A Day In The Life Of a Dog Trainer - Sniffin' Around Skip to main content

What does a day in the life of a dog trainer look like? This is a question that many aspiring dog trainers want to know before making the decision to enter this field. In this article, we will break down what a typical day looks like for those who work in this industry.

Plus, we’ll also outline how aspiring trainers can launch their careers and answer some frequently asked questions about becoming a certified dog trainer.

Let’s start by breaking down what a typical day in the life of a dog trainer actually looks like. For those who are thinking about entering this field, it’s important to have a realistic understanding of what the job entails.

Morning

Many dog trainers start their days early, often before the sun comes up. This is because they need to get their own dogs exercised and out for a walk or run. Once they’ve taken care of their own dogs, they can then begin their workday.

The first order of business is typically meeting with new clients and assessing their needs. This usually happens in the morning, as most people are available during this time.

Afternoon

After meeting with new clients, dog trainers will often have a few regular appointments scheduled throughout the day.

These appointments usually involve working one-on-one with a client and their dog. During these sessions, trainers will work on obedience training, behavior modification, or both. The number of appointments a trainer has in a day will vary depending on their schedule and the needs of their clients.

In between appointments, dog trainers often have administrative work that needs to be done. This can include things like scheduling appointments, returning phone calls, and updating client records.

End Of Day

At the end of the day, most dog trainers will spend some time debriefing and preparing for their next day. This usually involves planning upcoming training sessions, as well as reflecting on the progress made with each individual dog.

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If You Run Your Own Dog Training Business

If you want to run your own dog training business, there are additional tasks that need to be completed each day. This can include things like marketing your business, networking with other dog-related businesses, and keeping up with finances.

While running your own business takes extra work, it can be very rewarding. It also gives you the flexibility to create your own schedule and choose the types of dogs you want to work with.

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Pro Tip: Interested in starting your very own dog training business? Discover everything you need to know to get started with the best chances of success!

Dog Training FAQs

Now that we’ve gone over what a day in the life of a dog trainer looks like, let’s answer some common questions that people have about this career path.

Do Dog Trainers Actually Work?

Yes, dog trainers actually work! This is a real job that people can have as a career. Dog trainers help teach obedience to dogs and their owners, as well as work on behavior modification.

Furthermore, according to Pet Educate, the professional dog training industry is booming… And will continue to do so! In fact, the global dog training services market is expected to increase to approx. $41 billion by 2025 – and reach over $820 USD in the United States alone by 2026. What’s more, the compound annual growth rate of this industry stands at an impressive 9.6%!

What does this mean for you?

Basically, if you’re thinking about becoming a dog trainer, now is a great time to enter the field. The demand for qualified dog trainers is only going to rise!

Is Dog Training Good For Dogs?

Yes, dog training is actually very good for dogs! Training can help with obedience, behavior modification, and socialization. In fact, according to Psychology Today, trained dogs are less likely to develop behavior problems than untrained dogs.

Additionally, dog training can be a great way for owners to bond with their dogs. It’s also a great way to give dogs the mental and physical stimulation they need to stay happy and healthy.

Do Dogs Like Being Trained?

This is a difficult question to answer, as every dog is different. Some dogs may enjoy the one-on-one attention they receive during training sessions, while others may not be as fond of the process.

However, most experts agree that, overall, dogs do benefit from being trained. As we mentioned before, trained dogs are less likely to develop behavior problems. Training can also help dogs learn useful skills, like obedience and socialization.

So, while not every dog may enjoy the training process, most dogs do benefit from it in one way or another.

What Is The Best Training Method For Dogs?

Again, this is a difficult question to answer, as every dog is different.

That said, positive reinforcement is widely regarded as the best – and most humane – method of training. With positive reinforcement, dogs are rewarded for displaying the desired behavior. This could include treats, verbal praise, or petting.

On the other hand, negative reinforcement involves punishing dogs for displaying undesired behaviors. This could include scolding them, using physical force, or withholding attention/affection.

Overall, positive reinforcement is a much more effective – and humane – training method than negative reinforcement. If you’re looking to train your dog, we recommend using positive reinforcement techniques.

dog owner looking happy and kneeling while petting his husky dog in the park's green grass. Dog trainer article.

What Are The Advantages Of Being a Dog Trainer?

There are many advantages to being a dog trainer! For starters, you get to work with dogs all day – and who doesn’t love that?

