How to Become a Dog Trainer
If you have a natural connection with dogs and a desire to help others build better relationships with their pets, dog training could be a rewarding and flexible career. Whether you're guiding basic obedience or working with behavioural issues, dog trainers play a vital role in helping dogs live happy, well-adjusted lives.
In the UK, there's no single pathway to becoming a dog trainer, but building a solid foundation through education, experience and a deep understanding of canine behaviour is essential.
What Does It Take to Become a Dog Trainer
Becoming a dog trainer is as much about people skills as it is about working with dogs. You’ll need patience, clear communication, and a calm presence. A strong grasp of canine behaviour, body language, learning theory and positive reinforcement methods forms the core of modern, ethical training.
Most successful trainers invest time in studying animal psychology, attending seminars, reading up on the latest research, and working hands-on with a wide variety of dogs.
Do I Need to Take a Course?
While you don't legally need a qualification to work as a dog trainer in the UK, taking a professional course adds credibility, structure, and a clear understanding of ethical methods. Look for organisations like the IMDT (Institute of Modern Dog Trainers), APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers), or accredited Level 3 or 4 qualifications in dog training and behaviour.
Courses can cover everything from puppy socialisation to aggression management, and some even include practical placements to build real-world experience.
Is Experience Important?
Experience is absolutely essential. Theory alone won’t prepare you for the wide range of dogs and owners you'll encounter. Volunteering at dog shelters, shadowing experienced trainers, or offering basic training support for friends and family can help build confidence and skill.
The more dogs you work with, the better you'll become at reading body language, responding to challenging behaviour, and adjusting your approach to suit each dog’s personality and history.
How Much Do Dog Training Courses Cost?
Dog training courses in the UK vary depending on the provider and level. A basic introductory course might cost around £200 to £500, while advanced or accredited programmes can range from £1,000 to £3,000. Many are offered online with optional in-person workshops or assessments.
Investing in ongoing education is part of being a good trainer—there's always something new to learn in this field.
How Much Can a Dog Trainer Earn?
Dog trainers in the UK typically charge between £30 and £70 per session. Group classes are often priced lower per dog, while one-on-one behavioural consultations can bring in higher fees. Mobile trainers and those with niche specialities, like aggression or separation anxiety, may charge more. Earnings grow with reputation, experience, and client base.
Many trainers also supplement income with online courses, books, or group workshops.
Are There Government-Funded Dog Training Courses?
Government funding for dog training courses is limited, but some local colleges and adult learning centres may offer funded animal care programmes that include elements of training and behaviour. Apprenticeships in animal care are also available for younger learners, and some Level 3 animal behaviour qualifications may be eligible for Advanced Learner Loans.
It's worth speaking to course providers or checking with your local council or Jobcentre for current options.
Who Can Become a Dog Trainer?
Anyone with a passion for dogs, a willingness to learn, and the patience to teach both animals and people can become a dog trainer. There’s no upper age limit, and people enter the profession from all kinds of backgrounds—some from animal care, others from teaching, psychology, or completely different careers.
What's most important is a genuine interest in helping dogs and their humans build better lives together.
Different Types of Dog Trainers
Dog training isn’t one-size-fits-all. Trainers often specialise in different areas depending on their interests and skill sets. Some focus on puppy socialisation, while others concentrate on obedience, agility, working dogs, or behavioural issues like reactivity or separation anxiety. Choosing a focus area can help shape your career, your training style, and the kinds of clients you attract.
Ethics and Positive Reinforcement
Modern training in the UK strongly leans toward force-free, science-backed methods. Using positive reinforcement (like treats, praise and play) is not only more humane but also more effective long-term. Trainers who use outdated techniques like punishment or dominance-based approaches often face criticism and lose credibility quickly.
Aligning with professional bodies like the IMDT or APDT shows that you follow a code of ethics, which builds trust with clients.
Professional Organisations to Join
Joining a professional body can help you grow and show clients that you're serious. Some of the most respected in the UK include:
- IMDT (Institute of Modern Dog Trainers)
- APDT UK (Association of Pet Dog Trainers)
- PPG (Pet Professional Guild)
- ABTC (Animal Behaviour and Training Council)
These groups often offer networking, continuing education, certification pathways and insurance partnerships.
Insurance and Legal Considerations
If you’re working as a dog trainer—especially as a freelancer—you'll need proper insurance. Public liability insurance, professional indemnity, and cover for injury or damage caused by a dog in your care are essential. It protects you and gives peace of mind to your clients.
If you’re training dogs that show aggression or have legal status concerns (like certain breeds under the Dangerous Dogs Act), be aware of additional responsibilities and laws around safety, muzzling and lead use.
Marketing and Building a Client Base
Once trained, you’ll need to attract clients. Building a professional website, posting regular dog training content on social media, and getting listed in directories like DogFriendly, Yell, or local vet referrals can help.
Word of mouth is also huge in this industry. Being approachable, responsive, and reliable can grow your reputation fast—especially if you offer free talks, taster sessions or work with local shelters or charities.
Summary
Becoming a dog trainer in the UK is a flexible and rewarding career path for those with patience, curiosity and a love of dogs. While no formal licence is required, professional training, practical experience and strong communication skills are crucial. With the right foundation, you can build a successful career helping dogs and their owners thrive.