How to Become a Dog Obedience Trainer in Pennsylvania

Dog obedience trainers are professionals who can communicate with dogs to facilitate certain behaviors, from performative and acting to behavioral modification. Aspiring dog obedience trainers in Pennsylvania must follow a few well-defined steps to start their careers.

Individuals in the state interested in pursuing this profession will be glad to know that we have broken down all of these requirements in the guide below. We start by exploring the conditions that candidates must meet to secure enrollment into a training program.

Then, we break down the kinds of education to acquire, the considerations for improving career prospects, and possible certification alternatives, among other things.

Steps to Become a Dog Obedience Trainer in Pennsylvania

Below are the requirements for starting a dog obedience training career in Pennsylvania.

Attending a Training Program

Attending a training program as a future dog obedience trainer does not have to require in-person attendance. Candidates can attend online programs, pick up relevant skills, and practice independently.

Of course, those who want to attend an in-person program if they please. Ultimately, candidates should graduate with a diploma or certificate, signifying time spent in an official program.

Below, you will explore some prominent options for residents to consider regarding their dog training education in Pennsylvania.

Building Practical Skills

After classroom training in an in-person or online environment, prospective dog trainers in Pennsylvania are expected to pick up actual skills working with real dogs in a practical environment. Those who completed an in-person program would have done this, usually towards the latter part of their training.

Those who still need to can spend further time learning on the job under a certified trainer.

Employment & Career Opportunities

After their dog obedience training education, most dog obedience trainers choose to start their own business. However, some may work as part of a team of established trainers.

They may also consider optimizations like certification to improve their career prospects.

Consider exploring other careers with similar paths:

• Become a vet technician in Pennsylvania

Top Dog Obedience Training Schools in Pennsylvania

The entries below are among the top programs for future dog obedience trainers in Pennsylvania to consider.

Explore neighboring states for education and training:

• Dog obedience training schools in New Jersey

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Candidates can become successful dog obedience trainers in Pennsylvania after receiving the right level of education. This is because professionals in the state are expected to become neither licensed nor certified.

However, certification offers many professional benefits, and individuals are expected to consider it seriously. Certified dog trainers are perceived to be more credible among peers and customers.

They are in greater demand and enjoy access to an array of tools and educational resources, which they leverage for career advancement. For those looking to become certified dog obedience trainers in Pennsylvania, the International Association of Canine Professionals has a couple of credentials for entry-level professionals.

The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants also offer highly rated and nationally recognized credentials for dog trainers.