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Assistant Dog Trainer

An Assistant Dog Trainer uses various strategies to train dogs in obedience or behaviour modification, working with both pets and service animals.

How do I become a assistant dog trainer

Get qualified to work as a assistant dog trainer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Assistant Dog Trainer.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Assistant Dog Trainer generally earns $1,000 per week ($52,000 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.

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There’s been an increase in the number of dog handlers and trainers in recent years. There are currently 1,100 people in this industry in Australia and many of them work as Assistant Dog Trainers. This type of work can be found in all areas of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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A Certificate III in Animal Studies is a great qualification to have if you want to work as an Assistant Dog Trainer. You might be able to specialise in a particular area of interest and will learn about all aspects of animal health, nutrition and hygiene.

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Further reading

How to start a career in Dog Training

26th August 2021

How to start a career as a Personal Assistant

2nd December 2021

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

10th November 2023

Assistant Dog Trainer careers

An Assistant Dog Trainer uses a range of training strategies to get dogs to follow commands or do specific duties. You might also work with dogs to eliminate negative behaviour or address a particular issue. You might train one dog at a time or work with dogs in a group setting. Your role might be with domestic pets or service animals like security dogs or assistance animals.

Assistant Dog Trainers need to have excellent dog handling skills but should also be good at communicating with people. You’ll often have to share your knowledge with dog owners or handlers and you might work as part of a larger team. Being an Assistant Dog Trainer can be physically demanding and you might work irregular hours or on weekends. You’ll need to be patient and have a good understanding of animal behaviour.