Dog trainer job description
Where we source our data
Let’s get real. Job information online can often be overly optimistic — conveniently glossing over the raw bits. But when you’re making decisions about your future, you need all the facts.
That’s why we anonymously surveyed dog trainers about their job, with hopes of getting an honest insight into what it’s really like.
While we did our best to ensure respondents were Australians and verified their job titles with proof of employment, we can’t guarantee complete accuracy — or that your experiences in the field will reflect theirs. So, we suggest that you take these insights as a guide only and try to talk to people in the field before making an important decision.
Where we source our data
Let’s get real. Job information online can often be overly optimistic — conveniently glossing over the raw bits. But when you’re making decisions about your future, you need all the facts.
That’s why we anonymously surveyed dog trainers about their job, with hopes of getting an honest insight into what it’s really like.
While we did our best to ensure respondents were Australians and verified their job titles with proof of employment, we can’t guarantee complete accuracy — or that your experiences in the field will reflect theirs. So, we suggest that you take these insights as a guide only and try to talk to people in the field before making an important decision.
Cooperative
Based on our career survey data, these are the words that workers would use to describe their jobs.
Physical
Based on our career survey data, these are the words that workers would use to describe their jobs.
Persuading
Based on our career survey data, these are the words that workers would use to describe their jobs.
Tasks and responsibilities for a dog trainer
So, what exactly do dog trainers do? A dog trainer’s main tasks include:
- Designing training plans
- Conducting classes in dog obedience with other dogs and their owners
- Teaching owners and supporting them on how to establish good habits day-to-day to ensure training is effective
- Identifying potential behavioural problems
- Communicating any issues to the dog owners for further attention
- Providing training for assistance dogs, detection dogs, police dogs, guide dogs or show dogs
Reasons to choose this job
Based on our career survey data, these are the factors that workers said were most important to them when choosing this job.
Enjoyable
Building relationships with dogs and working with them every day can be fun. Plus, watching them learn new skills and helping their owners to feel more confident can be highly fulfilling.
Makes a difference
Training dogs and teaching owners how to connect with their dogs effectively makes a huge difference in the lives they share. In specialised training roles, trainers work with guide dogs to improve the quality of life for sight-impaired people. Trainers who work with rescue dogs aid in the rehabilitation of mistreated animals, giving them a second chance at life.
Flexible hours
Dog training can be a full-time career part-time or casual — leaving time for family commitments or other job roles. You could even start your dog training business.
Job satisfaction
Overall job satisfaction
This overall score combines the critical factors in job satisfaction. It includes fulfilment, stress levels, and opportunities for advancement, based on our career survey data.
Stress level
How stressful workers feel their job is, based on our career survey data.
Fulfilment
How personally rewarding workers feel their job is, based on our career survey data.
Skill level
The skill level required to do this job is based on both our career survey data and official data from the Labour Market Information Portal.
Job market trends for a dog trainer
Australia will always need dog trainers, with one of the world’s highest pet ownership rates. In addition, a surge in dog ownership has been seen in the last two years — with over a million additional dogs being brought into households.
With a considerable uptake of pooches in Aussie homes, there comes a need for experienced trainers, and the predicted growth for the job remains very stable.
Median salary
Where this data comes from
Median salary
We use the median salary over the average because it’s more realistic — unusually high or low salaries don’t skew the median. It shows the true middle point, which is what your typical worker in this job earns.
This figure is from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. It’s the official median full-time adult salary for non-managers, before tax. (Includes salary sacrifice.)
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours (cat. no. 6306.0), Customised Report
Projected job growth
Job growth projections, using data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. These calculations were made before COVID-19 and may not accurately reflect the labour market. Use these numbers as a general guide only.
Where this data comes from
Median salary
We use the median salary over the average because it’s more realistic — unusually high or low salaries don’t skew the median. It shows the true middle point, which is what your typical worker in this job earns.
This figure is from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. It’s the official median full-time adult salary for non-managers, before tax. (Includes salary sacrifice.)
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours (cat. no. 6306.0), Customised Report
Projected job growth
Job growth projections, using data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. These calculations were made before COVID-19 and may not accurately reflect the labour market. Use these numbers as a general guide only.
Projected job growth
Where this data comes from
Median salary
We use the median salary over the average because it’s more realistic — unusually high or low salaries don’t skew the median. It shows the true middle point, which is what your typical worker in this job earns.
This figure is from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. It’s the official median full-time adult salary for non-managers, before tax. (Includes salary sacrifice.)
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours (cat. no. 6306.0), Customised Report
Projected job growth
Job growth projections, using data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. These calculations were made before COVID-19 and may not accurately reflect the labour market. Use these numbers as a general guide only.
Where this data comes from
Median salary
We use the median salary over the average because it’s more realistic — unusually high or low salaries don’t skew the median. It shows the true middle point, which is what your typical worker in this job earns.
This figure is from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. It’s the official median full-time adult salary for non-managers, before tax. (Includes salary sacrifice.)
