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Dog Trainer

A Dog Trainer teaches dogs and their owners new behaviours and skills, addressing issues like aggression or social skills while requiring patience and strong communication.

How do I become a dog trainer

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

Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Dog Trainer.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Dog Trainer generally earns $1,345 per week ($69,940 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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This industry has experienced strong employment growth in recent years. There are currently 1,100 people working as a Dog Trainer in Australia, compared to 840 five years ago. Dog Trainers may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If you’re planning a career as a Dog Trainer, consider enrolling in a Certificate IV in Companion Animal Services. This course covers all aspects of pet care, companionship and training. You’ll explore a range of topics including retail operations and business skills.

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Further reading

How to start a career in Dog Training

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15th September 2022

Dog Trainer careers

A Dog Trainer works with dogs and their owners to improve behaviours or teach specific skills. You might attempt to eliminate problem behaviours such as excessive barking or aggression or address an issue such as social skills. Dog Trainers may use techniques to get dogs to follow commands or perform particular tasks. You might work with domestic pets or working dogs.

Dog Trainers should be patient and have excellent animal handling skills. It’s important that you understand dog behaviours and can call on a range of strategies to help dogs reach their goals. Dog Trainers require good communication skills because you’ll usually be working with owners or other dog handlers.