How to Become a Dog Trainer in Montana

If you’re passionate about working with dogs or considering a career change, becoming a dog trainer in Montana could be an exciting and rewarding option.

This career is relatively easy to enter, and this guide will help you understand the steps required to get started.

In Montana, certification is a key requirement to work as a professional dog trainer.

This guide will walk you through the certification process and introduce you to some top training programs that can set you on the path to success.

Keep reading to discover how to become a certified dog trainer in Montana!

Key Responsibilities of a Dog Trainer in Montana

Dog trainers perform a variety of essential tasks, including:

• Teaching dogs basic obedience commands
• Enhancing socialization skills
• Evaluating the temperament and behavior of each dog
• Customizing training techniques to fit individual dogs
• Guiding dog owners on how to continue training at home

In addition to these primary duties, trainers may need to address specific needs based on the dog or its owner.

There are also opportunities to specialize in areas such as:

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

Even if you choose not to specialize, you’ll develop the ability to identify behavioral concerns and can refer clients to specialized professionals when necessary.

Steps to Becoming a Certified Dog Trainer in Montana

Becoming a certified dog trainer begins with gaining practical experience and mastering key dog training principles.

Here are some ways to build your expertise:

• Attending dog training workshops
• Enrolling in relevant courses
• Participating in industry seminars
• Watching educational videos on training techniques
• Volunteering at local animal shelters
• Shadowing experienced trainers during their sessions

Once you have a solid foundation of skills, you can pursue certification.

Joining professional organizations such as:

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

By doing so you can stay informed of industry standards and guide you on maintaining your certification.

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

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

Dog Trainer Certification Programs in Montana

Here are a few recognized programs that can help you achieve certification:

Animal Behavior College (ABC)

ABC offers an online course designed for aspiring dog trainers, covering multiple areas of specialization.

While the coursework is delivered online, students gain practical experience through partnerships with certified trainers nationwide.

The program takes around one year to complete, allowing you to start working as a trainer fairly quickly.

The tuition starts at approximately $2,700 if paid upfront, though payment plans may increase the total cost to $5,647.

The program fee covers:

• 29 instructional videos on dog training methods
• Practical experience under a certified trainer
• Pet CPR and First Aid certification (valid for two years)
• Close to 1,000 pages of study materials
• Lifetime certification as an ABC Dog Trainer

The Academy of Pet Careers (APC)

APC offers both online and in-person training programs, providing flexibility to suit your learning style.

Their headquarters is in St. Louis, MO, and they offer housing for out-of-state students attending in-person classes.

Graduating from APC provides you with nationally recognized credentials, helping you stand out in Montana’s dog training industry.

Whether you plan to start your own business or join an established team, APC prepares you with the skills needed to succeed.

The curriculum covers the latest dog training techniques, behavioral assessments, and industry trends.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with seasoned trainers dedicated to your professional development.

The program emphasizes real-world scenarios, preparing you to handle everything from puppy socialization to complex behavioral challenges.

Their state-of-the-art training facility offers the perfect environment to build confidence and refine your skills.

Dog Trainer Salaries in Montana

Salaries for dog trainers in Montana can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Level of experience
• Location
• Area of specialization
• Market demand

On average, dog trainers in Montana can expect to earn between $25,526 and $33,193 per year, with the median salary around $28,888.

To provide a better understanding of salary potential, here’s a breakdown of average salaries for dog trainers across various cities in Montana.

This information will help you gauge what you can expect to earn once you complete your training and enter the workforce.

Dog Trainer by State