So You Want to Be a Dog Trainer

Thinking about becoming a dog trainer? Awesome! Dogs are the best. Working with dogs is an excellent way to add variety to your career and make some extra money on the side or possibly even turn it into your full-time job. However, dog training can be a tough industry to break into, but it’s not impossible – if you follow these steps and do some research along the way, you’ll have the skills you need to get started as a dog trainer in no time at all!

What do you love most about dogs?

Dogs are amazing creatures. They're loving, loyal, and always ready to play. It's no wonder that so many people want to become dog trainers! If you're thinking about becoming a dog trainer, here are a few things you should know.

What are your strengths as a pet parent?

Do you have a passion for dogs and want to share that love with others? Or maybe you're looking for a new career that will let you work with dogs all day long. Either way, becoming a dog trainer can be a rewarding experience. But it's not just about playing fetch all day - it takes hard work, dedication, and patience.

Have you spent time around other dogs?

You must have some experience around other dogs before you start training them. This will help you understand their body language and vocalizations, and give you a feel for how they interact with other dogs and humans. If you don't have much experience around dogs, it's not the end of the world – but it is something you should consider before embarking on a career as a trainer.

Do you want to become an online instructor?

There are many ways to become an online instructor, but the most important thing is to have a passion for teaching. The following steps will help you get started on your journey: 

1. Find your niche. What type of instructor do you want to be? There are so many possibilities: dance, cooking, fitness, language, etc. Once you know what you want to teach, it will be easier to market yourself and find students. 

2. Choose a platform. Will you create your own website or use an existing one? If you create your own website, you’ll need to invest time and money into marketing it. However, using an existing platform has the advantage of already having an audience. 

3. Create or find course materials.

Do you want to specialize in certain breeds?

There are many things to consider when you become a dog trainer. Do you want to specialize in certain breeds? Different breeds have different temperaments, which can make training making more difficult or easier depending on your preference. There are also different levels of obedience training, from simple commands to more complex tricks. Consider what area you would like to specialize in before becoming a dog trainer. 

There are many things to consider when you become a dog trainer. Do you want to specialize in certain breeds? Different breeds have different temperaments, making training more difficult or easier depending on your preference. There are also different levels of obedience training, from simple commands to more complex tricks. Consider what area you would like to specialize in before becoming a dog trainer.

Can you support yourself on training alone?

Decide whether you want to train dogs full-time or keep your current job and do it part-time. Consider the amount of money you need to live and whether your business will be able to generate enough income. Also, think about how much time you're willing to commit to training. It's important to be realistic about what you can handle so that you don't get overwhelmed.

Are there any extra certifications I should have?

To be a professional dog trainer, you do not need any extra certifications. However, completing a dog training course can give you an edge over the competition and make you more attractive to potential employers. There are many different types of courses available, so be sure to do your research before enrolling in one. Once you have completed a course, consider becoming certified through the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT). The APDT offers several different levels of certification, each with its own set of requirements.