If you're doing research into how to become a dog trainer in Australia, the likelihood is that you'll already know that it's both a rewarding and well-paid role. On average, people in this line of work earn in the region of $50k-$70k, which is not to be sniffed at. That said, the majority of people pursuing this career path are doing so because of their love for animals.
What Skills Do You Need To Be An Animal Trainer?
If you want to succeed in the dog training world, you'll need specific personal attributes, including a clear speaking voice. Also required are the following:
- Good listening skills
- Critical thinking abilities
- Good problem-solving aptitude
- Determination
- Compassion
- Stamina
- Patience
Officially speaking, there are 339 dog breeds in existence globally, meaning that you'll also need to have a keen understanding of the traits of each one. Some breeds will require a different approach - and herein lies the rewarding challenge you'll face each day.
What Are The Main Duties Of Dog Trainers?
Before deciding to learn how to become a dog trainer, it's important that you know exactly what's involved. Essentially, there are several exciting duties you'll take care of during your working day. They include:
- Running puppy sociability classes - teaching pups how to interact with people and other dogs through gentle play and games
- Instructing owners on how to examine, groom, and handle their dogs
- Teaching basic/advanced obedience techniques, e.g., stay, sit, etc.
Your primary role is to get dogs to behave appropriately in a social environment. It’s about teaching owners how to communicate with their dogs and get their obedience.
What Do I Need To Be Become A Dog Trainer?
To pursue a career as a dog trainer, practical experience and relevant education are key. Many trainers opt to complete hands-on training courses, such as those offered through TAFE, which provide a comprehensive understanding of dog behaviour and a range of training methods. Whether you’re aiming to work with pets, service animals, or in obedience training, gaining experience and knowledge in canine psychology and behaviour will be crucial to your success in the field.
Combining distance and face-to-face learning, these courses are designed to give you everything you need to start applying for jobs. Learning how to become a dog trainer in Australia is an ongoing process, as there’s much to learn along the way.
If you want to prepare yourself for TAFE learning or you simply want to expand your knowledge base, there are also short courses like our Dog Grooming, Pet Care & Dog Training Course. Delivered entirely online and able to be consumed via a smartphone, these types of micro-credentials can do much to improve both your skills and employability.
Is There A Demand For Dog Trainers In Australia?
The growing number of pets being kept in Australia should give you some idea of whether your services will be in demand. Look on recruitment sites like Careers By OCA, and hundreds of positions are available. At last count, there were 6.3 million pets in Australia, which will only rise.
The truth is that once you learn how to become a dog trainer, the skills you gain will make you very employable. At a time when most people's jobs seem a little less secure than they used to, that's a precious commodity indeed and something to cherish.
Learn How to Become a Dog Trainer With OCA Online Training
If you're interested in joining the dog training field, you can supplement your learning throughout your career with CPD-Endorsed, video-based courses from OCA. Allowing you to build your professional knowledge base conveniently and mentally stimulatingly, our systems are industry-led, meaning they're packed with helpful content applicable in the real world.
We offer an immersive learning experience that provides as much learning support as you need. As well as your mentor, you’ll also get 24/7 tutorial assistance for those moments when things don't quite make sense to you. To closely examine what life is like as an OCA student, watch our Student Study Demo.
Dog training is just one small part of our training, with our library spanning more than 20 professional industries. To see our entire library for yourself, visit us today at www.onlinecoursessaustralia.edu.au where you’ll also discover our range of flexible payment options that make our cheap courses even more affordable.
Alternatively, if you’d like to speak to our friendly team about anything before enrolment, you can do so by calling 1300 611 404. They’re ready and waiting to give you the answers you need. To get in touch by email, drop us a line at [email protected], and we’ll get back to you without delay.
