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If you have a love for dogs or are considering a new career, becoming a dog trainer in Pennsylvania could be a great path to explore.
This guide will walk you through the steps to help you get started.
In Pennsylvania, professional dog trainers are generally required to earn certification.
In this article, we’ll discuss the certification process and highlight some of the top training programs in the state.
Earn your accredited, affordable Dog Training Certificate online with Penn Foster!
Article Table of Contents
Responsibilities of a Dog Trainer in Pennsylvania
As a dog trainer in Pennsylvania, you will have several key duties, like:
- Teaching dogs essential obedience commands
- Helping dogs improve their social behavior
- Assessing each dog’s temperament and behavioral patterns
- Tailoring training techniques to fit the needs of individual dogs
- Providing owners with advice on reinforcing training at home
Your responsibilities may expand based on the unique requirements of each dog and their owner.
Some trainers may also choose to focus on specialized areas, including:
- Agility training
- Service dog training
- Behavior modification for:
- Anxiety
- Aggression
Even without a specialization, dog trainers are skilled at identifying behavioral issues and can refer clients to specialists when necessary.
Steps to Becoming a Certified Dog Trainer in Pennsylvania
Gaining some experience is important for those who want to become certified.
Feeling ready and confident in your skills, obtaining a certification comes next.
The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers issues the best credential you can obtain.
To qualify, you will need to complete at least 300 hours of training over the past three years and pass a comprehensive test with 180 questions.
Let’s now learn more about how you can become experienced.
You can start building your expertise through several methods, including:
- Attending dog training workshops
- Enrolling in formal training classes
- Participating in seminars on canine behavior
- Watching instructional videos to learn various training techniques
- Volunteering at animal shelters
- Networking with experienced trainers and observing their work
Joining professional associations such as the Association of Professional Dog Trainers or the American Kennel Club can help keep you informed about industry trends and certification updates.
Dog Training Certification Programs in Pennsylvania
If you’re looking for training programs in Pennsylvania, here are two highly regarded options:
Animal Behavior College (ABC) 
ABC offers online courses for aspiring dog trainers, so they’re available everywhere across the country.
While most of the coursework is done online, students also receive practical experience working with certified trainers across Pennsylvania.
Students should prepare to stay in the course for almost a year.
To become a student, you will have to pay the tuition upfront.
The sum is $2,700 and it is accompanied by the application fee of $75.
The tuition is not that high but some individuals can’t afford it upfront.
Therefore, paying plans are available, and the downside is that you’ll end up paying $5,647.
Tuition covers the following:
- 29 instructional videos on dog training
- Nearly 1,000 pages of study materials
- 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 
The National K-9 School offers a comprehensive program that equips students with the practical knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in dog training, whether full-time or part-time.
The Professional Obedience and Behavior Course lasts for 4 weeks.
The program covers:
- On-leash and off-leash obedience training
- Behavior modification and counseling
- Puppy development
- Confidence-building exercises
- Customer relations and educating dog owners
- Small business management
- Dog care and kennel operations
Graduates can also further their education through advanced workshops and seminars that cover:
- Service dog training,
- Scent detection,
- Tracking,
- Therapy dog training.
These additional learning opportunities help trainers expand their skills and grow their businesses.
Course schedules are regularly updated on the school’s website.
The Pennsylvania State Board of Career Colleges and Schools regulates and approved the National K-9 School for Dog Trainers.
Upon graduation, students earn the designation Certified Professional Trainer (CPT), which they can use professionally.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Animal Behavior College (ABC) | online |
| National K-9 School for Dog Trainers | online |
Earn your accredited, affordable Dog Training Certificate online with Penn Foster!
Salary Expectations for Dog Trainers in Pennsylvania
The salary for dog trainers in Pennsylvania can vary depending on factors such as:
- Experience level
- Geographic location
- Specialization
- Market demand for services
Dog trainers in Pennsylvania typically earn between $27,275 and $35,467 per year, with the average salary being around $30,867 a year.
For a more detailed breakdown of salaries in different cities across the state, see the table below.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Matamoras | $35,042 |
| Levittown | $33,589 |
| Bensalem | $33,558 |
| Warminster | $33,527 |
| Buckingham | $33,496 |
| Carversville | $33,465 |
| Erwinna | $33,249 |
| Pipersville | $33,156 |
| Point Pleasant | $33,094 |
| Warrington | $33,001 |
Regional Salary in Pennsylvania
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ | 40 | $41,240 | $19.83 | $52,880 | $29,400 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | 390 | $44,960 | $21.61 | $55,750 | $31,810 |
| Pittsburgh, PA | 60 | $41,390 | $19.9 | $51,260 | $29,950 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best reasons to work as a dog trainer in Pennsylvania?
Absolutely!
A career in dog training can be incredibly rewarding and flexible.
Dog trainers enjoy setting their schedules, which is a huge plus for balancing other jobs, hobbies, or personal time.
It’s a profession that accommodates various work-life preferences, whether you want to work full-time, part-time, or seasonally.
In terms of earnings, experienced trainers with specialized skills can indeed earn up to $100 per hour, especially when offering one-on-one sessions or advanced training services.
The growing demand for pet care and training means trainers have the chance to build a solid client base and enjoy a fulfilling career doing something they love.
Can I offer additional services to clients while working as a dog trainer in Pennsylvania?
Sure!
By adding services like grooming, boarding, or even pet-sitting, dog trainers can create a more comprehensive pet care business that attracts a broader clientele.
Offering these additional services not only boosts income but also strengthens client relationships, as pet owners appreciate having all their needs met in one place.
Trainers can also consider packages for puppy training, socialization sessions, or behavior modification, which further diversify offerings.
Do I need a certification to work as a dog trainer in Pennsylvania?
That’s correct!
While certification isn’t strictly required to start working as a dog trainer, it can make a significant difference, especially when looking to work with reputable institutions or high-profile clients.
Certification from recognized organizations like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) or the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) provides a seal of professionalism and commitment to industry standards.
It signals to clients and employers that a trainer has a strong foundation in canine behavior, training ethics, and safety practices, which can be reassuring to pet owners and boost one’s business opportunities.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Dog Trainer
Dog Trainer by State