Does your dream job include pets?
If yes, then you should consider some veterinary-related profession.
Becoming a professional dog trainer might be the easiest option if you take into consideration being a veterinary doctor or nurse.
Dog trainers work with animals constantly, and the main goal is fixing some behavioral issues.
If you live in Colorado and wish to become a dog trainer, stay with us!
We have some super useful information for you!
Table of Contents
How to Become a Dog Trainer in Colorado?
Working as a dog trainer can be really challenging.
But we provided you with some steps that will make this process easier.
Step 1: Consider the risks
People who work with animals are often very stressed.
Yes, animals, especially dogs, can relieve our stress and anxiety.
But this job has a huge responsibility because the customers will rely on your words.
Loving animals is not enough to become a successful dog trainer.
So, before you step into this job, consider all possible risks.
Step 2: Gain experience
Practice, practice, and practice!
You can practice with your own dog in the beginning, but the best way to test your own skills is to start practicing with another dog.
Try to spend a lot of time during this step, and you will learn many skills.
Step 3: Consider education
There are many schools and academies that offer courses for dog trainers.
Do your research and choose some courses.
This will help you in improving your skills, but it will also help you in the job search process.
Step 4: Join a professional organization
You can join the Association of Professional Dog Trainers.
This will help you build a network of professionals from your field.
Professional organizations are also helpful in keeping you up to date with the latest trends in the dog training industry.
Step 5: Consider Certification
Besides joining a professional organization, you can also think about certifying.
The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers offers such a certification.
You just need to complete a minimum of 300 hours of experience in dog training and an exam.
The goal of every profession is never to stop learning.
Dog Training Schools in Colorado
Fetch Masters
This school is great for those who aspire to become professionals with great skills. 
You will learn a lot about positive dog training, which is the base of the industry in the United States.
You will have immersive hands-on elements that will help you effectively adapt and communicate with dogs and clients.
At the end of this course, you will be knowledgeable, skilled, and hopefully ready to start a career in the dog training industry.
Individual Courses cost $175, while Certification Program Tuition costs $500.
Colorado Dog Trainer Certification School
The Dog Trainer College is an international certification school that will help you become a dog trainer.
There are a few dog training programs and courses, including:
- Obedience and Behavior course
- Master Trainer course
- K9 Instructor course
- Service Dog Trainer course
- Protection Dog Trainer course
- Cadaver Detection course
- Scent Detection course
Each course targets different abilities, and the final choice depends on your preferences.
The prices of the courses start from $3900 and go up to $15,900 depending on the chosen course.
Catch Canine Trainers Academy
The benefit of this course is that you can take the course at your own pace. 
This program is available statewide, and you can get a professional mentor trainer from your state.
The program is nationally acclaimed, and you can find a mentor in any city.
Moreover, you will learn about dog training from professional and passionate dog lovers.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Fetch Masters | FetchMasters, LLC 1380 South Indianfield Street Bennett, CO 80102 |
| Colorado Dog Trainer Certification School | 717 Beaver Hollow Rd. Spencer, IN 47460 |
| Catch Canine Trainers Academy | 24 Newark Pompton Turnpike Suite 206 Little Falls, NJ |
Salary
In Colorado, you can earn an average of $35,163 as a dog trainer.
You can earn from $31,937 to $38,489.
Your salary will depend on the city where you work, your company, and whether you work as a freelancer or for someone.
| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Denver | $35,372 |
| Colorado Springs | $34,641 |
| Aurora | $35,349 |
| Fort Collins | $34,137 |
| Arvada | $35,198 |
| Pueblo | $32,661 |
| Westminster | $35,198 |
| Boulder | $35,689 |
| Thornton | $35,372 |
| Greeley | $34,212 |
Regional Salary in Colorado
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO | 90 | $43,430 | $20.88 | $62,920 | $35,710 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dog trainers in Denver earn a lot?
Yes, dog trainers in Denver earn a lot.
Denver is in the 6th place on the list that includes the highest-paying cities in Colorado.
The average salary for dog trainers in Colorado is $35,372.
Is it hard being a dog trainer in Colorado?
Yes, this job can be very challenging because you will work with dog owners and dogs at the same time.
We advise you to balance your work duties and your social life to avoid stress.
What qualifications do dog trainers in Colorado need?
You don’t need any formal qualifications to work as a dog trainer.
However, some companies require certification.
How to Become a Dog Trainer by State