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If you are considering a new career direction, becoming a dog trainer in South Dakota could be a good idea.
With a straightforward entry process, this guide will walk you through the essentials for beginning your journey.
Obtaining certification is a vital step in establishing yourself as a professional dog trainer in South Dakota.
Below, we’ll outline the certification process and highlight some of the top training programs available in the state.
Earn your accredited, affordable Dog Training Certificate online with Penn Foster!
Article Table of Contents
Key Responsibilities of a Dog Trainer
As a certified dog trainer in South Dakota, you’ll handle a variety of tasks.
Some of the duties are:
- Teaching basic obedience commands
- Improving socialization skills among dogs
- Assessing dogs’ temperaments and behaviors
- Customizing training methods to meet individual needs
- Providing pet owners with guidance on maintaining training at home
Depending on the needs of each client, trainers may also choose to specialize in specific areas, including:
- Agility training
- Service dog preparation
- Behavioral modification for issues like anxiety or aggression
Even if you do not choose a particular focus, having the expertise to identify behavioral issues and refer clients to specialists can add significant value to your services.
Practical Experience and Certification Process
Hands-on experience is essential for becoming a certified dog trainer.
Building your skills can involve several paths, such as:
- Attending workshops dedicated to dog training techniques
- Enrolling in formal classes focused on canine behavior
- Joining seminars on dog behavior and training methods
- Watching instructional videos
- Volunteering at local animal shelters
- Observing experienced trainers at work
Once you’ve gained practical experience, pursuing certification is the next step.
Professional organizations like the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and the American Kennel Club (AKC) keep members up-to-date on trends, certifications, and the latest industry practices.
The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) offers one of the most reputable certifications.
To qualify, candidates must complete 300 hours of dog training within the past three years and pass a comprehensive 180-question exam.
Dog Training Programs in South Dakota
Several top institutions offer training programs for future dog trainers, including:
Animal Behavior College 
ABC’s program combines online learning with in-person training in South Dakota.
The program usually takes around a year to complete.
Tuition costs roughly $2,700 if paid upfront, with an additional $75 application fee.
Payment plans are available, which may increase total tuition to around $5,647.
The curriculum includes:
- 29 instructional videos on dog training
- Over 1,000 pages of educational materials
- Practical experience alongside certified trainers
- Pet CPR and First Aid certification (valid for two years)
- Lifetime ABC Dog Trainer certification
The program emphasizes learning through hands-on experience.
With a curriculum that incorporates practical training scenarios, you’ll be prepared to address everything from puppy socialization to complex behavioral issues.
By engaging in real-life training situations, you’ll develop the skills and confidence needed to excel as a professional dog trainer.
Train in State-of-the-Art Facilities
The facilities are designed to emulate real-world training environments, offering an ideal setting to refine your techniques and build your confidence.
Equipped with the latest training tools and technology, the facility ensures that you’re well-prepared to transition smoothly into the professional dog training world.
CATCH Canine Trainers Academy 
This academy offers a well-rounded curriculum for aspiring dog trainers, providing several structured courses:
- Core Skills – Pro Dog Trainer
- Basics Pro – Dog Training & Behavior
- Master Class Certification, CCDT
In addition to these courses, students can join various workshops and seminars to broaden their skills.
For each course completed, students will receive a certificate, which can be a great asset in building a professional profile.
When enrolling in any course, students also gain access to valuable resources, including:
- Print and Video Study Materials with free US shipping,
- This is available in both print and electronic formats.
- Flexible scheduling with ET evenings and Saturdays.
- Access to the Student Center online,
Through the online center, students can connect with peers and instructors, ask questions, and find additional support.
These comprehensive resources make it easy for students to engage in their studies and work toward a professional dog training certification with confidence.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| CATCH Canine Trainers Academy | online classes |
| Animal Behavior College | online classes |
Earn your accredited, affordable Dog Training Certificate online with Penn Foster!
Salary Expectations for Dog Trainers in South Dakota
The average salary for dog trainers in South Dakota varies based on factors like:
- Experience,
- Location,
- Specialization,
- Demand
Typically, dog trainers in the state earn between $24,569 and $31,949 per year, with a median salary of around $27,805.
For additional insight, you’ll find a breakdown of average salaries across various cities in South Dakota below.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Bullhead | $30,279 |
| Herreid | $30,279 |
| McIntosh | $30,279 |
| Pierpont | $29,228 |
| Roslyn | $29,228 |
| Frederick | $29,228 |
| Claremont | $29,228 |
| Milbank | $29,011 |
| Lodgepole | $28,671 |
| Summit | $28,424 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What roles does a dog training in South Dakota take on?
A dog trainer program can indeed open doors to various related jobs.
Such a program offers valuable skills needed across the pet care industry and potentially helps you increase your income.
Some key career paths include:
- Dog Foster Parents:
- Using training skills to prepare foster dogs for adoption by teaching them essential behaviors.
- Doggie Daycare Providers:
- Managing groups of dogs with confidence in behavior management and positive reinforcement.
- Pet Sitters:
- Offering enhanced services by addressing the behavioral needs of dogs in your care.
- Dog Walkers:
- Handling and managing various dog personalities on walks with professional techniques.
- Rescue and Shelter Animal Workers:
- Improving adoptability by training shelter dogs, and helping them learn obedience and social skills.
A well-rounded dog trainer program helps prepare you for these roles, building a diverse skill set for working with dogs in various environments.
Are there only dog training courses online in South Dakota?
In the U.S., most dog training classes are conveniently offered online.
For those who prefer hands-on learning, there are also many in-person courses and workshops where you can take your dog along.
These provide practical, real-world experience for your pet.
Whether online or in-person, the flexibility of these programs offers options for every type of learner, helping to build essential skills in a way that suits your lifestyle and goals.
Are there any special skills I need as a dog trainer in South Dakota?
Here are some essential skills that successful dog trainers cultivate:
- Patience
- Attention to Detail
- Communication Skills
- Passion for Dogs
- Commitment to Learning
- Responsibility
These skills not only define successful dog trainers but also align with many other roles involving animals or customer service, showing the versatility of dog training experience.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Dog Trainer
Dog Trainer by State