How to Become a Dog Obedience Trainer in Ohio

Dog obedience trainers in Ohio are called upon for several purposes, including helping to facilitate specific behaviors in dogs, teaching them to pull off a targeted performance, or even training them for duties as a service animal or in law enforcement.

Individuals who would like to start a bright career as dog obedience trainers in Ohio will be glad to know that we have highlighted every major consideration they have to make below. Among other things, we explore the salary prospects, certification courses, educational pathways, and other steps to take for career advancement.

We also explore the career outlook for the profession as predicted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Steps to Become a Dog Obedience Trainer in Ohio

Successful dog obedience trainers in Ohio typically follow the path below to start their careers.

Preparatory Considerations

Individuals are expected to prepare for their dog obedience training career in Ohio by becoming familiar with the specialty areas and overall job description. They may also start developing business plans and structures as early as possible.

Choosing a Training Program

Candidates may choose an online option that allows them to move at their own pace when choosing a training program. They may also consider enrolling in a program requiring them to attend in-person classes.

Regardless of their preferred learning structure, the most important thing is for students to become familiar with the fundamental principles of dog training and prepare for further training on the job.

Working with Actual Dogs

Candidates are expected to work with actual dogs and train them to practice what they have learned through a course or online material. Many training programs have both a classroom learning element and a hands-on element. Candidates may also acquire further training by working under experienced trainers.

Continuing Education

Once they start their careers, dog obedience trainers in Ohio are expected to keep improving and keeping up with innovations in the field. Certification is a proven way to achieve this and enjoy career opportunities.

We look further into the possible options below.

Consider exploring other careers with similar paths:

• Become a vet assistant in Ohio

Top Dog Obedience Training Schools in Ohio

The programs below are among the top options for aspiring dog obedience trainers in Ohio.

Explore neighboring states for education and training:

• Dog obedience training schools in Michigan

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Individuals about to start their dog obedience training careers in Ohio will be glad to know that they are expected to be licensed before they can start taking on professional contracts. Although it is not compulsory, certification is one thing they must consider seriously.

The truth is that certified dog obedience trainers are viewed more favorably by their peers and prospective customers. They also enjoy continuing education resources and networking opportunities.

Candidates who want to be certified have several credentials and organizations to consider, all of which are enough to set them apart and help them enjoy the benefits listed above.

Some prominent options include the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors, the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, and the International Association of Canine Professionals.

Salary & Career Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a significant rise in demand for dog obedience trainers over the coming years. Data revealed by the bureau shows that this profession is set to grow by around 22%, which is significantly faster than the average for other occupations.

In Ohio, dog obedience trainers start their careers with an annual average salary of around $39,387 - $71,856. These figures are relevant for the bottom 10% and the median earners, respectively.

With factors like time, experience, location, and credentials in their favor, they can increase their earnings to as high as $131,091, which is relevant for the top 10%.

Considering location alone, Delaware, OH, holds the top spot as Ohio’s highest-paying city for dog obedience trainers. Professionals here make around $73,373 on average at the end of each year.

Also notable are Akron and Cleveland, with annual average salaries of $70,394 and $67,705 respectively.