Careers in Dog Training Stephanie Bell, BA, CPDT-KSA

What is the Definition of Dog Training? The application of behavior analysis to modify the behavior of a dog.

What are the activities in which Dog Trainers engage? Competition for Sport – working with dog fanciers or hobbyists to achieve set goals—agility, confirmation, obedience, herding, scent work, field trials, etc. Behavior Modification – working with pet owners to achieve goals which are often unclear or fluid. Commonly addressing problem behaviors with a dog who has “baggage” in the form of behaviors that are “bad,” i.e., people- aggression, dog-aggression, chewing, barking, food stealing, resource guarding, etc.

What are the activities in which Dog Trainers engage? Specialized “Task” Training – training a dog as part of a program that requires specific tasks. The dog is often selected and raised specifically to perform this task – service dogs, narcotics dogs, military dogs, protection dogs, etc.

What types of organizations or businesses employ Dog Trainers? Many trainers are self-employed but some trainers work for businesses including: Dog Daycares Retail Stores Veterinary Hospitals Government Agencies Non-Profits or Animal Welfare Groups

How much graduate training is needed to become a Dog Trainer There is no formal education needed to be a dog trainer. Professional dog trainers will often recommend obtaining certification through an independent organization that provides an education on behaviorism and applied behavior analysis. Depending on the certification you chose, your level of education will vary. Veterinary Behaviorists need to attend vet school and so forth. For some certifications, a Masters in ABA or a DVM with a behavioral specialty is needed.

Are certifications or special training needed to become a Dog Trainer? CPDT-KA - Certified Professional Dog Trainer; Professional Dog Trainers ACAAB - Associate Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist; Animal Behavior Society CAAB - Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist; Animal Behavior Society CABC - Certified Animal Behavior Consultant; International Assoc. of Animal Behavior Consultants CDBC - Certified Dog Behavior Consultant ; International Assoc. of Animal Behavior Consultants CCAB - Certified Clinical Behavior Consultant; International Assoc. for Study of Animal Behavior DACVB – Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists; American College of Veterinary Behaviorists

How good are employment opportunities for Dog Trainers? For self-employed trainers, employment opportunities are largely self-determined. The more you work to promote yourself, the more business you will have. The quality of your work determines your ability to retain clients. Most dog trainers work as part of the service industry. Areas of the country with a dense middle-class provide better employment opportunities for most trainers.

What salaries do Dog Trainers earn? Salaries vary according to area of the country, education level and skill level. A salary range of $25/hour - $150/hour would be reasonable for the South-East. Annual salary: locally ~$10,000-$50,000/year

How flexible are working conditions for Dog Trainers? Working Conditions are Flexible for Self-Employed Trainers: a)Can choose to work part-time or full-time b)Although cannot do most work remotely, trainer may have online presence that can provide extra income c)Casual dress is common d)Scheduling is flexible, although should be able to work evenings and weekends

What skills and experiences should Undergrads acquire if they are interested in Dog Training? Must like working with people Must like working with animals Must have excellent understanding of operant & classical conditioning Must be comfortable with public speaking Must be willing to learn from others, especially your clients and their dogs Must be able to “train-test-train” and modify your protocol as needed Must be willing to work within the parameters of the individual client’s capability

What skills and experiences should Undergrads acquire if they are interested in Dog Training? Recommended Courses: 1.Conditioning & Learning with Laboratory (EXP3422C) 2. Applied Behavior Analysis (EAB 3703) 3. Courses in Animal Behavior

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a Dog Trainer ? Some “Pros” include: Flexible schedule Little to no startup costs Few business expenses But the most rewarding thing is being able to help a person communicate effectively with their dog and see how grateful they both are; in some cases, the trainer is saving that dog’s life.

What is the biggest drawback of being a Dog Trainer? Salary (locally ~$10,000-$50,000/year) No standardization or regulation No education required; most trainers are “self-educated” The feeling that failing your client may lead to the death of an animal

Website recommendations for students interested in Dog Training Behavior: Luring/Marking/Shaping Behavior: Dog Training as a Career: Dog Owner’s Resource:

Book recommendations for students interested in Dog Training The Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson Don’t Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals by Turid Rugaas Excel-Erated Learning by Pamela Reid

Examples of Dog Training LPwXmTubqIn0l4LsRa?dl=0https:// LPwXmTubqIn0l4LsRa?dl=0