How to Become a Dog Trainer in New York

If you have a passion for dogs or are thinking about switching careers, becoming a dog trainer in New York could be an excellent choice for you.

This rewarding field is relatively easy to enter, and this guide will walk you through the necessary steps to get started.

In New York, obtaining certification is a key requirement for those looking to become professional dog trainers.

In this article, we’ll explore the certification process and highlight some of the top training programs available in the state.

Key Responsibilities of a Dog Trainer in New York

Dog trainers take on a variety of important tasks, including:

• Teaching dogs basic obedience commands
• Helping dogs develop essential social skills
• Evaluating each dog’s temperament and behavior
• Customizing training methods to fit individual dogs’ needs
• Coaching dog owners on how to reinforce training at home

In some cases, your responsibilities may expand depending on the specific needs of the dogs and their owners.

As a dog trainer, you also have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas such as:

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

Even without specializing, dog trainers often identify behavioral problems and can refer clients to specialists when necessary.

How to Become a Certified Dog Trainer in New York

The first step in becoming a certified dog trainer is to gain practical experience and knowledge in dog training.

Here are several ways to start building your expertise:

• Attend workshops focused on dog training techniques
• Enroll in professional dog training courses
• Attend seminars on canine behavior and training strategies
• Watch educational videos on various training methods
• Volunteer at local animal shelters to gain hands-on experience
• Shadow experienced trainers and observe their sessions

Once you’ve developed your skills and feel confident, it’s time to pursue certification.

One of the most respected credentials to pursue is through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).

To qualify, you must accumulate 300 hours of training experience over the past three years and pass a comprehensive 180-question multiple-choice exam.

It’s also a good idea to become a member of professional organizations such as:

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

These associations can help keep you informed about the latest industry trends and guide you on when to renew your certification.

Dog Training Certification Programs in New York

If you’re looking to get certified, several programs can help you achieve your goals.

Animal Behavior College (ABC)

ABC offers online courses for aspiring dog trainers, covering various training styles and specialties.

While most of the learning is done online, the college partners with trainers nationwide to ensure you get the hands-on experience required for certification.

The program typically lasts one year, allowing you to quickly enter the workforce after graduation.

Tuition is about $2,700 if paid in full, with a $75 application fee included.

Opting for a payment plan may increase the total tuition to $5,647.

The tuition covers the following:

• 29 instructional videos on dog training techniques
• Nearly 1,000 pages of study material
• Hands-on experience with a professional dog trainer
• Certification in Pet CPR and First Aid (valid for two years)
• Lifetime certification as an ABC Dog Trainer

Karen Pryor Academy

The Karen Pryor Academy offers a range of training programs, including:

• Dog Trainer Professional
• Dog Trainer Comprehensive
• Dog Trainer Foundations
• Dog Trainer Foundations Immersion
• Therapy Dog Team Training
• Click to Calm for Instructors

Tuition for these programs is around $5,600, with courses delivered online.

The academy is known for its force-free training approach, which sets it apart from other schools.

Upon completion, graduates earn the title of KPA Certified Training Partner.

A unique aspect of the Karen Pryor Academy is that the skills learned can be applied to training other animals, not just dogs.

Salary Expectations for Dog Trainers in New York

Pursuing a career as a certified dog trainer in New York is both rewarding and impactful, allowing you to enhance the lives of dogs and their owners.

Salaries for dog trainers in New York can vary based on several factors, such as:

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

On average, dog trainers in New York earn between $29,134 and $37,884 per year, with the median salary around $32,970.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of average salaries for dog trainers across different cities in New York to help you better understand potential earnings.

Regional Salary in New York

Dog Trainer by State