Becoming a Dog Trainer, How to Become a Dog Trainer

Becoming a Dog Trainer Step 1: Do your own research

Reading books, visiting dog related websites (such as this), and conducting research pertaining to the various types of dog breeds and their personality traits is beneficial. In addition, search for information regarding the different types of dog training methods. Familiarize yourself with the different techniques associated with a variety of dog behavior. For example, look for information regarding topics such as:

• Choosing the right puppy
• Crate Training a Dog or Housetraining a Dog
• Dog Clicker Training
• Positive Reinforcement Training
• Obedience Training
• How to properly handle a dog
• How to manage and train aggressive dogs
• How to manage and train timid dogs
• Dog Health Problems (see small dog health problems)
• Outdoor and Agility training
• Training a dog to do tricks
• Using dogs for Narcotics and Bomb tracking
• Tracking on the hunt
• Understanding dog behavior

Becoming a Dog Trainer Step 2: Get some experience working with Dogs

Nothing compares to hands on experience when working with dogs. Thus, seeking employment or acting as a volunteer at a local shelter or rescue is also recommended. Doing so allows you the opportunity to interact with multiple dog breeds on a regular basis. This is most beneficial due to the variety of dog behavior you will experience. Another great way to get more hands on experience with a variety of dog breeds is to dog sit for people locally. You could also charge to do this and make extra money on the side as you further your education.

Becoming a Dog Trainer Step 3: Learn from the Professionals

As mentioned earlier, it is highly recommended that you educate yourself with regards to dog training methods and behaviors. Many people will do so by attending conferences or seminars that are held by professionals currently working in the field. Meetings such as these will focus on topics mentioned in Step 1. You can find these seminars by searching online or simply contacting a local dog trainer in your area.

Becoming a Dog Trainer Step 4: Time to research the different schools, courses, and certifications

When searching for the right dog training school be sure the organization you choose offers a variety of training methods and not just the basics. Due to the number of dog training courses available, it is vital that you have an idea as to what kind of training you would prefer to specialize in. For instance, canine law enforcement training could be a possible option. Perhaps you would like to open your own training school for dogs that offers an array of training techniques. The choice is yours to make and thoroughly researching the different dog training schools will help.

In addition, dog training seminars should have information pertaining to a variety of dog training schools. It would be wise to ask the professionals currently working in the field their recommendations for a good dog training school. This type of information may also be available from a local dog trainer, a dog shelter in your area, a local pet store, or online.

Becoming a Dog Trainer Step 5: Time to get certified

Once you have completed a dog training school, it will be time to consider getting nationally certified. To date, the most recognized dog training certification organization in the U.S. is the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). Another well know dog training certification group is the the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). The APDT also has a Canadian section of their organization as well.

Related Articles

• Positive Dog Training


• Dog Clicker Training


• Crate Trainig a Dog


• How intelligent are Dogs?

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Becoming a Dog Trainer