Additionally, as a dog trainer, you can make a real difference in the lives of both dogs and their owners. You can help owners bond with their dogs, train them obedience skills, and even work on behavior modification.

Furthermore, dog trainers can enjoy a flexible work schedule and the ability to work from home. Not to mention, you can make a killer salary in this industry!

There are many advantages to being a dog trainer. If you’re passionate about dogs and love working with them, this may be the perfect career for you!

What Are The Disadvantages Of Being a Dog Trainer?

Of course, every job has its downsides. For dog trainers, some of the disadvantages include having to deal with difficult dogs and owners, long hours, and a lot of physical labor.

Additionally, dog trainers may have to work weekends and evenings – especially if they work in a pet store or kennel. And, since most dog trainers are self-employed, they don’t necessarily have the same job security as those with traditional jobs (although you absolutely can have job security if you know how to run your business properly)!

So, while there are some disadvantages to being a dog trainer, the pros definitely outweigh the cons! If you’re passionate about dogs and love working with them, you’ll likely find that the disadvantages of this career path are far outweighed by the advantages.

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Check out more pros and cons of working as a professional dog trainer!

Is Dog Training Stressful?

Like any job, dog training can be stressful at times. However, it’s important to remember that stress is a part of life – no matter what career you choose.

That said, there are ways to manage stress and make your job as a dog trainer more manageable. For starters, it’s important to set realistic goals for yourself and your clients.

Additionally, it’s important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. This means eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. Finally, make sure to take some time for yourself every day – even if it’s just a few minutes!

By following these tips, you can help reduce stress in your life as a dog trainer.

What Kind Of Dog Trainers Make The Most Money?

There is a wide range of salaries for dog trainers. The amount of money you can make as a dog trainer depends on many factors, including your experience, location, and the type of clients you work with.

Generally speaking, those who work with private clients – as opposed to working in a pet store or kennel – tend to make more money. Additionally, dog trainers who have been in the industry for many years and have built up a strong client base typically make more money than those who are just starting out.

Finally, dog trainers who work in large cities or affluent areas usually make more money than those who work in small towns or rural areas.

So, if you’re looking to make the most money as a dog trainer, you should focus on building up your experience, working with private clients, and finding a location that pays well.

Do You Need a Dog Trainer Certification To Work?

While there are many benefits to becoming certified, it’s important to note that you do not technically need a certification to work as a dog trainer.

However, having a certification – especially from a well-respected organization, such as QC Pet Studies – can help you land clients and jobs. Plus, it can also give you an edge over the competition.

Moreover, becoming certified shows potential clients that you are serious about your career and that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to help them train their dogs.

So, while you do not need a certification to work as a dog trainer, it is definitely something that will help you further your career and assist in long-term success.

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How To Become a Certified Dog Trainer

If you’re interested in becoming a certified dog trainer, there are a few steps you’ll need to take.

First, you’ll need to complete an accredited dog training program. The self-paced, online Dog Training certification course offered by QC Pet Studies is a great option! In as little as 6 months (or less), you can earn your globally-recognized International Dog Training Professional™ (IDTP™) certification + designation.

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Pro Tip: View the full curriculum for QC’s online Dog Training Course to learn more!

Once you’ve completed this program, you can then choose to also take the the Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) exam from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. QC’s Dog Training Course actually offers an entire unit devoted to preparing you for this exam.

The benefits of being CPDT certified include:

  • Improved credibility with clients
  • Higher earning potential
  • Greater job satisfaction
  • Improved booking potential

Once you have your certification, it’s important to think long-term over the course of your career. This means staying current with popular industry trends/information, as well as furthering your education and qualifications whenever possible or necessary. You may also find that taking some sort of business course will come in handy, especially if you’re planning on running your own dog training business.

(Although, that said, QC’s Dog Training Course also provides a full unit devoted entirely to business training as well.)

By following these steps, you can become a certified dog trainer and launch a successful career in this industry!

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding of what a typical day in the life of a dog trainer looks like. You should also now have a clearer idea of how to launch your own career in this industry.

If you’re interested in becoming a certified dog trainer, make sure to check out QC Pet Studies’ online Dog Training Course! In as little as 6 short months, you can be on your way to becoming a certified professional.

Still have questions? Feel free to reach out to us in the comments below and we’ll be happy to help! And don’t forget to leave a comment if YOU have any tips or advice of your own for aspiring dog trainers out there.

Thanks for reading! 🙂

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