How to Become a Dog Trainer

How to become a dog trainer is a process whereby you have to research, read, and learn as much as you can about the behavior of dogs in general, and breeds in particular.

While there is no formal training on how to become a dog trainer, nonetheless, you can develop an expertise by attending workshops, reading books on the subject, and networking with certified dog trainers who can help you in this endeavor.

There are training programs available that you can join, however, they should offer the following curriculum: all modes of animal learning and behavior such as you would find in psychology 101, for example, wherein there are lectures, reading material, and hands-on training.

You may also wish to contact other dog trainers and inquire if you can assist or apply as an apprentice. In addition, you can also contact veterinarians, pet stores, and pet grooming sites where you can also seek employment.

Volunteering to work at shelters can be of enormous help in learning about, and gaining experience in, understanding different breeds of dogs relative to their behavior and temperament. This is particularly important since each breed of dog comes with its own set of needs.

The most important aspect on how to become a dog trainer, however, is having the patience and fortitude to go the distance. It takes time to understand dog behavior and to effectively utilize the components needed to reinforce positive behavior. In addition, as trainer, you have to be able to effectively communicate with the dog’s owner.

If you’ve ever watched the Dog Whisperer, you may notice that he is not only called in to fix a specific problem, but offers recommendations to the owners as well. This is particularly true in cases where the owner needs to assert the "leader of the pack" stance so that an aggressive dog will become submissive to the owner’s commands.

You can also check out the Association of Pet Dog Trainers online for more information on how you can become a dog trainer. They offer a comprehensive site which includes information on books, conferences, DVDs, and certification as well. In addition, there is the International Association of Canine Professionals which also offers the same information and certification.

While we know that shelters are over-flowing with puppies and adult dogs, most of whom are returned by owners who cannot cope with behavioral problems, it seems that a dog trainer can make a substantial contribution in reducing the amount of dogs in shelters by offering their services to those who are on the cusp of giving up, and effectively training dogs so they could remain with their owners.

If you’d like to learn how to become a dog trainer and make a difference, contact any one of the aforementioned sites listed to begin the process.