How to become a dog trainer
A dog trainer is a professional who teaches dogs how to behave well and follow commands. They help dogs learn things like sitting, staying and not jumping on people. Dog trainers also help fix any bad behaviours a dog might have. For example, barking too much or being too aggressive. They work with both the dog and its owner to make sure the dog is happy and well-behaved. Dog trainers love dogs and want to help them and their owners have a good relationship. They are like teachers for dogs.
The UK offers a growing demand for dog trainers due to the increasing number of dog owners seeking professional guidance. A career as a dog trainer is a fantastic choice for those who are not only passionate about dogs, but also enjoy making a positive impact on the lives of animals and their human companions.
Average Salary
£16,000 to £28,000
Qualification Level
Flexible
Weekly Hours
Flexible
What does a dog trainer do?
Dog trainers play a pivotal role in transforming furry friends into well-behaved companions. Their expertise extends far beyond teaching simple tricks. They are instrumental in fostering a strong bond between dogs and owners. Their primary focus with puppy training is to ensure dogs become happy and obedient members of the household.
The day-to-day roles of dog trainers include:
- Evaluating a dog’s current behaviour and identifying areas that need improvement.
- Developing customised training programs to address specific needs, whether it is basic obedience, socialisation or addressing behavioural problems.
- Teaching dogs essential commands like sit, stay, heel, etc., using various training techniques.
- Instructing dog owners on effective communication and interaction with their pets.
- Addressing and correcting undesirable behaviours such as barking, aggression or separation anxiety.
- Keeping track of a dog’s progress and adjusting training plans as needed.
- Training dogs for specific tasks, including therapy work, service assistance or dog sports.
- Encouraging dogs to interact positively with other dogs and people, preventing fear and aggression.
- Staying updated on the latest research and techniques in dog training to provide the most effective and humane training methods.
- Offering ongoing support to dog owners, ensuring their training’s long-term success.
What qualifications do I need to become a dog trainer in the UK?
Qualifications for becoming a dog trainer in the UK can vary. This profession does not always require formal education or certifications. However, having the right knowledge and skills is essential to be successful in this field.
A genuine love for dogs is the foundation of a successful dog training career. You must have a deep understanding of canine behaviour and a desire to help owners and improve their lives. While not mandatory, formal education in animal behaviour, psychology or a related field can be highly beneficial.
Let’s take a look at some of the ways in which you can get into this role:
Taking a dog training course at a college
Many aspiring trainers opt for courses in animal science or canine behaviour to gain a strong theoretical foundation.
Some courses that you can take include:
- Level 1 or level 2 Diploma in Animal Care
- T level in Animal Care and Management
The entry requirements include:
- 1-2 GCSEs at grades 3-1 for a level 1 course.
- Minimum of 2 GCSEs at grades 9-3 for a level 2 course.
- Minimum of 4 GCSEs at grades 9-4, including Maths and English for a T level.
Intermediate Apprenticeship
An intermediate apprenticeship provides you with a foundation in animal care. It can be a valuable starting point for those who want to specialise in dog training. During this apprenticeship, you would typically learn about animals’ general care and well-being. This can include feeding, grooming, handling and understanding their basic needs.
As you gain experience and develop a deeper interest in dog training, you can consider advancing to a higher apprenticeship. This more specialised apprenticeship will provide in-depth training in animal behaviour, training techniques and handling skills. You would also learn to work with dogs of various temperaments, addressing behavioural issues and teaching them obedience and other skills.
The entry requirements include:
- Some GCSEs and proficiency in Maths and English for an intermediate apprenticeship.
- Minimum of 4 GCSEs at grades 9-4 and A levels for higher apprenticeship.
Work and Volunteering
Alternatively, you could become a dog trainer through work and volunteering. Many individuals begin their journey to becoming a dog trainer by working as kennel workers or assistants at animal shelters, dog boarding facilities or pet care centres. As you gain experience working in kennels or similar environments, you may have the opportunity to move into more specialised roles within these facilities.
Volunteering at animal shelters, rescue organisations or with local dog trainers is an excellent way to gain practical experience working with dogs. By dedicating your time to these organisations, you can learn about dog handling, training, different dog personalities and behavioural challenges.
