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If you’ve always loved dogs or are considering a career change, pursuing a role as a dog trainer in Colorado could be an ideal opportunity for you.
This rewarding profession is relatively easy to enter, and this guide will provide you with the essential steps to kickstart your journey.
In Colorado, dog trainers must obtain certification, and I’ll guide you through the process.
Additionally, I’ll highlight some excellent training programs to help you gain the skills needed for success.
Earn your accredited, affordable Dog Training Certificate online with Penn Foster!
Article Table of Contents
Popular Programs
Explore the Role of a Dog Trainer in Colorado
Dog trainers in Colorado have various essential responsibilities, including:
- Instructing dogs in obedience commands
- Enhancing dogs’ social interactions
- Evaluating each dog’s temperament
- Tailoring training methods to meet the unique needs of individual dogs
- Advising pet owners on reinforcing training techniques at home
Additional duties may arise based on the specific requirements of pets and their owners.
Moreover, dog trainers have the flexibility to specialize in areas such as:
- Agility training
- Service dog training
- Behavioral modification for dogs facing anxiety or aggression
Even trainers who do not focus on a specific specialty can identify behavioral concerns and refer clients to specialists as necessary.
Pathway to Certification as a Dog Trainer in Colorado
The initial step to becoming a certified dog trainer involves acquiring practical experience and knowledge in dog training.
You can achieve this through various avenues, such as:
- Attending workshops and seminars
- Participating in dog training courses
- Watching educational videos on training techniques
- Volunteering at animal shelters
- Networking with seasoned trainers and observing their sessions
When you’re confident in your abilities, you can take the next step by earning a certification.
Becoming a member of professional organizations such as the Association of Professional Dog Trainers or the American Kennel Club can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and certification renewal requirements.
One well-respected credential to pursue is offered by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.
To be eligible, you’ll need to complete 300 hours of hands-on training experience within the last three years and successfully pass a 180-question multiple-choice exam.
Dog Training Certification Programs Available in Colorado
Here are some schools where you can enroll to begin your journey toward becoming a dog trainer!
The Academy of Pet Careers (APC) 
At The Academy of Pet Careers (APC), the teachers are dedicated to helping you achieve your goal of becoming a certified dog trainer in Colorado.
APC offers a range of dog training certification options, both online and in-person, tailored to suit various learning styles.
Whether you need a flexible online program that fits your busy schedule or prefer the immersive experience of face-to-face instruction, this nationally recognized school has the ideal solution for you.
The APC online dog training courses are accessible throughout the U.S., including Colorado.
For those interested in in-person learning, the main campus is located in St. Louis, MO, and we provide housing options for out-of-state students.
The school offers recognized credentials that highlight your achievement in dog training.
These credentials will distinguish you from the competition as you embark on your career or seek opportunities in the Colorado dog training industry.
Their curriculum is designed to equip you with:
- The most up-to-date dog training techniques,
- Behavioral understanding,
- Essential industry knowledge.
The courses encompass a wide range of topics from foundational obedience to specialized training for sports and service dogs.
You will learn from industry veterans committed to sharing their extensive knowledge and insights.
The programs prioritize practical training, ensuring you’re ready to tackle real-world training scenarios.
From socializing puppies to managing behavioral issues, you will acquire the skills needed to excel in the field.
You will also get to practice in a facility designed to replicate real-world environments.
The academy also offers job placement assistance and career mentoring.
With the network of Colorado hiring partners, we connect you with businesses actively seeking qualified dog trainers.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| The Academy of Pet Careers | online classes |
Earn your accredited, affordable Dog Training Certificate online with Penn Foster!
Salary Expectations for Dog Trainers in Colorado
As with any profession, earnings can vary based on several factors, including:
- Experience level
- Geographic location
- Specialty area
- Demand for services
In Colorado, dog trainers typically earn between $27,876 and $36,249 annually, with the average salary hovering around $31,548.
To provide further insight, I’ve prepared a table showcasing the average salaries for dog trainers across various cities in Colorado.
See the table right below.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Boulder | $32,444 |
| Lafayette | $32,414 |
| Erie | $32,383 |
| Allenspark | $32,321 |
| Broomfield | $31,888 |
| Grand Junction | $31,733 |
| Denver | $31,486 |
| Aurora | $31,486 |
| Arvada | $31,486 |
| Jefferson | $31,486 |
Regional Salary in Colorado
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO | 90 | $43,430 | $20.88 | $62,920 | $35,710 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best reasons to work as a dog trainer in Colorado?
There are several good reasons for such a career:
- Being able to work according to the schedule you set
- You can also have a main job and other hobbies
- You could earn around $100 per hour
Which skills do I need as a dog trainer in Colorado?
These next skills are important for this job:
- Patience
- Physical strength
- Communication skills
- Not being bothered by the weather conditions
- Liking dogs a lot
- Being able to work with other animals as well
What are some occupations similar to dog trainers in Colorado?
These next occupations can be performed after a dog trainer program and certifications.
The professions are also related, and I’ll list them below:
-
Master Dog Trainer
-
Certified Dog Trainer
-
Assistant Dog Trainer
-
Dog Trainer Apprentice
-
Professional Dog Trainer
-
Guide Dog Trainer
-
Dog Groomer
-
Yard Dog
-
Dog Walker
-
Dog Daycare
Read the full guide: How to Become a Dog Trainer
Dog Trainer by State