How to Become a Licensed Dog Trainer

Working as a dog trainer can be very rewarding.

While there are no post-secondary educational requirements necessary for becoming a licensed dog trainer, you must obtain a great deal of book knowledge and hands-on experience for consideration to take the licensing examination given by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).

Instructions

1. Obtain high school diploma or its equivalent. Completion of a post-secondary degree program from an accredited educational institution is not required.

2. Gain knowledge and experience. Acquire the knowledge needed by reading books, attending seminars and watching DVDs. The CCPDT also provides a tutorial and sample demonstration test (see Resources) that is viewable online. This will give applicants an idea of the content of the licensing exam. Gain valuable experience by volunteering at a local shelter or mentoring under a licensed dog trainer.

3. Complete 300 hours teaching classes, providing dog training and working with dogs. These hours are documented by three references (veterinarian, client and colleague) in the examination application. At least 225 of the 300 hours must be actual teaching hours as an instructor or head trainer. The other 75 hours can be completed in other related areas such as dog grooming and working with sheltered canines.

4. Complete and file an application for the Certification Examination for Professional Dog Trainers - Knowledge Assessed. The application also includes a CCPDT Code of Ethics form that must be signed.

5. Take and pass the Certification Examination for Professional Dog Trainers -- Knowledge Assessed which is administered by the CCPDT. Applicants must also pay the required fee of $385 (as of 2010) and make check or money order payable to CCPDT Examination. Visa, American Express and MasterCard are also accepted.

References

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers

Resources

• Tutorial and Sample Demonstration Test