How to Become a Dog Obedience Trainer in Iowa

Dog obedience trainers need a robust understanding of dog psychology and body language. However, they also need various soft skills to devise solutions, including interpersonal, communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

Below, we thoroughly explore the considerations involved in acquiring these skills and becoming a successful dog obedience trainer in Iowa. The guide begins with an overview of the foundational steps before focusing on possible training alternatives and specific programs.

Candidates will also discover the licensing and certification alternatives for dog obedience trainers in Iowa and the importance of certification for career opportunities.

Steps to Become a Dog Obedience Trainer in Iowa

Aspiring dog obedience trainers in Iowa may consider the outline below to launch their careers.

Basic Requirements

Only a little is expected of dog obedience trainers in Iowa regarding academic education. However, candidates are expected to be familiar with their prospective duties.

They should also familiarize themselves with possible concentrations and specialty areas in the field.

Educational Options

There are various destinations for aspiring dog obedience trainers in Iowa to consult for their education. For instance, they can enroll in an online program or participate in an in-person one.

They may also combine both approaches through a hybrid arrangement, where they study online and practice in a real-world facility. Later in the guide, we explore some prominent training programs for aspiring dog obedience trainers in Iowa.

Job Placement

In seeking job placement, individuals may leverage their training programs to secure placement with top training agencies in the state. They may also choose to start their own business once they feel they have enough skills.

Business Acumen

Starting a dog obedience training business requires a strong understanding of business principles. Candidates must leverage technology and online resources to reach potential clients and build a reputable brand.

Explore careers with similar paths:

• How to become a veterinary assistant in Iowa

Top Dog Obedience Trainer Schools in Iowa

Iowa offers the following programs for future dog obedience trainers.

Explore nearby states for education and training:

• Dog obedience training schools in Wisconsin

Licensure & Certification Requirements

In Iowa, dog obedience trainers are not required to consider licensing or certification. The state allows candidates to start a career in this profession without becoming licensed or certified by any organization.

However, because employers have the prerogative of who to hire, many will choose to go with certified dog obedience trainers over those who still need to be certified. In their eyes, certification has proven that a candidate has all the skills required to perform their duties at a high level.

Those who would like to become certified as dog obedience trainers in Iowa may consider the following certifying bodies:

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers,
• International Association of Canine Professionals and the
• International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.

Along with easier employment, certification helps with career growth, networking resources, and higher salary figures.

Salary & Career Outlook

Dog obedience trainers in Iowa can be divided into three categories depending on their salary at the end of each year. A survey of professionals in the state revealed that those in the top 10% in the first category make around $143,768 annually.

The second category comprises the bottom 10%, taking home an annual average salary of $28,289, while the third category includes the median earners, who make around $59,616. Candidates can improve their yearly earnings by working on their credentials, experience level, and business strategy.

Location also plays a role. Iowa City is the highest-paying city, with an annual average salary of $149,259. Dog obedience trainers in Waverly and Des Moines earn annual average salaries of $81,782 and $49,029, respectively.

The trajectory for the field is overwhelmingly positive for the next decade, as projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.