Can You Make a Living as a Dog Trainer?

If you’re passionate about dogs and love helping them become well-behaved, obedient pets, then a career as a dog trainer might be right up your alley. But can you actually make a living as a dog trainer? The answer is a resounding yes! With the right training, skills, and experience, you can turn your passion for dogs into a lucrative and fulfilling career.

Why Become a Dog Trainer?

Becoming a dog trainer offers a unique combination of personal and professional rewards. On a personal level, you’ll have the opportunity to work with dogs every day and help improve their lives. You’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re making a positive impact on the lives of dog owners and their families. On a professional level, you’ll have the freedom to set your own schedule, work with a variety of clients, and earn a good income. And as the demand for dog training services continues to grow, the opportunities for career advancement are limitless.

What Does it Take to Become a Dog Trainer?

Becoming a dog trainer requires a combination of education, experience, and certification. There are several paths to becoming a dog trainer, but the most common include:

• Formal education: Some dog trainers choose to pursue a formal education in animal behavior or a related field. This can be done through a college or university program, or through online courses. While formal education is not required to become a dog trainer, it can provide a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that can be applied to your work.
• On-the-job training: Many dog trainers start their careers by working for a dog training company or as an assistant to an experienced trainer. This on-the-job training provides hands-on experience working with dogs and learning from experienced trainers.
• Certification: There are several organizations that offer certification for dog trainers, including the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). Certification demonstrates a commitment to professional standards and provides recognition for your expertise and skills as a dog trainer.

What Does a Dog Trainer Do?

A dog trainer is responsible for helping dogs and their owners improve their relationship and resolve behavior issues. This can involve working with dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments, and may include training for obedience, agility, and other activities. As a dog trainer, you’ll need to have excellent communication skills, as well as the ability to assess a dog’s behavior and develop a customized training plan to meet their individual needs.

In addition to working with dogs, you’ll also be working with their owners. This can involve educating owners on how to effectively communicate with their dogs, and providing guidance on how to maintain and reinforce the training you’ve provided. You’ll need to be able to build rapport with your clients and be able to explain complex training concepts in a way that is easy for them to understand.

How Much Can You Earn as a Dog Trainer?

The earning potential for dog trainers varies depending on several factors, including your level of experience, your location, and the type of services you offer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for animal trainers was $30,530 in May 2019. However, many dog trainers earn significantly more than this, with top earners earning over $50,000 per year.

In addition to a steady income, dog trainers also have the potential to earn additional income through private training sessions, group classes, and workshops. And as you build a reputation as an expert in your field, you may also have the opportunity to write books, create training videos, or speak at conferences, further increasing your earning potential.

Is a Career as a Dog Trainer Right for You?

If you’re passionate about dogs, enjoy working with people, and have a strong desire to help improve the lives of dogs and their owners, then a career as a dog trainer might be the perfect fit for you. With the right training, skills, and experience, you can turn your passion for dogs into a lucrative and fulfilling career that offers endless opportunities for growth and advancement.

So, if you’re ready to take the leap and pursue your dream of becoming a dog trainer, now is the time to get started. Enroll in a training program, start working with dogs, and take the necessary steps to become certified. With hard work and determination, you can make a living doing what you love and make a positive impact on the lives of dogs and their owners.

So, what are you waiting for? Unleash your potential and start your journey as a dog trainer today!