Trade Schools
Dog training is a highly rewarding and fun career option for those who enjoy working with animals and want to help their owners correct animal behavior, acclimate canines to new homes, or ease separation anxiety.
Becoming a dog trainer is a rather easy field to pursue since no certification or degree is required to enter the field.
The most important aspect of the dog training business is finding clients.
However, before you run out and start printing business cards, you should consider getting a training certificate, even if it’s not required.
To fully understand the dog training process, you must first learn more about the various costs involved in entering the field.
Keep reading to learn more!
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How Much Does It Cost to Complete Dog Trainer School?
Even though neither federal nor state certifications are required, earning a certificate that endorses your knowledge and skills can demonstrate your value to clients and employers.
The cost to complete a dog trainer school varies dramatically based on accreditation, program length, reputation, instructor experience, online versus in-person, and other costs for books or equipment.
Several of the leading programs include:
CATCH Canine Trainers Academy
CATCH Canine Trainers Academy is one of the best in the industry.
The organization offers four program levels:
- Basics Pro – Dog Training & Behavior,
- Core Skills – Pro Dog Trainer,
- Master Class Certification, CCDT, and
- Master Class: Community Edition,
each with different learning environments and curricula.
Prices range from $5,500 to $6,000, depending on the level.
Grisha Stewart’s Certification Program
The Grisha Stewart Certification Program has a Certified Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor credential for those working to fix scared, apprehensive, or aggressive behavior.
The core of the program is based on behavioral adjustment training, with related core competencies being refined during the curriculum.
The program costs $300.
Karen Pryor Academy
The Karen Pryor Academy offers a Dog Trainer Professional course that enables budding trainers to earn the Certified Training Partner title.
The program lasts six months and includes ten hours per week of online instruction with four weeks of in-person learning.
Individuals will master the requirements of hands-on teaching and training, comply with ethical guidelines, and gain proficiency in training techniques.
The tuition for this program is $5,300.
Top Tier K9
Top Tier K9 offers an eight-week online program that costs approximately $2,000.
The online aspect of the program offers students extensive personal flexibility while learning the core concepts of dog training, and it helps keep costs lower than those of in-person programs.
The downside is the inability to apply the classroom knowledge to practical training situations with dogs.
How Much Does a Dog Trainer License Cost?
Although a dog trainer license is not required to enter the workforce, if you choose to earn a certification, there are costs associated with different types and levels.
You must pay for the examination, which can range from $150 to $400.
Also, several certifications require the submission of a video of you successfully completing specific dog training types, so it’s documented.
You also often have to join the organization offering the certification, which costs $100 to $200, and then maintain the certification with yearly dues, which cost the same.
Some organizations also require an application fee, which can cost as much as $150.
What Are the Additional Costs After Becoming a Dog Trainer?
Aside from completing a training program and earning a certificate, the costs of becoming a dog trainer are minimal if you choose to work for an established company.
However, those looking to start a business can expect costs ranging from $600 to over $30,000, which include marketing expenses, liability insurance, business insurance, and renting a location.
You can save money by operating out of your residence.
Other costs include purchasing equipment like training tools, treats, clickers, collars, and leashes, which can run into the hundreds of dollars.
Also, you may wish to attend seminars, workshops, or continue your education, which may cost thousands of dollars over the long term.
Is Becoming a Dog Trainer a Good Investment?
Depending on your career goals, becoming a dog trainer can be an excellent investment.
If you love working with animals and want to help ensure others have an obedient furry friend, then this could be the career you want.
The cost of training programs and other costs after you enter the field can be off-putting to some, but the financial and fulfilling rewards you receive are worth the investment.
Key Takeaways
In summary, it is highly recommended that those who wish to become dog trainers enroll in a training program to learn the proper techniques to deal with the diversity of animal behavior and be the most effective once entering the field.
The cost of a program can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the program’s focus, reputation, location, and length.
Once completing a program, seeking a certification will cost an additional several hundred dollars due to application and exam fees, the cost of membership in the organization, and membership renewal.
Additional costs after earning the certification can range from $600 to over $30,000 if you want to open a business.
Joining an established company will not cost you much since they provide all equipment, marketing, and insurance.
Becoming a dog trainer may have hefty initial price tags at the beginning, but learning the skills of most careers requires some type of upfront investment.
Most dog trainers are satisfied with their career path and would agree that it’s a good investment!
