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Step 1
Select a legitimate and respected apprenticeship program. Mail order or online apprenticeship programs are not highly regarded by professional trainers, and they don't require any type of live evaluation of skills by professional trainers. Accredited apprenticeship training schools are offered in every state. Some professional animal trainers will agree to offer individual training in less urban areas. The duration of the program depends on the professional trainer's requirements, but typically the program lasts at least four months. The Animal Behavior College is the largest training center for canine-related educational programs and certificates.
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Step 2
Studying the basics of canine care is the first aspect of dog training an apprentice will learn. Understanding the various personalities of specific breeds, developmental learning stages of a dog's life span, health needs and establishing routine exercise, warning signs of diseases, and socialization techniques and needs are all covered during the initial phase of apprenticeship.
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Step 3
Learning behavioral theory through research and animal interaction is the second stage of apprenticeship. Students will be introduced to the foundational principles of dog behavior theory and responses. The use of "clicker" training is also introduced during this two-week aspect of the training. A training aid, which makes a clicking sound, is used to gain the dog's attention and redirect the animal from improper behaviors.
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Step 4
Participating in a two-week training basics and training tools instruction is a part of the secondary level of training. Apprentices will learn to use training aids such as clickers, walking leashes and interactive toys to train dogs. During this phase of the training, students will also learn how to establish a relationship of trust with the dogs being trained.
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Step 5
Establishing the skills to teach basic obedience with standard and easy-to-understand cues will be covered for about 30 days. The apprentice will learn how to teach dogs basic commands through positive motivational techniques. Problem solving and animal safety are the final aspects of the hands-on apprenticeship course.
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Step 6
Problem-solving skills and tips will be learned during a hands-on training component once the course is completed. After the apprentice completes the basics of training, most professional trainers will require the apprentice to participate in some type of public speaking or group interaction event. The shelter practicum, which is a mandatory part of most professional training courses, lasts about 20 weeks. The practicum is routinely held in a local dog shelter or animal rescue center. New trainers work with the animals under the guidance of a trained staff member. After the completion of the required components of the apprenticeship, a final examination is required.
