Did you always have a love for animals and thought that a job related to animals was the best job in the whole world?
If the answer is yes, you should probably consider working as a dog trainer.
Arkansas offers many job opportunities, and becoming a dog trainer is one of the many options.
Stay with us, and we will teach you everything that you need to become a dog trainer in Arkansas!
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How to Become a Dog Trainer in Arkansas?
In the United States, getting a dog trainer certification is not necessary, but you should follow a few simple steps to build a career in this field.
Step 1: Determine your passion and get experience
Working with animals can be tough for many people.
It is a challenge even for professionals.
You need to have a great approach to animals in order to become successful.
If you are certain about your passion, then you should gain more experience.
We advise you to learn more about animal behavior before you start.
It is a great idea to connect with animal behaviorists to learn more about behavior.
Step 2: Work on your skills
Working with animals is not just cuddles and cute little animals.
It requires great determination, patience, and verbal and non-verbal communication.
You should work constantly with animals to improve your skills.
In the beginning, you will struggle a lot, but after a while, you will find your own technique that fits the best.
Step 3: Start applying
If you feel ready, then you should prepare your resume and start applying.
Look for businesses that look for beginners.
This will leave you some space to learn something more and progress while working.
Large companies usually look for certified dog trainers.
Step 4: Become a pro
If your ambitions are high, then your education has to be high as well.
Becoming certified in dog training is not an impossible mission; in fact, it is very straightforward.
You must complete a certain number of hours of dog training and pass a written exam to qualify for certification.
You can get a certificate from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).
Step 5: Connect with professionals and have extra courage
Networking with people from the same field will help you progress a lot.
This will keep you up to date with everything that is current in the job.
And remember, working as a dog trainer is not just working for some training school, veterinary institution, or big company.
Becoming a dog trainer also means that you can start your own training school for dogs.
So, have some extra courage, but take baby steps and don’t rush.
Dog Training Schools in Arkansas
Here are some of the best schools in Arkansas to become a dog trainer.
TWC (Training Without Conflict)
This training school accepts only professional dog trainers with existing training businesses.
During this course, you will enhance your existing skills and accelerate in speed.
Even if you don’t have your own business, you can contact this school to train
with your own dog.
This certified program costs $10,000 for a professional dog trainer, while those who practice with their own dogs will pay $8,000.
The course consists of 18 modules that are released every Monday and Thursday during a period of 9 weeks.
You also need to pass a written test at the end of the courses (you have 3 opportunities).
Penn Foster
At Penn Foster, you can complete the Dog Obedience Trainer Program in 7 months.
The benefit is that you can learn online at the pace that you choose.
This academy offers affordable tuition with customized payment plans. 
This is a great first step if you decide to start a career as a dog trainer.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| TWC (Training Without Conflict) | / |
| Penn Foster | 14300 N Northsight Blvd., Suite 125 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 USA |
Salary
The average salary for dog trainers in Arkansas is $31,718.
You can earn as little as $28,807 or as much as $34,717 in Arkansas.
Your salary can significantly vary based on your city, skills, and previous experience.
| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Little Rock | $32,139 |
| Fort Smith | $30,402 |
| North Little Rock | $32,139 |
| Fayetteville | $31,708 |
| Jonesboro | $32,010 |
| Pine Bluff | $31,150 |
| Springdale | $31,708 |
| Conway | $31,829 |
| Rogers | $31,520 |
| Hot Springs | $31,826 |
Regional Salary in Arkansas
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hot Springs, AR | 120 | $49,290 | $23.7 | $64,120 | $22,880 |
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR | 30 | $43,390 | $20.86 | $66,260 | $26,920 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dog trainer certification in the USA?
The CCPDT is the best available certification in the USA.
However, you can work as a dog trainer even without the certification.
Can I find a work-life balance while working as a dog trainer in Arkansas?
With the proper time management and skills, you can definitely find a work-life balance.
However, in the beginning, it will be very difficult to manage.
Is an animal behavior degree necessary for dog trainers?
No, the degree is not necessary.
However, it would be great if you had some knowledge of animal behavior before you start working this job.
How to Become a Dog Trainer by State