Dog Trainer

A Dog Trainer works with dogs and their owners to improve behaviours or teach specific skills. You might attempt to eliminate problem behaviours such as excessive barking or aggression or address an issue such as social skills. Dog Trainers may use techniques to get dogs to follow commands or perform particular tasks. You might work with domestic pets or working dogs.

Dog Trainers should be patient and have excellent animal handling skills. It’s important that you understand dog behaviours and can call on a range of strategies to help dogs reach their goals. Dog Trainers require good communication skills because you’ll usually be working with owners or other dog handlers.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $69,940
Skill level Beginner

How do I become a dog trainer?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
ACMMIC401

Implant Microchip in Cats and Dogs
Blended
1 - 2 days
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Animal Attendant Veterinary Nurse Animal Control Officer
Pet Groomer Animal Welfare Officer Dog Trainer Animal Behaviourist
+ 4 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Animal Attendant Veterinary Nurse Animal Control Officer Pet Groomer Animal Welfare Officer Dog Trainer Animal Behaviourist + 4 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Apprentice Animal Trainer

An Apprentice Animal Trainer modifies animal behaviour, trains therapy, service, and performance animals, and guides owners on handling techniques.

Avg yearly income $49,920
Skill level Beginner

Assistant Dog Trainer

An Assistant Dog Trainer uses various strategies to train dogs in obedience or behaviour modification, working with both pets and service animals.

Avg yearly income $52,000
Skill level Beginner

Animal Trainer

An Animal Trainer teaches commands and behaviours to various animals, educates owners on training strategies, and requires patience, skill, and communication.

Avg yearly income $65,000
Skill level Beginner

Animal Behaviourist

An Animal Behaviourist identifies and addresses behavioural issues in animals, creating training programmes while advising owners on effective solutions.

Avg yearly income $78,520
Skill level Advanced

Common questions

How much does a Dog Trainer earn?

In Australia, a full time Dog Trainer generally earns $1,345 per week ($69,940 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

What are the job opportunities for a Dog Trainer?

This industry has experienced strong employment growth in recent years. There are currently 1,100 people working as a Dog Trainer in Australia, compared to 840 five years ago. Dog Trainers may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How do I become a Dog Trainer?

If you’re planning a career as a Dog Trainer, consider enrolling in a Certificate IV in Companion Animal Services. This course covers all aspects of pet care, companionship and training. You’ll explore a range of topics including retail operations and business skills.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

Further reading

How to start a career in Dog Training

26th August 2021

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