In Utah, dogs are cherished family members.
Becoming a dog trainer is a fulfilling endeavor in this state full of pet-loving individuals and communities.
You will need patience, love and care for all your clients no matter how big, small, shy, or angry they are.
Whether you’re interested in canine education or considering a career in Utah’s dog training industry, this guide will help you navigate the steps necessary to embark on this enriching journey.
Table of Contents
How to Become a Dog Trainer in Utah?
In order for you to build a successful career you first need to build a solid foundation.
We’ve provided a few basic steps you can take in order to launch your career as a professional dog trainer.
Step 1: Read and practice
The best way to learn is through reading and practice.
Don’t only stuff your nose in a book and think you’re ready to start the job just yet.
Dogs’ characters can change and vary depending on their origin, history, or breed.
You’ll need to learn, through books and practice combined how to deal with every situation.
After all, it is an animal and it can be unpredictable.
Step 2: Try volunteering
What better way to see what the job is than through observing and trying hands-on?
Volunteering may seem like a waste of time but think of it as an investment into your future job.
It’s just not monetary, but time-consuming instead.
You will likely work with professionals and experienced people who can guide you and help you establish your foundation, as well as take your first baby steps as a professional dog trainer.
Experienced and good professionals will always be happy to give you tips and tell you their mistakes so you can avoid them.
Step 3: Get a formal education
Every professional is more respected when they have formal education, diplomas, and certificates.
There are plenty of programs, seminars, and courses online and offline available in Utah that you can attend so you can become a better professional 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).
Step 4: Get a job
If you follow the previous steps you’ll have enough qualifications to put yourself on the market as an educated and certified dog trainer.
This does not mean that a job is a guarantee, but it will give you an advantage over the competition.
The experience will grow with each client, and any owner would rather bring their dog to a certified professional over those without formal education of some sort.
Dog Training School in Utah
Even though formal education is not needed in order to become a professional dog trainer it is encouraged to at least get certified.
You can do this by going to courses, classes, and workshops.
Penn Foster
The Dog Obedience Training Program at Penn Foster is an accredited online course.
It can be finished in as little as 7 months.
The program is affordable and accredited, and since it’s online you can take it anytime and anywhere!
Behavior Vets
This is an organization created by vets!
Aside from training dogs themselves, these vets organize events, workshops externships, and classes for professionals and other vets.
These are all public and you can apply to them via their website.
The events can last up to a few days.
Their prices can vary, and the sooner you apply the cheaper it will be.
They also provide free tips and tricks you can do at the beginning of your career!
ISCDT
Their classes are designed to help you get started in this career and advance in the easiest way.
The 18-class course ends with a certificate.
They also give you written assignments and homework on the exercises you do in class.
Their written courses are designed to take you through a multitude of dog training topics, from breeds and characteristics to unraveling various behavioral issues.
The tuition for the course is $499.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Penn Foster | 925 Oak Street Scranton, PA 18515 USA |
| Behavior Vets | 257 W 18th St. New York, NY 10011 |
| ISCDT | Online |
Salary
The average salary for dog trainers in Utah is $33,028.
The minimum and maximum range from $29,997 to $36,150, depending on the city in the state.
It’s most profitable to be a professional dog trainer in Salt Lake City.
| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Salt Lake City | $33,485 |
| Lehi | $31,944 |
| Provo | $32,095 |
| Sandy | $33,394 |
| Orem | $32,095 |
| Ogden | $32,336 |
| West Jordan | $33,364 |
| Layton | $32,215 |
| Logan | $31,882 |
| South Jordan | $33,334 |
Regional Salary in Utah
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ogden-Clearfield, UT | 80 | $30,290 | $14.56 | $47,310 | $21,870 |
| Provo-Orem, UT | 60 | $31,720 | $15.25 | $50,110 | $22,100 |
| Salt Lake City, UT | 110 | $35,430 | $17.03 | $50,980 | $20,690 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I become a professional dog trainer in Utah?
You have to know how to work with dogs.
You also have to 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 personalities that your doggie clients will have.
How much does dog training in Utah cost?
The cost of dog training varies widely depending on the trainer’s experience, location, and the type of training needed.
Basic obedience classes can cost around $100 to $200, while more specialized or one-on-one training may be more expensive.
Do I need formal education as a dog trainer in Utah?
No, you do not need a formal education, although it is better to attract clients.
If you do go to workshops, classes, and courses, make sure they’re certified.
How to Become a Dog Trainer by State
