sniffspot to offer private training sessions in safe, controlled environments could also be beneficial for your business and your clients.
Other specialization options include:
The possibilities are endless! The key is to identify your strengths and interests, then build your skills and experience in those areas. This will not only make you a more effective trainer, but also a happier one.
Dog training can be emotionally and physically draining
Dog training is an incredibly rewarding career. Many pet professionals can’t imagine doing anything els. Knowing you helped a client accomplish their goals is an amazing feeling! As a trainer, you have the opportunity to change both canine and human lives for the better.
It’s important to know that dog training isn’t all rainbows and competition ribbons and behavior modification success stories, though. Depending on the type of dog training you decide to pursue, the profession can be grueling both emotionally and physically.
Emotional Challenges of Professional Dog Training:
- Dog training can impact your social outings and work-life balance. You might have to work unusual hours or factor in travel commitments (especially if you offer in-person lessons at client homes).
- Dog owners might place lofty expectations on trainers—when in reality a dog’s success is a shared responsibility.
- Even when you do your best for every dog you work with, you won’t be able to control the outcome. So much depends on the owners and environment and factors out of your influence.
- Dog trainers might be faced with severe behavioral cases they aren’t able to help. It’s difficult to turn away clients in need.
- Behavioral euthanasia is sometimes the most humane option for dogs and pet parents who are deeply suffering. This is a difficult conversation for everyone involved.
Physical Demands of Professional Dog Training:
- Dog trainers spend a lot of the day on their feet. During hands-on training, they run around, bend over, manage leashes, wrangle long lines, play with dogs who might be very strong… The list goes on.
- Working with dogs, especially fear or aggression cases, always comes with the risk of being bitten. Proper knowledge and preventative steps can go a long way here! But it’s important to keep caution in mind.
2) Get some hands-on training experience around different dogs
If dog training still sounds like an appealing career after understanding the commitment, it’s time to get your feet (or should we say paws) wet working with some four-legged students.
Train your own dog!
Training your own dog is a great first step for many aspiring dog trainers. You get to play the role of both trainer and owner, which helps you understand what it’s like to work with a pet you consider part of the family.
In fact, many professional dog trainers are in the industry because at some point they ended up with a challenging dog of their own—perhaps a fearful rescue who struggled with reactivity—and fell in love with the art and science of dog training as a result. These hours of experience training, troubleshooting, and adjusting in the moment can provide a solid foundation to embark on your new career.
Is Training Your Own Dog Enough to Be a Professional?
Note that training your own dog does not mean it’s appropriate to go out and call yourself a dog trainer. It does mean you’re one step closer to working with other dogs and owners!
Can You Become a Dog Trainer Without a Dog?
If you don’t have a dog of your own right now? Don’t fret. That doesn’t preclude you from becoming a dog trainer so long as you’re passionate about the career. There are many lifestyle variables that might mean it’s not the best choice to open your home to a long-term animal resident right now—but you could still be able to offer your services to other clients.
Offer to help your family and friends with their dogs
A logical next step after working with your own dog (or if you don’t have a dog of your own to practice with) is to reach out to family and friends to see if they need help with their own pets. This will expose you to a greater range of behavior and environments in a causal, low-stress way.
Make sure to be transparent with your connections that you’re not an established professional yet. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a more experienced trainer if you encounter any behavioral cases!
Some ways to get started interacting with more dogs include:
- Offer to walk your neighbors’ dogs
- Start pet sitting on the side
- Help your family choose a behavior to work on with their dog (maybe they need help with mild leash pulling or refining recall) and help them teach it
Volunteer to work with dogs at your local shelter
Volunteering at your local shelter can be a great way to encounter even more different dogs and make a difference to pets in need as you continue to grow your skills. Humane societies and animal shelters around the country have different requirements, so check with your nearby organizations for next steps.
Remember that shelters can be stressful environments for both dogs and humans. Make sure to attend any recommended courses. Follow directions closely and always defer to staff instructions. This is a great way to get valuable experience—as time goes on, you’ll be able to make more of an impact and provide experienced advice.
