People love dogs, and the number of dog-owning households increases steadily every year. The popularity of dog training shows such as Victoria Stillwell’s It’s Me or the Dog and the reality show Greatest American Dog has resulted in more dog owners pursuing training for their dogs. As a result, career opportunities for dog trainers, and especially certified dog trainers, are projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to increase at a faster-than-average rate over the next several years.
As the demand for dog training increases, trainers have the opportunity to pursue a number of career options. Dog trainers can be volunteers, employees, or entrepreneurs. There are dog training jobs available for a few hours a month, or several hours a day.
Becoming a Dog Trainer
Careers in dog training do not require formal education or certification. However certified dog trainers are eligible for the widest variety of dog training jobs. There are many dog training schools throughout the US and Canada, as well as a growing number of online dog training courses.
After completing the education requirements, dog trainer certification is available from organizations such as the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers, the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, or the International Association of Canine Professionals. One should also consider membership in a nationally-recognized dog training organization like the Association of Pet Dog Trainers or the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors.
Volunteering as a Dog Trainer
Many businesses and organizations would benefit from being able to offer the services of a certified dog trainer, but lack the funds to employ such a person. Dog trainers who want to volunteer can contact local groups and suggest programs if they are not already in place.
Animal shelters and breed rescue organizations could use a dog trainer to teach good manners to dogs in their care, increasing the chances of adoption. Vets, groomers, or boarding kennels might want to offer a monthly or bi-monthly dog training seminar to their clients, covering basic obedience or a series on common problems.
Dog Training Employment
Most dog training jobs involve teaching classes, and dog trainers can find employment in a number of venues. Some volunteer positions might lead to employment, as funding allows.
Parks and recreation departments often provide educational programs for residents, which might include a six- or eight-week dog training course(s). 4-H clubs offer classes on dog training, and there are some 4-H clubs devoted specifically to dog obedience. “Big box” pet supply stores are usually hiring dog trainers to teach their in-store classes, and provide on-the-job training. Most metropolitan areas also have dog training clubs; a certified dog trainer would have a higher chance of gaining employment in this type of job.
Entrepreneurial Dog Trainers
Establishing one’s own dog training business is likely the best way to make a living as a dog trainer. Certification is highly recommended for this pursuit, as is a basic understanding of business management. A self-employed dog trainer may offer group training classes, or work individually with an owner and their dog.
To save on overhead expenses, dog training classes can be held at veterinary offices or grooming shops after hours. Individual training can be done at the home of the owner or of the dog trainer. Careers in dog training for the self-employed take more time and education in non-training areas than other dog training careers, but can also offer the highest levels of income.
A variety of jobs are available for those interested in pursuing a career as a dog trainer. Certification can greatly improve one’s chances of obtaining a dog training job or owning a successful dog training business; however it is not required, especially for volunteer or part-time employment. Job opportunities for dog trainers have continuously increased as more and more people own dogs and seek out the services of a dog trainer.
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