How To Become An Animal Trainer

Step 1: Decide What Type of Animal to Train

Animals Trainers typically specialize in training specific species. For example, an Animal Trainer may specialize in training dogs, dolphins, horses, cats, birds, circus animals, or marine life.

The requirements for becoming an Animal Trainer often depend on the species and industry. Becoming a trainer at a marine park may require more education compared to training dogs for local clients.

Step 2: Increase Your Comfort Level with Animals

Aspiring Animal Trainers can start working with animals in high school or earlier to increase their comfort level around dogs and other species.

Students who are interested in becoming Dog Trainers may consider training their own dog. Students that want to work with horses may consider volunteering at a stable or take riding lessons. Local veterinary hospitals and clinics may also accept student volunteers.

Step 3: Earn an Associate’s Degree

Dog training schools, animal shelters, and horse farms may not require a college degree for entry-level Animal Training jobs. However, some employers may prefer to hire individuals with an Associate’s degree when multiple individuals apply for the same position.

Earning an Associate’s degree also helps Animal Trainers develop the skills and knowledge needed for this job. Students can explore animal behavior, anatomy, and physiology.

Most universities and colleges do not offer degrees in Animal Training. Common fields of study include Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, and Zoology.

Animal Behavior Science is a common choice as it explores the biology and psychology of animals. Students learn how animals behave in their natural habitats and explore their physiological development and neurochemistry. The information obtained with this degree helps Trainers understand how animals learn, which is useful for developing effective training methods.

Step 4: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

A Bachelor’s degree may be necessary for Animal Trainers who work with marine animals or exotic animals. For example, aquariums and marine parks often require Dolphin Trainers to hold a Bachelor’s degree. Circuses and companies that supply trained animals for movie and television production may also require a Bachelor’s degree.

As with an Associate’s degree, common fields of study for a Bachelor’s degree include Animal Science and related majors.

Step 5: Look for Entry-Level Jobs at Relevant Facilities

After finishing school, aspiring Animal Trainers should begin looking for entry-level jobs at relevant facilities. An Animal Trainer who plans on training dogs may look for work at animal shelters or dog training schools. Animal Trainers who want to work with dolphins should look for jobs at marine parks.

Inexperienced Animal Trainers may not immediately find work as a Trainer. Animal Trainers often start in low-level jobs that involve routine tasks, such as feeding or caring for animals.

Along with entry-level work, aspiring Animal Trainers may look for apprenticeship opportunities. Dog training schools and the American Human Society (AHS) often offer apprenticeships that last six months to a year.

Step 6: Obtain Professional Certification in Your Field

Some types of Animal Training may require certification or license. For example, individuals who work with marine mammals may need to obtain SCUBA certification.

Animal Trainers who work with dogs do not need certification. However, earning certification may be required by some employers and leads to professional development. The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) are the two largest organizations dedicated to dog training in North America.

There is no centralized organization for horse training. Certifications are available through independent organizations and may be necessary for some horse training jobs.

Step 7: Seek Career Advancement

After gaining an entry-level job or completing an apprenticeship, aspiring Animal Trainers should find it easier to gain employment as full-time trainers. For example, an apprenticeship may automatically lead to an Animal Trainer position. Entry-level jobs allow aspiring Trainers to get their foot in the door and work their way up to Animal Trainer.

Step 8: Join a Professional Organization

Animal Trainers often join professional organizations to keep track of developments in their field. Joining an organization also provides access to job resources, networking opportunities, seminars, and workshops.

Animal Trainers who work with marine mammals may join the Marine Animals Trainers’ Association. The APDT offers memberships for Dog Trainers.