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours (cat. no. 6306.0), Customised Report
Projected job growth
Job growth projections, using data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. These calculations were made before COVID-19 and may not accurately reflect the labour market. Use these numbers as a general guide only.
Pathway options
Job pathways are drawn from the Australian Apprenticeships Pathways site.
Being a dog trainer can be a gratifying career. Plus, starting in this role can also lead you to further study or work in other animal-related roles.
Future career options:
Junior
-
Apprentice animal trainer
Most common qualification: Certificate IV in Companion Animal Services (ACM40317)
-
Assistant dog trainer
Most common qualification: Certificate III in Dog Behaviour and Training (22542VIC)
Mid
-
Animal behaviourist
Most common qualification: Certificate IV in Companion Animal Services (ACM40317)
-
Animal trainer
Most common qualification: Certificate IV in Companion Animal Services (ACM40317)
Skills you might already have
Based on our career survey data, the soft skills that workers said were most needed to do their job well.
If you have had your own dog as a pet, you already know more than others about dog training. Having experience setting good habits and the care it takes to work with animals are all skills you can bring to the table.
These skills may include:
Empathy
To work in any role with animals, a caring and compassionate nature is a must. An innate ability to empathise and put the dog’s welfare first also allows you to set an excellent example to owners, showing them that a caring nature goes a long way when dealing with dogs.
Confidence around animals
Dogs can be unpredictable, and many that have had no training can be harder to handle. Having knowledge and confidence around dogs is essential for the safety of the dogs and others around them.
Problem-solving
Some dogs (and owners) are easier to train than others. Identifying when something isn’t working and quickly finding a resolution is a massive advantage in this role.
Patience
Like people, no dog is the same. Some may learn quickly, and some may need constant reminding of a simple command. Being patient, consistent and using positive reinforcement with dogs is the best way for them to learn and feel safe.
Communication
A role as a dog trainer requires communicating with animals, but arguably, the most critical communication happens with the pet owner. They need to take the skills taught in lessons home with them and use them effectively.
Hard skills
The job-specific skills that workers said were most important, supplemented with data from JobOutlook and online job advertisements.
Studying a course through a recognised training organisation teaches you essential skills needed to succeed at your job. These skills are specific to a role in dog training, and are needed every day.
Some of the skills required are:
Dog anatomy and canine behaviour recognition
Animals tell us a lot by the way they behave and their body language. In a training setting, it’s essential to have a firm understanding of these behaviours and knowledge of their anatomy.
Safety around dogs
It is vital to have procedures and guidelines established around potentially dangerous situations, so you can keep the dogs safe, along with anyone else involved.
Dog obedience training methods
Knowledge of tried and tested training techniques ensures you are providing the best service to your customers.
Training program design
Dog trainers must know how to put together a time-efficient and easy to follow lesson plan.
Animal welfare assessment
Having a solid understanding of animal welfare requirements is a must for any dog training business. Dog trainers need to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the client and dog and implement safety measures where required.
As a trainer, excellent communication skills and a love for both people and dogs is a must.
Shannon Kirwin, Dog Behaviourist and Training Director at Furever Life Canine Training
How to become a dog trainer
-
Volunteer at a dog training company
Contact any local dog training schools and offer your time on the weekend or after hours to assist in animal training sessions. It is a great way to get experience and may even open you up to job opportunities if they arise.
-
Study
Take a course in animal services or dog training. Courses allow you to learn the skills needed and makes you more attractive to prospective employers.
-
Apply for a dog training assistant role
Hands-on experience is the best way to learn, and a job as an assistant trainer can enhance your skills. You can start part-time if you wish to retain your current employment.
-
Start your own business
Once you have experience and are confident in dog training, you might like to start a business. If so, you need to research and apply for any local permits required.
Explore related qualifications
Dog Psychology & Training
Several short courses are available that provide you the basic skills needed to get into the dog training industry.
Some can be conducted 100% online, are self-paced and can be started at any time, meaning you can fit it around your current schedule.
5 providers offer this course
Certificate III in Companion Animal Services
For an overall and thorough course in animal services, this certificate provides you with skills in animal nutrition, grooming and the health and wellbeing of animals.
The course combines the flexibility of online learning and immediate enrolment. It also includes an invaluable work placement that could open up employment opportunities.
The course can be completed in six months full-time or over one year part-time.
1 providers offer this course
Related subjects
For those that love animals and have natural abilities in this area, there is no shortage of other animal-related career options available in Australia.
Reviews
How we collect reviews
Reviews are from Australian workers with this job title or a very closely related one.
Is this your job title?
Share your thoughts and help people decide if this job is right for them.
How we collect reviews
Reviews are from Australian workers with this job title or a very closely related one.
Is this your job title?
Share your thoughts and help people decide if this job is right for them.
- All
- Positive
- Negative
Linda
Sep 09 2021Able to change lives of both the dog and the owner.
What are the best parts of the job?
