Mastiffs are loyal, calm and protective --- important traits in a guard dog.
The term "guard dog" brings to mind images of vicious, junkyard dogs taking a bite out of anyone who encroaches on their territory. In actuality, they are highly-trained dogs taught by skilled professionals who have had specialized schooling to ensure the dog acts effectively and obediently. Becoming a guard dog trainer takes more than just a love of dogs, however. It requires a knowledge of dog breeds, characteristics, behavior and psychology. Proper schooling will teach you to train dogs and start your own business, with skills like bookkeeping, marketing, class organization and client service.
Instructions
1. Study the basic traits and qualities of different dog breeds. If you do not own a dog, consider acquiring one as a pet. Visit dog shelters and volunteer to learn the traits of different dog breeds. For example, English mastiffs are calm and easily-trained, as opposed to higher-energy German shepherds that require a lot of exercise and attention. Learning the origins of the breed will also help you get a better idea of temperament. For instance, shepherd dogs were originally bred as sheep herders, which is why they are energetic. Bookstores often carry books on puppy/dog training and knowledgeable staff at shelters can guide you in learning dog behavior.
2. Find a school that specializes in protection training. Different schools offer varying curriculum, and some offer online classes --- try to locate a school in your area that you can visit before signing up. Guard dog training is an advanced form of dog training, and not offered by all training schools. A good program should cover the history of training, obedience training, safety, protection training and business skills. Some programs, such as the Animal Behavior College, require you to spend a certain number of hours in a shelter, and include business skills like public speaking and designing classes for clients.
3. Join a professional organization such as the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, which tests and nationally certifies dog trainers. Because most states do not regulate dog training education, becoming certified and joining a professional organization shows that you meet a certain level of education and have met professional standards for dog training. This will enhance your reputation and help build a business or obtain a job after school. Many professions require people to be certified by a professional organization to uphold reputation and ethical standards, such as nurses and doctors.
4. Decide if you want to start your own business or find a job working for someone else. Owning a dog-training business can wield greater financial reward, flexibility and freedom, but can be time-consuming and take a great deal of effort. Marketing and networking are often a full-time job alone, and many business owners work long hours to obtain clients. Getting a job with an established company will trim down hours and time-consuming activities like managing a website. Always check with your town and state for regulations before starting a business.
Tags: professional organization, business skills, different breeds, protection training, skills like