How to Become a Dog Trainer in Maryland

If you’ve always had a passion for dogs or are thinking about switching careers, becoming a dog trainer in Maryland could be an excellent choice.

This rewarding profession is relatively easy to enter, and this guide will help you take the first steps.

In Maryland, certification is a requirement to work as a dog trainer, and I’ll guide you through the process of getting certified.

Additionally, I’ll recommend some top schools that offer the necessary training to get you started.

Keep reading to learn more!

Responsibilities of a Dog Trainer in Maryland

Dog trainers take on various important tasks, including:

• Teaching obedience commands
• Enhancing dogs’ socialization skills
• Evaluating each dog’s personality
• Tailoring training methods to fit individual dogs
• Instructing owners on how to reinforce the training at home

Trainers may also have additional responsibilities depending on the unique needs of the pets and their owners.

This career allows you to specialize in areas such as:

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

Even if you don’t specialize, you’ll still be equipped to identify behavioral issues and refer clients to experts when necessary.

Path to Certification as a Dog Trainer in Maryland

The journey toward certification begins with hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in dog training.

Here are some ways to gain this experience:

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

You can pursue certification once you’ve developed your skills and feel confident.

For instance, the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers offers one of the most recognized certifications.

The AKC requires 300 hours of training experience over the past three years, followed by passing a 180-question exam.

Consider joining associations like:

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

These organizations keep you informed about industry changes and when it’s time to renew your credentials.

Dog Training Certification Programs in Maryland

Here are a few schools offering dog training programs:

Animal Behavior College

This college offers online courses for aspiring dog trainers and a range of career options in different training specialties.

Although the courses are online, the program includes hands-on experience through partnerships with trainers nationwide.

The course lasts just one year, meaning you can begin your career quickly.

The tuition is approximately $2,700 if paid upfront.

Alternatively, paying in installments raises the total cost to $5,647.

The fee covers:

• 29 educational dog training videos
• Nearly 1,000 pages of study materials
• Practical training with a professional dog trainer
• Pet CPR and First Aid certifications (valid for two years)
• ABC Dog Trainer certification (lifetime validity)

The Academy of Pet Careers (APC)

The Academy of Pet Careers (APC) is here to help you achieve your dream of becoming a certified dog trainer in Maryland.

APC offers both online and in-person certification programs tailored to your learning style.

Whether you’re looking for a flexible online option to accommodate a busy schedule or prefer hands-on experience through in-person training, our nationally recognized school has you covered.

Their online dog training programs are available nationwide, including in Maryland.

Their in-person training takes place at our headquarters in St. Louis, MO, where housing options are available for out-of-state students.

Getting your certification through APC provides you with credentials that demonstrate the high level of training you’ve received.

This will help you stand out in Maryland’s competitive dog training industry, whether you’re starting your own business or joining an established team.

You’ll gain knowledge in the latest training techniques, behavior analysis, and key industry trends, ensuring you’re fully equipped for success.

You will get to learn from experienced professionals who are passionate about guiding the next generation of dog trainers.

The instructors are not only skilled educators but also dedicated trainers with extensive real-world experience.

The programs emphasize real-world training scenarios, preparing you to handle various situations, from puppy socialization to complex behavioral challenges.

You can train in a facility designed to simulate real-world environments.

Their cutting-edge training center offers the perfect setting for refining your skills and building confidence as a professional dog trainer.

Dog Trainer Salaries in Maryland

Dog trainer salaries in Maryland vary based on factors like:

• Experience
• Location
• Specialization
• Demand

On average, dog trainers in Maryland earn between $29,762 and $38,701 annually, with the average salary hovering around $33,682.

To give you a better idea, here’s a table detailing the average salaries for dog trainers across various cities in Maryland.

Regional Salary in Maryland

Dog Trainer by State