Seek Out Apprenticeships or Shadowing Opportunities
One of the best ways to gain hands-on experience is through apprenticeships or shadowing opportunities. These allow you to learn directly from experienced trainers, observe their techniques, and gradually take on more responsibility. Think of it as a mentorship where you can ask questions, get feedback, and build confidence in a real-world setting. Finding a local trainer you admire and asking to volunteer or shadow them offers invaluable insight into the profession.
Some training schools or organizations offer formal apprenticeship programs. For example, Motley Zoo Animal Rescue in Redmond, WA, has a free dog training apprenticeship. While not a certified course, it provides valuable hands-on experience working directly with rescue dogs, learning dog handling, safety, sanitation, and core training skills. Even if a formal program isn't available, reaching out to local trainers and expressing your interest can sometimes lead to informal shadowing opportunities. It never hurts to ask!
Remember, gaining hands-on experience working with a variety of dogs is crucial for developing your skills and building your confidence as a dog trainer. Apprenticeships and shadowing are excellent avenues for achieving this, providing a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
3) Dive into dog training theory (and stay up to date with continuing education)
At the same time you’re getting hands-on experience with different dogs, you should be investing in your conceptual education, too. Theory and practice go hand in hand! Neither works without the other in a profession like dog training—it’s a mixture of both art and science.
Some ways to grow your knowledge about dogs:
- Attend seminars hosted by well-regarded professional trainers
- Subscribe to online content provided by a reputable force free organization
- Consider going to a professional trainer’s dog training school, like the Karen Pryor Academy
- Learn how to analyze scientific studies about dog training methods
- Read books written by established dog trainers, ethologists, and other canine professionals
Dog training theory is complex. (We’ve summed up some initial concepts in this article.) Here are a few things to look for as you start consuming content and learning training techniques:
- Look for certified dog training professionals with years of experience. (More on certification below.)
- Avoid pet professionals who aren’t willing to talk about the evolution of training principles over time. Modern animal training is much different than it was even just a few decades ago.
- Be wary of anyone who talks about dominating dogs, using force, or depriving our canine companions of basic needs like food and social interaction. You want to look for humane training resources.
- Understand that we can’t expect dogs to automatically understand our social norms. (“Good” and “bad” behavior are subjective!)
This list of resources can be a helpful place to start growing your dog training knowledge!
Recommended Educational Resources
Ready to dive into the world of dog training education? Here are some resources to get you started. Keep in mind that the field of canine training and behavior is constantly evolving, so ongoing learning is essential.
Books and Articles
Books and articles can be a fantastic starting point for learning about dog training. Look for authors who are certified professional dog trainers, ethologists, certified applied animal behaviorists, or other canine professionals with relevant credentials. Organizations like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) offer helpful resources to guide your search. For example, the CCPDT provides a recommended reading list covering various aspects of dog training and behavior.
Online Courses and Programs
Several reputable organizations offer online and in-person dog training courses and programs. These can provide a more structured learning experience. The Karen Pryor Academy (KPA) is known for its science-based, force-free curriculum and has locations worldwide. The Academy of Pet Careers (APC) also offers programs leading to nationally recognized certification. Research different programs to find one that aligns with your learning style and career goals. Look for programs accredited by reputable organizations, such as the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
Understanding Different Training Philosophies
Not all dog training methods are created equal. It’s crucial to understand the different training philosophies and choose an approach that prioritizes the dog's well-being and uses ethical, effective techniques. As you research educational resources, pay close attention to the training methodologies they advocate.
Force-Free and Positive Reinforcement Methods
Force-free training, also known as positive reinforcement training, focuses on rewarding desired behaviors and avoiding the use of punishment, intimidation, or pain. This approach builds a positive relationship between dog and owner, promotes cooperation, and fosters a love of learning. Many resources explain the principles of force-free training in detail. Look for programs, like those offered by the Academy of Pet Careers, that emphasize these humane, science-backed methods. Organizations like the Pet Professional Guild champion force-free training and offer valuable resources for pet owners and professionals.