Volunteering can also help you network within the dog training community. You may meet established trainers or other individuals who can offer guidance, mentorship or even job opportunities in the future.
What skills and experience is needed to become a certified dog trainer?
To become a certified dog trainer in the UK, a combination of skills and experience is essential. Dog trainers play a vital role in fostering well-behaved canine companions. Their dog training qualification reflects a commitment to the welfare of dogs and their owners. Some of the key skills and experiences necessary for achieving success as a reputable dog trainer in the UK include:
- Comprehensive knowledge of canine behaviour, including dog body language, breed-specific traits and the ability to interpret a dog’s emotional state.
- Proficiency in various training techniques.
- The ability to tailor your methods to individual dog needs.
- Effective communication skills to convey training instructions and provide guidance to dog owners clearly.
- Experience working with dogs directly, including handling dogs with various temperaments.
- Hold certifications from established organisations such as the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT)
- The ability to understand and empathise with both dogs and their owners.
- Effective business and client management skills.
What is the average salary of dog trainers in the UK
The salary of dog trainers in the UK can vary significantly depending on several factors. This can include experience, location, specialisation and the type of clients they serve.
Newcomers to the field start at lower salaries, often in the range of £16,000 to £20,000 per year. At this stage, dog trainers may work as assistants or take on entry-level positions at kennels or training facilities to gain experience.
Certified dog trainers with a few years of experience can earn higher salaries. Their earnings can go as high as £28,000. Certification and proven track record can significantly boost their earning potential. Dog trainers specialising in specific areas such as agility training, dog behaviour modification or service dog training can charge higher fees for their expertise. Additionally, business owners tend to have more control over their income.
The location within the UK plays a significant role in determining salaries. For example, dog trainers in London and the South East often earn higher salaries. Trainers in rural or less affluent areas may earn less.
Possible career progression of a dog training professional in the UK
Starting as a novice trainer, individuals can advance through several stages of development, often leading to more specialised and rewarding roles. Newcomers to the field often begin as entry-level dog trainers. They work on building their foundational skills, often under the guidance of more experienced trainers.
As trainers gain more work experience and expertise, they can specialise in specific areas of dog training. They might focus on obedience, behaviour modification, service dog training or even therapy dog work. Specialisation can set them apart in the industry and allow them to cater to clients with distinct needs.
Ongoing education is essential for dog trainers. Attending advanced training courses and seminars can help them increase their knowledge and hone their skills. Experienced trainers often decide to establish their dog training businesses. An experienced and professional dog trainer can also choose to become a mentor for aspiring trainers. They may offer apprenticeship or training programs, sharing their knowledge and experience to help new trainers get started.
How many hours do dog trainers work for in a week?
The working hours of dog trainers in the UK can be pretty flexible and can vary depending on their specific circumstances. Many dog trainers work part-time depending on their client’s demands and personal preferences. Some work full-time and may invest between 35 and 40 hours per week providing training to dogs.
Dog trainers often adapt their schedules to accommodate their clients. This may include offering evening or weekend appointments. Those who run their own dog training businesses typically have more flexibility in setting their working hours. They can choose when and how many clients they take on and may have control over their daily schedule.
The demand for dog training services can vary throughout the year. For example, the holiday season may see an increase in requests for obedience training or handling behavioural issues in dogs who find the festive season stressful. Some trainers might need to travel to clients’ homes or offer training sessions at various locations. This can affect their daily schedules.
What type of working environment do dog trainers have?
Their working environment is as diverse as the clients they serve and the specific services they offer. Dog trainers often find themselves in various settings, working closely with dogs and their owners to address behaviour, training and wellbeing.
Many dog trainers conduct their sessions in the homes of their clients. This a comfortable and familiar environment for the dog. Some trainers operate from dedicated training centres or facilities. These environments are equipped with training equipment, obstacles and controlled spaces that are conducive to teaching obedience and agility.
Dogs can also be trained in real-world environments such as parks or open fields. However, weather conditions can impact outdoor training schedules in the UK. Some trainers work within boarding kennels, helping to improve the behaviour of dogs temporarily housed there. They may also assist with training activities while dogs are under their care.