How to Be a Dog Trainer in Louisville, Kentucky

For a true dog lover, training dogs is a dream job, as it connects you with the dog on a deeper, more personal level than many dog-related jobs. Dog training classes can be taken online, or through a professional dog trainer, both of which can lead to licensing by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Unlike some states, Kentucky does not have a licensing process for professional dog trainers. However, operating a business in Louisville, Kentucky requires a thorough licensing and inspection process.

Instructions

    • 1

      Attend a licensed dog-training academy. Dog training normally takes place working side-by-side with a dog trainer at her facility, giving you the hands on knowledge to properly learn the trade. Trainers that also teach can be found through sites such as the Animal Behavior College, which has accredited trainers from all states in its network. Another way, possibly less effective, to train is by taking a knowledge-based online course, which covers the basics of the field. An example of an online course can be found at E-Training for Dogs.

    • 2

      Become accredited by The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. The CCPDT is the recognized national dog training licensing agent. Once your training is complete, you must register for the licensing exam and pay a fee. This is a knowledge assessment exam which is taken online on the CCPDT website. A complete study guide download is available on the CCPDT site.

    • 3

      Navigate the Louisville, Kentucky business licensing procedure. Although a dog-training license is not required, there are licenses and inspections necessary to open a business in Louisville, even if the business is run from your home. The first step is to decide if the training business is to be home-based or at a facility, and then visit the Louisville Department of Inspections, Permits and Licenses to begin the process. Full details are available at the Louisville Business Licensing Guide website.