Professional Dog Training School
The best way to start a career as a dog trainer is to attend a professional dog training school. There are many, so it's hard to tell which ones are legitimate. Any dog training school that offers certification should include a "hands-on" part to the program. This includes online schools.
-
Animal Behavioral College
-
Animal Behavior College is an online school that offers a certified dog trainer certificate course of study. Most of the coursework is done at home (see Resources).
National K-9 Learning Center
-
For an intensive master's course in professional dog training, a highly recognized school is the National K-9 Learning Center in Ohio. This is a six-week residential program (see Resources).
-
Choosing a School
-
Choose an accredited school. Check references to be sure they are legitimate. Inquire about the school's reputation with other professional dog trainers, the State Attorney General's Office, the Better Business Bureau and the International Association of Canine Professionals (see Resources).
Financial Aid
-
Some schools like Animal Behavior College offer limited financial aid. Most accredited schools offer some form of aid or payment plan.
Other Options
-
Some individuals pursue a degree in animal behavior instead of a certificate program.
-
Resources
- Photo Credit Wikimedia Commons