All careers

Animal Behaviourist

An Animal Behaviourist identifies and addresses behavioural issues in animals, creating training programmes while advising owners on effective solutions.

How do I become a animal behaviourist

Get qualified to work as a animal behaviourist with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Animal Behaviourist.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Animal Behaviourist generally earns $1,510 per week ($78,520 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

The number of people working in this industry has remained stable in recent years. There are currently 16,500 people working as an animal trainer in Australia and a small number of them specialise as an Animal Behaviourist. Animal Behaviourists may find work in all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

If you’re thinking of starting a career as an Animal Behaviourist, consider enrolling in a Certificate IV in Companion Animal Studies. This course explores a range of topics such as animal training and caring for animals.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

Further reading

How to start a career in Dog Training

26th August 2021

Most popular animal welfare and veterinary courses

12th April 2022

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

Animal Behaviourist careers

An Animal Behaviourist assesses problem behaviours in animals and works with owners to find a solution. You might observe animals to understand why issues may be occurring and provide advice on how best to improve a situation. Problem behaviours might include things like aggression, destructive activity or anxiety. Animal Behaviourists come up with training programs to modify behaviours and help owners to implement them.

Animal Behaviourists need to have excellent observational skills and be very good at a problem solving. You should have a strong understanding of animal behaviour and be very comfortable working with a range of animal issues. Animal Behaviourists should be patient and able to communicate well with both animals and people.