Aversive Training Techniques to Avoid
Some training programs still rely on outdated and potentially harmful aversive techniques. These methods often involve using punishment or intimidation to suppress unwanted behaviors. Be wary of programs that use terms like “pack mentality,” “dominance,” or “alpha” to justify their methods. These concepts are based on misinterpretations of wolf behavior and can damage the dog-owner relationship and create fear and anxiety in dogs. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) provides further information on why dominance-based training should be avoided. Prioritize force-free methods that focus on building trust and cooperation.
4) Consider getting certified as a professional dog trainer
You technically don’t need any sort of formal education or certification to call yourself a dog trainer in the United States. There are no regulations on the field—and some national certification organizations pose accessibility issues that can gate keep the industry from otherwise talented, dedicated professionals.
That said: If you’re able to, it’s a good idea to pursue a well-regarded dog training program. The top successful dog trainers take their education seriously and want to help owners make sense of the confusing landscape. Completing a certification can be a great test of your skills. Passing a rigorous exam lets you know you’re ready to offer your services to other owners in good faith—and it can make your expertise clear to potential clients, too.
Here are a few options for training certification, professional membership, and continuing education courses for force free trainers:
Certification Options and Requirements
CPDT-KA Certification
One of the most common certifications in the United States is the Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) title from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). To earn the CPDT-KA certification, you’ll need to complete at least 300 hours of dog training experience in the past three years and pass a 180-question multiple-choice exam. The CCPDT website has helpful information about eligibility requirements and exam prep.
Other Reputable Certifications
The CPDT-KA certification is a good starting point, but other reputable certifications are also available. Many professional training schools offer their own in-house certifications upon program completion. It’s a good idea to do your research and find a program that aligns with your training philosophy and career goals. This article on how to become a dog trainer can help you find a program that’s a good fit.
Benefits of Certification
Passing a rigorous exam like the CPDT-KA or completing a certification program from a respected organization gives you confidence that you’re ready to offer your services to clients. Plus, these credentials clearly communicate your expertise to potential clients. Certification shows your commitment to professional development and staying up-to-date with the latest training methods. It also demonstrates you’ve invested the time and effort to meet industry standards, giving pet parents peace of mind when they entrust their beloved canine companions to your care.
See if any trainers near you are looking for part-time employees or apprentices
One way to set yourself up for success as a dog trainer is to apprentice under someone who is an expert at the craft. An owner or employee of a dog training company will be able to guide you through all aspects of training dogs professionally—from actual nitty-gritty training concepts, to different types of services and pricing, to setting up your own business, and more.
Some dog trainers offer specific mentorship programs where they take on anywhere from one to several students at a time. Other relationships happen more organically, like when a long-time attendee of a trainer’s classes expresses an interest in joining the profession. You can also consider looking for part-time jobs to get your foot in the door with an initial career opportunity.
This is a great next step once you’ve obtained knowledge about learning theory, dog body language, and training mechanics. Here’s to you and your future animal training endeavors!
5) Build Your Dog Training Business (or Find Employment)
Business Aspects of Dog Training
Successfully training dogs requires more than just a love for our canine companions and knowledge of positive reinforcement methods. You also need business skills. Most dog trainers are self-employed, which means you’ll be responsible for everything from marketing and scheduling, to accounting and customer service. Be prepared for irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, as that’s when many clients are available for sessions. Income can also be variable, especially when you’re first starting out, so don’t expect a high salary initially.
Setting Up Your Own Business
If you decide to set up your own business, you’ll have complete control over your brand, services, and pricing. This can be incredibly rewarding, allowing you to tailor your offerings to your specific interests and target audience. However, it also means you’re responsible for all aspects of running the business, from obtaining necessary licenses and permits to managing finances and marketing your services. Creating a solid business plan is crucial for success.
Finding Employment Opportunities
If the thought of running your own business feels overwhelming, there are other employment opportunities available. Many established dog training businesses are often looking for skilled trainers to join their team. The Academy of Pet Careers (APC), for example, offers online and in-person dog training programs that lead to nationally recognized certification and provides job placement assistance. They even have partnerships with several Washington state dog training businesses, making it easier to find employment after completing their program. You can also explore opportunities at local pet stores, animal shelters, or even dog parks like Sniffspot.