One of the best things about my job is the ability to change peoples lives - literally. Many people and families struggle every day with their dogs behavioural problems, creating havoc in their lives with many having to fit their lives around those of their dogs. One of the most rewarding aspects is seeing that light switch moment when they "get" their dog, and understand why he does what he does and how they are enabling and at times encouraging this. From the dog's perspective, it is extremely rewarding to be able to help them understand and fit in with our lifestyles and become more relaxed and engaged in their lives. When we can take the confusion and/or anxiety out of the equation in a dogs life, making his life more enjoyable and fullfilling, it is lifechanging for everyone.
What's the most challenging part?
I always say that training the dog is the easy bit. I think one of the most challenging aspects of dog training is being able to communicate effectively to owners and families as to why issues with their dogs are occurring and how in many cases, they are, at least in part, creating the problems. We need also to remember that generally speaking, families make decisions and are doing things that they believe are in the best interests of their dogs. Explaining how sometimes this isnt the case can be challenging, as we have to consider different personalities and ways people take in information. People also have different skill sets and learning their dogs body language, new skills with leash handling, timing of reward events, and at times changing their own perceptions can be challenging for both trainer and client. This is why it is so important to have empathy for clients and adapability in delivery of training and advice.
Kaveen
Sep 04 2021Enjoy helping animals but working on owner-animal interaction can be hard.
What are the best parts of the job?
I love helping animals and training them to be well-behaved.
What's the most challenging part?
Training dogs to love their owner when they don't have the best relationship can be difficult.
Nicholas
Sep 05 2021Dog interaction is exciting and a good challenge.
What are the best parts of the job?
Interactions with dogs one-on-one is the best part of the job.
What's the most challenging part?
Its all challenging but in an exciting, positive way.
Related articles
Access the resources you need and more information on the animal-care sector. Discover industry insights, qualification requirements and real-life interviews and success stories:
Career Quiz - Animal Care
Read More
From Retail Manager to Dog Groomer: An Inside Look into the Animal Care Industry
Read More
5 Truths About Being a Dog Groomer, Told by a Dog Groomer
Read More
4 Jobs for Every Type of Animal Lover
Read More
What is an Animal Carer and How Do You Become One?
Read More
Zoology: Complete Career Guide + Salary | How to Become a Zoologist
Read More
Seniors Over 60: The Best 11 Jobs for You
Read More![15 Best Working From Home Jobs in 2022: How to Make Money From Home Online [Updated]](https://www.training.com.au/wp-content/uploads/TRAU_work_from_home__Feature.png)
15 Best Working From Home Jobs in 2022: How to Make Money From Home Online [Updated]
Read More
7 Jobs That Allow You to Work Outdoors
Read More
Career Quiz: What Job Should I Do? (Backed by Real Data)
Read More
Career Quiz Results: The Carer
Read More
51 Best Remote Jobs: How You Can Earn a Living Entirely Online
Read More
What Qualification Should You Take On? (New Guide)
Read More
Career Change Later in Life: 3 Success Stories That Will Inspire You
Read More
Job cluster: The Carer
What are job clusters?
The seven job clusters are sets of closely related jobs that share skills, making it easy to apply skills learned in one career to another.
The idea of the seven job clusters first appeared in a 2016 research report by the Foundation for Young Australians, titled “The New Work Mindset”. Researchers analysed thousands of online job advertisements and found that jobs are more similar than commonly thought — and the skills you gain in one position are easy to bring to another. In fact, they can help you get 13 other closely related jobs.
This model is a great way to think about 21st-century careers, where the average person changes career five times. We’ve used this framework (along with the much-loved Holland Codes model) to build a career quiz.
Why not take it and find out which job cluster feels like home?
What are job clusters?
The seven job clusters are sets of closely related jobs that share skills, making it easy to apply skills learned in one career to another.
The idea of the seven job clusters first appeared in a 2016 research report by the Foundation for Young Australians, titled “The New Work Mindset”. Researchers analysed thousands of online job advertisements and found that jobs are more similar than commonly thought — and the skills you gain in one position are easy to bring to another. In fact, they can help you get 13 other closely related jobs.
This model is a great way to think about 21st-century careers, where the average person changes career five times. We’ve used this framework (along with the much-loved Holland Codes model) to build a career quiz.
Why not take it and find out which job cluster feels like home?
Having the patience and perseverance to work with animals and the communication skills to teach people how to implement your training plans at home is best suited to the career personality of The Carer.
People with the ‘Carer’ personality type thrive in environments where they can help all living things, and see fulfilment in others reaching their goals.
Take the Career Quiz to discover what jobs are a great fit for you.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dog trainer earn?
Entry-level positions in dog training start at around $57k per year, while most experienced workers (like assistance dog trainers) can earn up to about $81k per year.
What makes a good dog trainer?
A love for dogs, a strong ability to empathise, communicate and exercise patience are the keys to being a good dog trainer.
Is dog training a good career?
If you are a dog lover and love to see animals thrive and reach goals, a career in dog training is a great choice.
How long does it take to become a dog trainer?
While there’s no set time frame to become a dog trainer in Australia, it is recommended that you take some time to study in order to learn the essential skills.
What courses do you need to become a dog trainer?
No formal education is required for dog training, but it is recommended that you take a course in animal services or dog training to become more attractive to prospective employers.