Do you love dogs? Do you find yourself automatically trying to train each dog you come across? Would you like a fun, satisfying career that revolves around working with dogs? Then starting a dog training career could be the best career option for you. As a dog trainer you will be able to work one-on-one with loveable dogs and help them to learn the proper behaviour or in a dog school or class environment.

Having a successful dog training career is dependent upon the time and effort you place in the venture. The odds of having an effective and productive dog training career are low if you decide just to read a book or two on the subject and set up shop. This type of surface level preparation for your dog training career may leave you ill-equipped to deal with the business aspects and typical obstacles.

Dog training skills are obtained by attending good quality courses, time, and training many dogs - vital hands-on experience.

Remember - if you embark on a dog training career then you need to establish a good, respectable reputation from the beginning. This is especially true if you wish to expand your dog training career from the average household to dog shows. The competitive dog world can be a small, close-knit group that watches the performance of dog trainers closely.

As you can see, starting a dog training career is a serious choice that needs to be investigated thoroughly before you begin. Let's say that you have decided you will put in the time and effort necessary for a successful dog training career because you love dogs, want to work with them everyday, and are committed to being a knowledgeable, skilful dog trainer. The next big question is how to do you start your dog training career?

A dog training career can begin in a number of ways. You can take home correspondence courses that range in complexity and time commitment but without hands-on elements they are ineffective. You can contact local breeders and dog trainers in your area and become a mentor or take lessons from them directly. You can also begin a dog training career by finding any dog training establishments that employ students and help you get you started.

The method you should use to begin your dog training career depends on the type of dog trainer you wish to be and your time commitment level. Can you work only part time and want to lead basic dog training classes at your recreation centre? Do you want your dog training career to become a full time job where you train dogs for dog competitions such as Westminster? You need to determine your interest level to begin.

Maybe you are not sure yet how much time you want to spend on your dog training career. If this is the case, meet dog trainers from any discipline, ask them for their advice and enquire about their programs to become a dog trainer. They may answer your individual questions and help you to decide if a dog training career is right for you. Remember that it’s polite to contact club trainers beforehand rather than just turning up at sessions as they will normally have a busy schedule.

You can also consult many books, magazines and websites on the subject. You will often find that others have the very same questions and concerns.

You can also speak with professional dog trainers in your area that have experience in this field. They can help you determine the level of commitment you want to bring to your dog training career. They can point out the pros and cons of a dog training career that might not be highlighted in dog training career books.

What do you typically learn during your dog training career? There is a plethora of items you need to understand including: establishing effective communication with your dog and basic to advanced tricks, training methodology and commands. You will learn the best way to teach your dog these exercises. You also need to understand the mind of your dog and learn about dog temperament and the unique needs of each dog. CIDBT theory distance learning programmes may help here.

As with any career you will need to understand the background and history of not only your dog. You will definitely come across more than one dog breed to train during your dog training career so it is imperative that you comprehend the intricacies of each breed. For example, you need to be aware of the historical type behaviour and facets of each breed - such as the Bichon Frise breed which can jump extremely high and collies for their sharp eye for movement.

In addition to dog history and the dynamics of each dog breed, it is vital that you have a good grip on proper dog nutrition. During your dog training career you want to produce dogs that are healthy, happy, and well-behaved. Understanding their nutrition and exercise needs will help you to accomplish this. Dog hygiene and grooming are areas of study as well so you can present a pooch that has a shiny coat and sparkling teeth.

While working with dogs comprises the majority of your dog training career, you will also need to focus on the business aspect. Your dog training career will become a business. Therefore, it is a necessity to understand how to operate your business regarding fees, overheads and other financial and time considerations.

Having a thriving, rewarding dog training career might be just what you need in your life. If you love dogs and want to work with them on a daily basis then do consider starting a dog training career.

K Brand, Trainer

Edited by CCT for The Guild