Networking and Mentorship
Connecting with other trainers is invaluable, whether you’re starting your own business or seeking employment. Joining online groups and attending industry events can provide opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, share best practices, and stay updated on the latest training techniques. Finding a mentor can provide personalized guidance and support as you navigate the challenges of building a career in dog training. Don’t underestimate the power of community!
6) Washington State Specific Information for Dog Trainers
If you’re looking to become a dog trainer in Washington State, here’s some specific information to keep in mind:
Licensing Requirements
Currently, there’s no state-mandated license required to be a dog trainer in Washington. However, obtaining professional certification, such as the one offered by the Academy of Pet Careers, can significantly enhance your credibility and demonstrate your commitment to professional development. While not legally required, certification can be a valuable asset when seeking employment or attracting clients.
Average Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Academy of Pet Careers, the average salary for a dog trainer in Washington is around $53,780. However, this figure can vary based on factors like experience, location, and specialization. The job outlook for animal care and service workers, including dog trainers, is projected to grow, indicating a positive trend for those pursuing this career path.
Trainer Review of this Article
There is so much misinformation out there, and we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. The science of animal behavior is complex. The more seriously we take it—as pet professionals and everyday dog owners—the better! We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers.
This is the trainer that reviewed this article:
Emily Fitzpatrick
VSA-CDT
Owner and Head Trainer | Misunderstood Mutt
/fit-in/0x450/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/sniffspot_female_dog_trainer_standing_next_to_dog_photorealisti_be025d01-2bc2-4269-882e-04a10219f61b.png)
/fit-in/0x128/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/shutterstock_389134588.jpg)
/fit-in/0x128/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/portland.jpg)
/fit-in/0x128/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/offleashdogparks.png)
/fit-in/0x128/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_1223036338.jpg)
/fit-in/0x128/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock-627476036_orig.jpg)
/fit-in/0x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/shutterstock_389134588.jpg)
/fit-in/0x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/portland.jpg)
/fit-in/0x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/offleashdogparks.png)
/fit-in/0x128/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/shutterstock_389134573-1.jpg)
/fit-in/0x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/shutterstock_389134573-1.jpg)
/fit-in/0x128/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/shutterstock_156165332.jpg)
/fit-in/0x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/shutterstock_156165332.jpg)
/fit-in/0x128/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/sniffspot_female_dog_trainer_standing_next_to_dog_photorealisti_be025d01-2bc2-4269-882e-04a10219f61b.png)
/fit-in/0x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/sniffspot_female_dog_trainer_standing_next_to_dog_photorealisti_be025d01-2bc2-4269-882e-04a10219f61b.png)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/bernese-mountain-dog-208092_1280.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/shutterstock_543831754.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/shutterstock_494495788-1.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/shutterstock_237584221-1.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/shutterstock_705844504.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/dogwaterpark.png)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/shutterstock_174836186.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/shutterstock_1346929262.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/dogexercisecalculatorfeaturedimage.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/bb.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screen-Shot-2024-05-23-at-9.33.57-PM.png)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/dogreactivitychartfeaturedimage.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/shutterstock_523383649.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/a.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/shutterstock_796422001.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Sniffspot_infographic_1-01.jpeg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Final-Edit-003-1.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/good-photo-3_orig.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/sniffspot-28-of-45-1.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/screen-shot-2019-09-19-at-2-01-47-pm_orig.png)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/indoordogparks.png)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/offleashdogparks.png)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/vegas.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/portland.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/German-Shepherd-Dog.png)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screen-Shot-2024-07-24-at-4.06.05-PM.png)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screen-Shot-2024-07-25-at-3.05.09-PM.png)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/staffy.jpg)
/354x256/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screen-Shot-2024-07-25-at-3.39.43-PM.png)
/354x256/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1282/178507e67e44-MC_logo_square.jpg){kind=logo}
/354x256/Photos/SeoDogRescue/931/cef8bbb17769-South_Coast_Humane_Society.png)
/354x256/Photos/SeoDogRescue/61/30aea3371b69-MainSquare_2.png)
/354x256/Photos/SeoDogRescue/298/1000035238.jpg)
/354x256/Photos/SeoDogRescue/814/91cfd62cd986-IMG_1035.jpeg)
