Dog training is an incredibly rewarding career. If you asked different trainers how they got into this field, you would receive a variety of answers. People enter this business for different reasons, from a love of animals (or dogs in particular) to having a deep understanding of dogs, or simply a genuine desire to help others. It’s important to remember that, for the most part, training is a “service” occupation. This means you are often working with people who happen to have dogs. In other words, while you work with animals, your primary focus is working with people. You could say that you have to train the person first, before you can train the dog!
Today’s dog trainer must develop proficiency in canine behavior, human psychology, business management, and professional development.
Training and Certification: The Path to Becoming a Dog Trainer
To become a dog trainer, you will need to obtain certification through a formal education program. There are many institutions across the United States, Canada, and even overseas that offer courses, many of which have excellent reputations. It’s essential to do your research and choose a program that aligns with your goals. Keep in mind that dog training spans a wide range of areas—from general dog training for the home and neighborhood to specialized fields such as training Seeing Eye dogs, search and rescue dogs, cancer detection dogs, or therapy dogs for children, seniors, and the severely ill.
In general, most individuals working as dog trainers are “self-educated.” This means they have read extensively on behavior modification and dog ethology, attended seminars, workshops, and conventions, and possibly mentored with other trainers. While there are “dog training schools,” a good program should cover essential topics such as:
The history of dog training, from its origins in the late 19th century, comparing it to other forms of animal training.
Animal learning, including positive and negative reinforcement, punishment, habituation, sensitization, and desensitization, and how it compares to human learning.
Dog behavior, which covers everything related to understanding and addressing canine behaviors.
Designing training classes, including creating effective course materials, counseling clients, and motivating them.
Business management, focusing on how to operate your business successfully.
Your training of a dog should extend beyond a few days, as it can take weeks before you or the owners start seeing results.
Another valuable way to gain experience is through apprenticeship. Find an experienced dog trainer who can teach you the “hows” and “whys” of training, providing hands-on learning opportunities. Volunteering at shelters and similar organizations can also give you exposure to different breeds and personalities, helping you gain more experience. Joining online communities with similar interests can provide you with useful information to help you succeed. Remember, learning never stops, regardless of your profession. It’s essential to stay ahead of the curve, especially in a field like dog training.
Once you’re ready to start working, there are numerous employment opportunities available. Whether you work independently or in a pet store or veterinary clinic, the possibilities are vast. You could also explore other career paths, such as becoming a Dog Behaviorist or a Researcher.
While the process may seem daunting at first, if you are serious about becoming a dog trainer, you must do your research and stay dedicated to learning. Don’t get discouraged if the learning process seems slow or if you’re faced with a challenging dog to train. Most of your expertise will come from hands-on experience. The more experience you gain, the more successful you will become.
There is also a growing movement toward licensing dog trainers, which will further enhance the credibility of the profession. This is excellent news for everyone because it ensures that safe and effective methods are being used, and helps prevent individuals from entering the field just to make money, without genuine interest or the necessary skills.
