How Long Does it Take to Be a Certified Dog Trainer?

If you have a passion for working with dogs, becoming a certified dog trainer may be a great option for you. Fortunately, this career path is fairly accessible and doesn’t require a significant amount of training or experience to get started. However, there are some things you should keep in mind if you’re thinking of getting into the industry.

Generally, you’ll need to have at least a college degree in animal science or a similar field. In addition, you should have a strong work ethic, patience, and a passion for learning. You should also be able to handle the physical and emotional challenges of training dogs, as well as the challenges that can arise when working with clients who have a variety of different backgrounds, personalities, or temperaments.

You can earn certifications from many different organizations. The most widely recognized is the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, or CPDT. The initial level, CPDT-KA, requires documentation of at least 300 hours of dog training in the last three years, passing a 250-question multiple-choice exam, submitting an attestation statement from a CPDT member or veterinarian, and signing a code of ethics.

Other organizations offer higher levels of certification, including the Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training and Behavior. Those who earn the KPA-CTP must complete their courses through the organization, fulfill all of the same requirements as the CPDT-KA, and pass a video-based test showing their skills in training.

Independent certifications are more widely recognized than certificates issued by schools. These are typically more rigorous and objective and have a greater impact on employers’ perceptions of you than school-issued certificates do, according to animal training experts.

Some of the most popular independent certifications are offered by the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training and Behavior, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), and the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP). A few of these programs even offer scholarships to help offset costs.

It is important to pick a certification program that teaches you the most up-to-date and effective techniques for dog training. This includes a strong focus on science-backed and humane training methods, as well as animal psychology and behavior. You should also seek out a program that allows you to customize your curriculum to meet your individual needs.

One way to learn more about the profession is to volunteer at an animal shelter, or to serve as an apprentice or trainee at a local pet training facility. These positions provide you with valuable hands-on experience that you can use to build your portfolio and gain more knowledge about the business.

If you’re interested in a more in-depth study of dog training, consider pursuing an online certificate program. These programs are usually more affordable than in-person schools and provide flexible schedules. You can also try a free demo before paying the full cost of the course.

Be sure to choose a program that offers a comprehensive training curriculum that includes positive reinforcement and operant conditioning methods, as well as dog psychology and behavioral sciences. You should also look for programs that teach you about service dogs and/or canine behavioral problems, as these are more relevant to the workplace.