How to Become a Dog Obedience Trainer in California

California is one of the best places in the world to work as a dog obedience trainer. State residents in this field are well-appreciated and highly sought-after for their unique expertise.

A few missteps may be fatal in launching a successful dog obedience training career. To avoid inappropriate mistakes, we have provided the comprehensive guide below showcasing how to begin a dog obedience training career in California.

Readers will learn how to prepare for training, what training avenues are best, some specific training programs, career outlook, and salary averages based on a survey of state professionals.

Steps to Become a Dog Obedience Trainer in California

The following are the steps to becoming a successful dog obedience trainer in California.

Prerequisites

The first step to becoming a successful dog obedience trainer in California is understanding the field’s fundamentals and possible focus areas. Candidates may, for instance, choose to work with police dogs or domestic canines.

They may also develop a clear picture of their schedule and business formula.

Enrolling in a Program

Enrolling in a training program is the most important part of starting a successful dog obedience training career. Many people start their careers self-taught because no law mandates academic education.

However, those who want to go as deep into the field as possible must consider attending an official training program. These programs offer other benefits, including networking opportunities and the potential to earn a valuable certificate or diploma that graduates may use to attract potential customers.

Candidates may consider online, in-person, or a hybrid format of education.

Developing Hands-On Experience

Lastly, after theoretical training, prospective dog obedience trainers in California may receive hands-on experience by working with actual dogs. Some programs provide this as part of their curriculum, while others don’t.

Explore careers with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a dog groomer in California

Top Dog Obedience Training Schools in California

The list below contains some top programs for aspiring dog obedience trainers in California.

Consider exploring nearby states for training:

• Dog Obedience Trainer Schools in Arizona

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Unsurprisingly, dog trainers are expected to receive a state license after they can start working in California. They are not expected to receive certification, but many will pursue voluntary certification to establish credibility and improve their career prospects.

For those who fall into this category, there are several prominent organizations and associations to consider for highly-rated credentials. These include the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers and the International Association of Canine Professionals.

Dog obedience trainers should be prepared to participate in additional certification courses before earning these credentials.

It should also be said that if a dog trainer offers boarding or grooming services, they must consider the local health and business regulations.

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary of a dog obedience trainer in California depends on their experience. Generally, those just starting are expected to make less than those established in the field.

Due to this, the figures are divided into three broad categories: the top-level category, the median earning category, and the bottom 10% category. The top-level earners manage an annual average salary of as high as $225,702 or even more.

The median level earners manage an annual average salary of $111,618, while the bottom earners make an annual average salary of $55,199. Location, specialty, and credentials are also key factors.

Projections for dog obedience training in all major California cities are quite positive. Demand for these professionals will increase steadily over the next decade.

The best places in California to work in this field are Los Angeles, with an annual average salary of $177,428; Thousand Oaks, with an annual average salary of $107,821; and Oakland, with an annual average salary of $101,981.