How to Become a Dog Trainer

A dog trainer works directly with your pet to teach them different commands and teaches owners how to use these commands. We enjoy our 4-legged friends at home. To work with them everyday could be an enjoyable, realistic career. No specific degree is required, and you can use many different ways to approach becoming a trainer.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Consider college programs that offer undergraduate studies in animal behavior. Confirm that the classes also include hands-on experience.

2. Increase your knowledge about dogs. Read books and magazines and watch videos often. Make sure they cover an assortment of subjects.

3. Research pet training schools to enroll in to become a dog trainer. Check the credentials and references since many are not regulated.

4. Become qualified through Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). This is a formal program that you receive official certification. You must have at least 300 hours specific to training in the past 5 years, a high school diploma or equivalent and references. Then, fill out the application and take the exam to be certified.

5. Volunteer at animal shelters, veterinarians or choose to be an apprentice of another teacher. This experience will increase your understanding of their behaviors that can't necessarily be taught in books.

6. Attend conferences and seminars. Scan the options and choose seminars or classes that interest you. Ask those in the same area of expertise or veterinarians for recommendations.

7. Review the standards of the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors. You can get an overview of expected qualifications to aim toward. Experience includes having a minimum of 5 years in obedience training, 2 years as an instructor, or a history of working with over 100 pets.

Resources

• Visit the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.