How to Become a Dog Trainer in Ohio

If you’ve always had a love for dogs or are considering a career change, becoming a dog trainer in Ohio could be an excellent option for you.

It’s a profession that’s relatively easy to get into, and this guide will help you navigate the process.

In Ohio, having certifications allows you to work professionally as a dog trainer and also show your dedication to this occupation.

So, I’ll explain the steps to achieve certification, as well as highlight some great training programs available in the state.

Duties of a Dog Trainer in Ohio

Dog trainers in Ohio take on a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Teaching dogs basic obedience commands
• Helping dogs improve their social skills
• Evaluating each dog’s behavior and temperament
• Customizing training techniques to meet individual dogs’ needs
• Guiding owners on how to reinforce training at home

Additional duties may come up depending on the specific needs of the dog and their owner.

Many dog trainers also choose to specialize in areas like:

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

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

Steps to Getting Certified as a Dog Trainer in Ohio

To become a certified dog trainer, the first step is to gain hands-on experience and build a solid understanding of dog training.

You can do this through many methods:

• Attending dog training workshops
• Enrolling in dog training classes
• Joining seminars on canine behavior
• Watching training videos to learn different techniques
• Volunteering at animal shelters
• Observing and networking with experienced dog trainers

Once you’ve gained enough experience and feel confident in your abilities, it’s time to pursue certification.

One of the best certifications to have is provided by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).

There are a few prerequisites to obtaining it:

• Have completed at least 300 hours of dog training in the last three years
• Pass a test with 180 questions that have multiple correct answers

Many dog trainers become members of associations such as the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) or The American Kennel Club (AKC).

Doing so keeps them updated on the latest industry trends and ensures they maintain their certification.

Dog Training Certification Programs in Ohio

Below are a couple of schools where you can obtain dog training certification in Ohio.

Animal Behavior College (ABC)

This college offers online courses for individuals aspiring to become dog trainers.

Much of the coursework is done online.

Yet students also receive hands-on experience by working with certified trainers across the country.

The duration of the program is about a year, allowing graduates to start their careers quickly.

The tuition fee is approximately $2,700 if paid upfront, and a $75 application fee included.

If you opt for a payment plan, tuition can rise to $5,647.

You’ll have access to:

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

National K-9 School for Dog Trainers

This school prepares graduates to immediately start full-time or part-time work as dog trainers upon completing the course.

One of the programs is the four-week Professional Obedience/Behavior Course.

It focuses on:

• Basic on-leash obedience training,
• Advanced off-leash obedience,
• Behavior modification and counseling,
• Puppy development,
• Confidence-building exercises,
• Customer relations with dog owners.

Additionally, students are guided through important aspects of running a successful small business.

The course also covers essential dog care and kennel management techniques, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Graduates from the National K-9 Professional Obedience/Behavior Course can continue their education through advanced workshops and seminars.

The ongoing education offerings are periodically updated, and schedules are posted on the school’s website.

There are additional courses that cover specialized fields such as:

• Service dog training,
• Scent detection,
• Tracking,
• Personal protection,
• Therapy dog training

These professional development opportunities enable graduates to broaden their skills and grow their businesses.

The National K-9 School for Dog Trainers is regulated and approved by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools.

Graduates are awarded the title Certified Professional Trainer (CPT), allowing them to use this designation after their name.

Salary Expectations for Dog Trainers in Ohio

The salary for dog trainers in Ohio varies depending on several factors, such as:

• Experience
• Location
• Specialization
• Demand for services

In Ohio, dog trainers typically earn between $26,729 and $34,756 annually, with the average salary hovering around $30,249 per year.

For a more detailed look, I’ve prepared a table showing the average salaries for dog trainers across different cities.

Regional Salary in Ohio

Dog Trainer by State