How to Become a Pet Dog Trainer
A love of dogs is a good start to becoming a pet dog trainer. However, you will find there's a lot to learn. Exceptional dog trainers understand how to work with anxious dogs, aggressive dogs, puppies, dogs that live in a pack and abused and neglected dogs. Exceptional dog trainers also know how to work with the owners of these dogs and have the business skills needed to make a living doing so.
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Instructions
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Take animal behavior and psychology courses from your local college. No matter the species of animal, the basics of behavior and techniques used to modify behavior, also known as animal training, are the same. College courses in animal behavior will give you a solid foundation for understanding and working with dog behaviors.
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Take basic business courses at your local college. This will help you set up a business plan so you can make dog training a paying job.
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Get certification from a professional animal or dog training organization. The Animal Behavior Society, the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants offer certifications. Each has its own set of requirements to meet, such as taking courses in ethology, animal behavior or comparative psychology, as well as work experience.
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Find a dog trainer you can work with, either as a paid assistant or a volunteer. Gaining hands-on experience is essential for becoming a dog trainer. By working with an established dog trainer you will also learn skills you may not have realized were necessary for a dog trainer. These skills include understanding and working with the owners and learning how to run a business. You can find dog trainers through veterinarian offices and local dog rescue groups or by searching the Association of Pet Dog Trainers website.
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References
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- Photo Credit dog image by Joanna Redesiuk from Fotolia.com
