How to Become a Dog Trainer in Arkansas

Are you passionate about dogs and eager to turn that passion into a fulfilling career?

It’s a rewarding career that’s fairly simple to get into, and this guide will walk you through everything you need to get started.

In Arkansas, certification is required to work as a dog trainer, and I’ll break down the steps needed to get certified.

You’re in the right place!

I’ll share some top schools where you can receive the necessary training.

Job Duties of a Dog Trainer in Arkansas

All occupations have specific responsibilities that must be completed daily.

Dog trainers are responsible for a wide range of important tasks, including:

• Teaching dogs obedience commands
• Enhancing dogs’ social skills
• Assessing each dog’s temperament
• Able to handle dogs with temperaments of all types
• Tailoring training methods to suit individual dogs
• Guiding owners on how to maintain training at home
• Knowing the differences between dog breeds

Additional responsibilities may arise depending on the specific needs of the pets and their owners.

This profession also provides the opportunity to specialize in areas such as:

• Agility training
• Service dog training
• Behavior modification for dogs with anxiety or aggression

Trainers who don’t specialize can still identify behavioral issues and refer clients to specialists when needed.

Steps Towards Certification as a Dog Trainer in Arkansas

The first step toward becoming a certified dog trainer is gaining hands-on experience and expanding your knowledge of dog training.

You can do this in several ways:

• Attending workshops
• Participating in dog training classes
• Attending seminars
• Watching instructional videos on training techniques
• Volunteering at animal shelters
• Networking with experienced trainers and observing their sessions

Owning a dog can also make the learning process easier, giving you a chance to practice regularly.

Once you’ve developed your skills and feel confident, you can move forward with certification.

It’s also a smart idea to join professional organizations, such as:

• The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
• The American Kennel Club (AKC)

These organizations keep you updated on industry trends and notify you when it’s time to renew your certification.

One of the most highly respected credentials is from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).

To meet the AKC’s requirements, you must complete 300 hours of dog training experience within the last three years and pass a 180-question multiple-choice exam.

However, you’ll need to look up the regulations in the state regarding a dog trainer.

It’s possible that soon you’ll be required to become licensed for this occupation, as opposed to being certified.

Dog Training Certification Programs in Arkansas

In Arkansas, there are several schools you can choose from if you want to become a dog trainer.

Let’s see some of them!

The Academy of Pet Careers (APC)

This academy is based in Missouri, but this shouldn’t hold you back from enrolling.

It offers both in-person and online classes, providing flexibility for students regardless of location.

The academy offers three career-focused schools to choose from:

• Dog Grooming School
• Veterinary Assistant School
• Dog Training School

You can earn a dog trainer certification through the online program, which awards the nationally recognized APC-PDT credential.

The online course is self-paced and provides access to both an instructor and post-graduation resources.

If you’re concerned about job placement, the academy offers job assistance to help you land a position after graduation.

The course can be completed in under 12 months.

All necessary dog training tools will be shipped directly to your doorstep.

These tools include:

• Harness and leash
• Portable water bowl
• Clicker
• Treat pouch
• Biothane leash
• Slip lead
• Dumbbell
• And more!

If you’re able to travel, there is also a 5-day workshop held in Missouri in which you can participate.

Tuition costs $5,500, but if paid in full, the total is reduced to $4,400.

Alternatively, you can opt for a two-year loan plan, with a $400 down payment followed by monthly payments of $228.

Salaries for Dog Trainers in Arkansas

It’s widely understood that several key factors impact earnings in any profession.

These factors include:

• Experience
• Location
• Specialty
• Demand

In Arkansas, dog trainers typically earn between $24,897 and $32,375 per year, with an average salary of around $28,176.

To give you a better understanding of how much you could earn, I’ve prepared a table displaying the average salaries for this job, from across different cities in Arkansas.

The table is right below.

Regional Salary in Arkansas

Dog Trainer by State