The dog training profession consists of learning animal behavior and psychology and it is not as easy as it seems, but it is a very rewarding profession.
There is an expected employment growth of up to 31% by 2031, so if you consider this profession – it is a great choice.
If you are thinking about building a career in this field in Missouri, you’ve come to the right place!
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How to Become a Dog Trainer in Missouri?
Learning dog behavior and training is not as easy as it seems.
You will face different dog breeds and traits and you will need to learn how to handle all of them.
Therefore, we will provide you with some basic steps for you to get started!
Step 1: Learn about canine psychology and behavior
Sometimes, pets tell us a lot with their behavior, posture, or barking, but we need to find a way to understand them.
You can do this by reading lots of books and watching professional dog training books.
Use your knowledge to practice with your dog and maybe record some video – we will tell you later why!
Step 2: Start practicing
You must try!
Theoretical knowledge without any practical knowledge is nothing.
Try to train your dog in the beginning, and the best thing is that you don’t need some special course to do this.
Just try the tricks that you saw online and see if it will work for you and your dog.
You can even record your sessions to check your progress which will encourage you even more to continue on.
Step 3: Consider education or certification
There are many schools in Missouri that offer dog training classes.
Check their programs and see if they suit your needs.
You can even become a pro by getting a certificate from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.
Step 4: Start applying and get your first job
The process of applying can be boring and frustrating and we get it, but you shouldn’t give up.
In the beginning, we even advise you to get some volunteering position which will teach you a lot.
We advised you to record your training sessions in the beginning and there is a huge reason for it.
Some employers might ask for a video proof of your training skills.
If you are skilled enough and you have a good video, we encourage you to show it.
Step 5: Think about starting your own business
The first recommendation is that you shouldn’t rush into this.
Get experienced enough, and then think about building your own business.
You need to be very skilled to become successful by being self-employed.
Advertise your training skills through YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X and it will help you land your first client.
However, you might even consider getting a career coach to help you with the whole process of becoming self-employed.
Dog Training Schools in Missouri
Formal education is unnecessary in Missouri, but we encourage you to check out some of the offered classes.
Working with other colleagues is good for everyone!
The Academy of Pet Careers
This academy offers online and in-person programs.
The online program will give you the opportunity to learn on your own schedule and you will have access to the materials after graduation.
It is more affordable and the instructors will do everything to make your classes more fun.
Those who pay upfront can receive a 20% discount, or you can get a TFC loan and pay $230 every month for a whole year.
The program lasts 12 months or 10 hours per week. 
The regular price for the course is $5,500.
With the other course, you will get live and customized classes and you will also learn at your own pace.
These classes are more fun and you will surround yourself with other dog lovers such as yourself.
CATCH Canine Trainers Academy
The CATCH Academy has classes for beginners, intermediates, and pros.
They are online and can cost as little as $54.
This means that for a low price, you can have a course that you can listen to whenever and wherever!
They are also certified and you can finish the course in 7 months.
After you finish the course you get a diploma, after which you can apply for an internship in the same organization!
Depending on the program you choose, you can pay from $1,212 to $5,025.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| The Academy of Pet Careers | 3550 West Clay St. St. Charles, Missouri 63301 |
Salary
The salary for dog trainers in Missouri ranges from $30,208 to $36,404.
This means that, on average, you can earn about $33,259.
The best cities to become a dog trainer in Missouri based on salaries are Saint Louis and Florissant.
| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | $34,231 |
| St. Louis | $34,368 |
| Springfield | $32,629 |
| Independence | $34,194 |
| Columbia | $33,972 |
| St. Joseph | $33,901 |
| Lee's Summit | $34,101 |
| St. Charles | $34,181 |
| St. Peters | $34,107 |
| Florissant | $34,312 |
Regional Salary in Missouri
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City, MO-KS | 110 | $46,330 | $22.28 | $66,080 | $30,220 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL | 150 | $45,970 | $22.1 | $72,290 | $29,330 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What certifications should I look for as a dog trainer?
You should get certificates from reputable organizations, such as the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) or the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP).
It is not obligatory but it indicates a commitment to professional standards and ethics.
How can I become a professional dog trainer in Missouri?
You must know how to work with dogs, and you should be aware that you’re working with an animal that doesn’t understand your language.
You will need to have patience, confidence, and professionalism when it comes to working with all the types of dog’s personalities.
You can also do this by attending dog training classes, workshops, and seminars.
Can you make living as a dog trainer in Missouri?
Yes, you can make a living by working as a dog trainer.
On average you will earn $33,259 annual salary, but your salary might go lower or higher depending on many factors.
How to Become a Dog Trainer by State