How to Become a Dog Trainer in North Dakota

If you’re passionate about working with dogs or considering a career change, becoming a dog trainer in North Dakota could be an excellent opportunity.

This rewarding profession allows you to help both dogs and their owners while offering flexibility and fulfillment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps to begin your journey toward certification and success as a dog trainer.

Certification Requirements for Dog Trainers in North Dakota

In North Dakota, certification is crucial for anyone looking to build a career as a professional dog trainer.

Earning certification not only boosts your credibility but also ensures you meet industry standards.

This guide will walk you through the certification process and introduce you to the top training programs to help you get started.

Why Become a Dog Trainer in North Dakota?

Dog trainers play a crucial role in shaping dog behavior and fostering strong relationships between pets and their owners.

As a dog trainer in North Dakota, your primary duties may include:

• Teaching basic obedience commands
• Improving dogs’ social behavior with other animals and people
• Assessing each dog’s temperament and behavior
• Customizing training methods for individual dogs
• Coaching dog owners to reinforce positive behaviors at home

Beyond these responsibilities, trainers may address behavioral issues such as aggression or anxiety based on the dog’s needs or the owner’s concerns.

You can also choose to specialize in areas like:

• Agility training
• Service dog training
• Behavior modification

Even without specializing, your training will prepare you to recognize behavioral challenges and, when necessary, refer clients to specialists for further assistance.

Steps to Becoming a Certified Dog Trainer in North Dakota

To start your career as a dog trainer, gaining hands-on experience and a deep understanding of dog behavior is essential.

Here are steps you can take to build your knowledge and skills:

• Attend dog training workshops
• Enroll in professional dog training courses
• Participate in industry seminars
• Watch educational videos on training techniques
• Volunteer at local animal shelters to gain practical experience
• Shadow experienced trainers to learn proven methods

Pursuing certification is the next key step once you’ve built a solid foundation.

It’s recommended to join professional organizations, such as:

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

These organizations will help you stay updated on industry standards and maintain your credentials.

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

To qualify, you must complete 300 hours of hands-on experience within three years and pass a comprehensive 180-question test.

Dog Trainer Certification Programs in North Dakota

North Dakota State University

This university offers an extension program to help you better understand animal behavior and training.

The program is offered through workshops, various events, and courses.

Some of these are available for free or online, making it easier for those interested, to attend.

The topics related directly to animals are seen below:

• Animal Science
• Equine Science
• Veterinary Technology

These topics are available with 2 academic advisors and are part of undergraduate programs, as majors.

Since you’ll attend an undergraduate program, you’ll be earning a B.S. in Animal Science.

Prairie Dog Training Academy

This academy offers classes focused on obedience and not aggression.

Regardless of the class you want or need to attend, you must pay for that class in advance and in full.

If you change your mind after paying, you must participate because you can’t transfer the spot to someone else.

There are some requirements to complete before enrolling:

• Proof of vaccinations
• Training Form
• Evaluation

Dog Trainer Salary Expectations in North Dakota

Salaries for dog trainers in North Dakota can vary depending on several factors, such as:

• Your level of experience
• Geographic location
• Area of specialization
• Market demand

On average, dog trainers in North Dakota can expect to earn between $27,057 and $35,183 annually, with a median salary of around $30,620.

Below, there’s a breakdown of average dog trainer salaries across different cities in North Dakota.

Understanding these figures can help you gauge what you might earn as you build your career as a certified dog trainer in this state.

Dog Trainer by State