So you're ready to turn your love for dogs into a career in Washington state? Fantastic! This guide breaks down exactly how to become a dog trainer in Washington state. From certification and education to launching your own dog training business, we'll cover it all. Plus, we'll point you towards resources specifically for Washington, so you can confidently take the next step toward your dream dog trainer jobs near me. Let's get started!
If you’ve been thinking about pursuing a career as a dog trainer, this guide is for you. Maybe you fell in love with the idea while working your own pet dog through a training program for behavioral struggles. Maybe you’ve been watching one too many episodes of your favorite reality dog training TV show. Maybe you think it’s a great way to turn your lifelong love for animals into a rewarding career.
Here’s everything you need to know about becoming a professional dog trainer!
Read on for what the dog training profession entails, how you can get hands-on experience with training techniques, the importance of continuing education as the canine cognition field evolves, and more.
There is no one-size-fits-all process to becoming a dog trainer. Pet professionals get started down their career paths in different ways!
That said, here are some general guidelines to follow if you’re new to the idea of training dogs as your job.
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.
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:
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:
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:
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 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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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:
This list of resources can be a helpful place to start growing your dog training knowledge!
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
If you’re looking to become a dog trainer in Washington State, here’s some specific information to keep in mind:
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.
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.
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
What’s the difference between working with my own dog and being a professional dog trainer? Training your own dog is a great starting point, but it doesn't qualify you to be a professional. Client dogs will present unique challenges, and working with their owners requires strong communication and people skills. Professional training involves understanding diverse learning styles, handling different temperaments, and adapting to various environments. It also includes the business aspects of running a dog training operation.
Is certification necessary to become a dog trainer? While not legally required in the United States, certification demonstrates your commitment to professional standards and can significantly boost your credibility with clients. It shows you've invested time and effort in learning ethical, effective training methods. Certification can also open doors to more job opportunities and potentially higher earnings.
What if I don't have a dog of my own? Can I still become a dog trainer? Absolutely! While having your own dog provides valuable experience, it's not a prerequisite. Volunteering at shelters, offering to help friends and family with their dogs, or pursuing apprenticeships can provide the necessary hands-on experience. Focus on building your knowledge of dog behavior and training techniques through reputable resources.
What are some reputable resources for learning about dog training? Look for organizations that emphasize force-free, positive reinforcement methods. The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), the Karen Pryor Academy, and the Academy of Pet Careers are good places to start. Be wary of programs that promote dominance theory or aversive techniques. Prioritize resources that align with modern, ethical training practices.
What are the different career paths available to dog trainers? You can start your own business, giving you control over your services and brand. Alternatively, you can seek employment with established dog training companies, pet stores, or animal shelters. Some trainers specialize in specific areas like puppy training, reactivity, or competition obedience. Networking and mentorship can help you explore different career options and find the path that best suits your interests and goals.
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* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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