How To Get Started In A Career As A Certified Dog Trainer
If you love dogs and you think you'd enjoy a career that allows you to work with them every day, then consider becoming a dog trainer. As a trainer, you'd help dogs live better lives by being safer and getting along with their humans better. Here's how you can get started in a career as a dog trainer.
Take Certified Dog Trainer Courses
Even if you have a knack for training dogs and your own dog is well-trained, dog training courses are still helpful. Other dogs may not respond to the same training techniques you use on your own dog. Plus, you may have to deal with personality problems and dogs with behavioral issues, so a good education is important. Also, when you are certified, it shows potential customers that you have the knowledge and training to be an effective dog trainer.
Certified dog trainer school consists of classroom learning when you are taught about dog behavior and methods you can use for training. Some classes may be online or you might want to attend them in person. You may also attend training sessions so you get to experience watching a dog trainer in action.
Certified dog trainer courses prepare you for teaching dogs with different personality types the basic commands they need to learn to be safe and to be enjoyable companions. You may even take more advanced training that prepares you to teach dogs for show or for sports.
The dog trainer school may also offer classes that help you set up your business so you learn to draw in customers, protect yourself legally, and manage your business.
Consider Working As An Assistant
Before you open your doors as a certified dog trainer, you may want to train as many dogs as you can so you get a feel for different dog personalities. One way to do that is to work with a certified trainer as an assistant. You may even work as a volunteer just to gain valuable experience.
A trainer can give you pointers and improve your techniques. Plus, you'll get to meet a variety of dogs so you can practice your skills. You may even want to create a client list with photos of your dogs and testimonials from their owners that you can use for marketing your new dog training business.
With good training, certification, and experience, you'll be ready to start working independently. You'll get to work with animals you love being around, and you'll be helping the dogs and their families live happier lives by eliminating the stress and chaos caused by an unruly dog. That could make being a dog trainer a rewarding and fulfilling career for you.
