Dog trainers need good dog and people skills.
Although there are several programs around the country that offer courses in dog training, according to the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), "individuals employed as dog trainers are largely self-educated." You can learn the skills to become a professional dog trainer without the expense of college or other classes. However, do not be misled into believing that this is the easier path. You will still need to understand the theories of animal behavior, dog behavior and animal training concepts and apply them. There is also the business side of dog training, where exceptional people and business management skills are necessary.
Instructions
1. Read books and watch videos on dog training and animal behavior. Several books are recommended reading by the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), including "Don't Shoot the Dog: The New Art of Teaching and Training," by Karen Pryor; "Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Volume One: Adaptation and Learning," by Steven Lindsay; and "The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behaviour and Interactions with People," edited by James Serpell.
2. Ask a local dog trainer to mentor you so that you can learn training, business and customer service skills. You can find dog trainers by searching the IAABC or APDT database or under the dog training section of your phone book. Local dog rescues are another helpful resource.
3. Offer free dog-training services to family and friends. Before you can start charging for your services, you need experience, as much as possible. By offering free sessions, you are sure to get a wide range of dogs to work with, giving you a solid foundation to work with client pets.
4. Become a member of dog-training associations. The IAABC and APDT have certification programs for beginners.
Tags: animal behavior, IAABC APDT, work with