Jon BausmanHow to Become a Dog Trainer & Where to Start
Dog Trainer Basics
So, you are a dog lover and think a job working with them would be amazing, but an important question to also consider is, how do you feel about people?
When you become a dog trainer it usually means teaching dog owners to train their own dogs to solve their behavior problems. This means it’s important that you’re a people person as well as a dog person. You’ll also need to love learning, know how to run your own business, be patient, and be able to work with different training techniques and types of dogs.
If you’re thinking, “I like people and I LOVE dogs, let’s do this!” then here are some tips to get you started in the right direction.
Education
Self-Taught
According to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, “In general, those individuals employed as dog trainers are largely ‘self-educated.’ This means they have read extensively on behavior modification and dog ethology, attended seminars, workshops, and conventions, and perhaps mentored with other trainers.”
It’s not like going to vet school to become a veterinarian. The downside of this option is that if you’re new to dog training there can be subtle animal care techniques, body language, and cues that a new trainer may not know about when learning on their own. If taking the self-taught route, it’s best to find experienced trainers to practice with. It’s also a good idea to attend many workshops and seminars where you can practice your skills with assistance.
Apprenticeship
If you already know an experienced and qualified dog trainer, you can consider asking them if they’re willing to take you on as an apprentice. This is another approach that many professionals use when learning how to become a dog trainer.
Apprentices watch their mentors teach classes/private training, take notes, and gradually assist with larger portions of classes and training. This approach allows you to learn how to become a dog trainer under the supervision of an experienced professional that can provide feedback throughout the process.
Apprenticeships vary, some last six months to a year or longer, and some mentors may charge a fee for their time or have you work for free training dogs to learn the needed skills.
Dog Trainer Schools & Dog Training Courses
If you prefer a more formal type of education, with more structure and a guided curriculum, then a professional dog trainer school might be a good option for you. There are a number of dog trainers schools available for those looking to become a dog trainer. One example is the Animal Behavior College (ABC), which offers a number of certifications for those looking to join the pet industry.
According to ABC, “Dog trainers can enjoy a rewarding career. They train dogs, make a difference in dogs’ lives, and get paid to do what they love. Certified dog trainers can start their own dog training business, work for an established dog training company, or work in an animal shelter or pet store. If you’re interested in becoming a dog trainer, let Animal Behavior College help you. As a dog training school, we provide you with the education, practical skills, and hands-on experience needed to become a dog trainer. As a student, you have the opportunity to study from home and get real work experience within your area.”
Training is more than basic dog obedience. Look for a program that offers a comprehensive curriculum with training programs that include basic obedience, positive reinforcement training methods/operant conditioning, and dog psychology and behavior. If you want to specialize in training service dogs or being a behavior consultant, seek out a program designed for that. Hands-on training classes can be a good way to learn what it takes to become a dog trainer.
Get certified
The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) recommends the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. CCPDT is a professional organization “for the dog training profession. The CPDT is the leader in the development of rigorous exams to demonstrate mastery of humane, science-based dog training practices.” Many dog training professionals nationwide get certifications as a mark of professional distinction.
Practice, Practice, Practice!
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), “Dog training is very much a motor skill. Motor skills = things you do involve movements and muscles. For example: how you walk, hold a leash, hold your body when you call the dog to come. The only way to develop motor skills is by DOING the activity, and being shaped on by an instructor with skills, not reading about it. Dog training is a motor skill just like tennis and golf. Imagine how well you’d play tennis if all you had done was read about it and go to seminars.”
The skills to become a dog trainer take a lot of practice! Even small things like grabbing treats from your treat bag to reward a dog for good behavior can be tricky if you’re holding the leash of a very excited pup!
Looking for a way to gain training experience, practice your training skills, and study dog behavior with a variety of dogs? Try volunteering at your local dog rescue, animal shelter, or humane society.
Networking
Once you have the knowledge and skills down to be a self-employed professional trainer, it’s good to get out there and network with other dog trainers. Seminars, group classes, and conferences are also great resources on how to get your career or business started.
According to The Bark Magazine, “Conferences, seminars, and workshops are fantastic sources of knowledge as well as great networking opportunities. From two-hour evening seminars to weeklong conferences, there are enough educational events across the country to keep a trainer learning, meeting, and greeting all year long.”
For More Information On How To Become A Dog Trainer & Other Resources Visit The Association Of Professional Dog Trainers
