How to Become a Dog Trainer in Mississippi

If you’re passionate about dogs or contemplating a career switch, becoming a dog trainer in Mississippi could be an exciting and rewarding path to follow.

This career is relatively easy to get started in, and this guide will show you the steps to begin.

In Mississippi, certification is a key requirement to work as a dog trainer, and I’ll walk you through the process of becoming certified.

Additionally, I’ll introduce you to some of the top training programs to help you get on the right track.

Keep reading to discover the path to becoming a certified dog trainer!

Key Responsibilities of a Dog Trainer in Mississippi

Dog trainers take on various responsibilities, including:

• Teaching dogs basic obedience commands
• Enhancing socialization skills
• Evaluating each dog’s temperament and personality
• Customizing training methods to suit individual dogs
• Instructing dog owners on how to continue training at home

Beyond these core duties, trainers may also need to address specific requirements for both the dogs and their owners.

Dog training offers opportunities to specialize in areas such as:

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

Even without a specialization, you’ll have the skills to identify behavioral concerns and recommend professional specialists when needed.

Steps to Becoming a Certified Dog Trainer in Mississippi

Your journey toward certification starts with hands-on experience and gaining a solid understanding of dog training principles.

Here are some ways to build your knowledge:

• Attending dog training workshops
• Enrolling in training classes
• Participating in relevant seminars
• Watching educational videos on dog training techniques
• Volunteering at animal shelters
• Shadowing experienced trainers to observe their methods

Once you’ve gained experience and feel confident in your skills, you can pursue certification.

One of the most recognized certifications is offered by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).

This council requires 300 hours of hands-on experience within three years, followed by a comprehensive exam with 180 questions.

Consider joining reputable professional organizations such as:

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

These organizations keep you informed about changes in the industry and help you maintain your credentials.

Dog Trainer Certification Programs in Mississippi

Here are some well-known training programs that can help you achieve certification:

Animal Behavior College (ABC)

ABC offers online courses designed for aspiring dog trainers, providing comprehensive knowledge across multiple specialties.

Although the classes are online, practical experience is integrated through partnerships with professional trainers across the country.

The program lasts approximately one year, which means you can begin working as a dog trainer relatively quickly.

Tuition starts at around $2,700 when paid upfront, but installment plans can raise the cost to $5,647.

The tuition covers:

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

The Academy of Pet Careers (APC)

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

They provide flexible options, including housing for out-of-state students at their St. Louis, MO headquarters.

Graduating from APC will earn you nationally recognized credentials, helping you stand out in Mississippi’s competitive dog training market, whether you’re starting your own business or joining an established training team.

The curriculum covers the latest dog training techniques, behavior analysis, and industry insights.

You’ll benefit from hands-on training under the guidance of skilled professionals who are passionate about mentoring new trainers.

APC places a strong emphasis on real-world training scenarios, preparing you to handle situations ranging from puppy socialization to more advanced behavioral challenges.

Their cutting-edge training facility provides a professional environment to help you build confidence and refine your skills.

Dog Trainer Salaries in Mississippi

Salaries for dog trainers in Mississippi can vary depending on factors such as:

• Level of experience
• Geographic location
• Specialization
• Market demand

On average, dog trainers in Mississippi can expect to earn between $24,378 and $31,700 annually, with a median salary of approximately $27,589.

To provide more insight, here’s a breakdown of the average salaries for dog trainers in different cities across Mississippi.

This will help you get a better idea of what to expect salary-wise after you are done with education and training.

Dog Trainer by State