05/05/2022
Want to become a dog trainer ? I get the question on how I became one all the time. So here is MY advice I have for people who are interested..
Qualities I have found important for dog training
1. You must love working with and teaching people - i hear all the time, “I hate people so I’ll just work with dogs.” 🤯 Who do you think you’ll be teaching? Lol Yes you train dogs but you teach humans - even if your main for of service is board and trains (you are with the dog more than humans) you still have to teach the humans and have them be a part of it if you want the dogs new healthy behaviors to stick. 🤍
2. Open minded and eager to learn - THIS. I think it’s easy for dog trainers (really people in general) to learn one way and get stuck in it or thinks it’s better than all the rest. I 100% did this - there was a period I thought I had nothing to learn except for from an exceptional few. I wasn’t truly confident I was coming from ego and insecurity. Thankfully that phase didn’t last too long - I’ve learned from clients, dogs, kids, students in the prison program , new trainers, trainers who do things different from me, etc. I always want to keep an open mind and stay eager to learn. The moment I feel like I know everything (it will be time for a reality check and to switch careers lol).
3. Don’t put other trainers down - even if they do it differently. There are so many people that need help - be yourself and you’ll find the right fit clients and in general it’s just not professional. Energy is contagious- surround yourself with people who want to see others succeed.
How I became a trainer
* I got my certificate from animal behavior college - p.s. certificates aren’t necessary and if you’re on a budget I would suggest shadowing or workshop first
* I started as a Student, then shadowing, then assistant trainer and then head trainer at weekend classes back in the day (more on this in my next post)
* Workshops ! Do them.
* Shadow people! Expect to pay people for their knowledge and time. Excited to share who I’m shadowing in a couple weeks.
