Dog Obedience Trainer / Instructor
Becoming a dog obedience trainer requires specific skills and knowledge regarding dog behavior, communication and use of the senses; how to influence dog behavior using conditioning and reinforcement; housetraining, crate training, hunting training, teach competition obedience, and basic veterinary issues; as well as how to deal with behavioral problems. Given the extent of knowledge required to excel in this field, getting a certification as a dog obedience trainer not only positions you for success in the field, but becomes a selling point for you professionally, allowing you to differentiate yourself from other dog obedience trainers that do not have the same formal education.
The Process
Reading books on dog behavior and obedience is also an important part of excelling in this field. Books provide useful information about the many different breeds of dogs, and common behavioral characteristics and training methodologies. As there are a huge number of books that address this field, enrolling in a certification course takes the guess-work out of which books should be read, and the order in which issues relevant to the field of dog obedience training should be learned. Also, a certification course can help you to establish the best balance between theories learned in books, and practical exercises with your dog. Applying what you've learned via hands-on experience is a crucial part of becoming a dog obedience instructor.
Applying your Knowledge
Once your are a certified dog obedience trainer, you have a number of options available to you. They include:
- Starting your own business as a dog obedience trainer
- Working at an established dog obedience training center
- Preparing dogs for work in search and rescue, security, law enforcement work, or roles as canine assistants for disabled people
As you can see, there is no shortage of opportunity in this field, and becoming a certified dog obedience trainer puts you in the best position for professional success.
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You can also find programs available online, in Canada and London too!
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