Service Dog Trainer Certification

Dogs continue to be cherished companions to humans, as they have for thousands of years, hence the term “man’s best friend." This unique relationship continues to evolve in many ways. One of the most unique and rewarding ways that dogs enhance peoples’ lives is through their uncanny ability to provide ears, eyes, assistance and therapy for millions of people who suffer from disabilities. Such service dogs are generally selected for specific behavioral qualities, and undergo a specialized training program to prepare for this important job. Dog trainers who must train and prepare these dogs for a life of devoted service must also undergo a specialized training and certification process.

  1. History of the Guide Dog

    • German shepherd

      Some of the first reported guide dogs were those who aided German soldiers who were blinded during World War I. This concept further progressed simply by accident as a blind man from Tennessee partnered with a German shepherd breeder in Europe, and some of the first guide dogs were conceived and trained. Over the years, the abilities of dogs to aid persons with disabilities has grown to include the hearing impaired, persons suffering from epileptic seizures, persons with autism, and those with a variety of other physical or psychiatric conditions. Working breeds like the German shepherd or Labrador retriever are selected for this type of job due to their specific nature. Very specialized training is necessary for the dog to pass a guide-dog certification program--such a working dog can have a upwards of a 200-word vocabulary. It is necessary to have quality certified trainers to be able to produce guide-ready dogs.

    Basic Dog Training

    • It does not require any official certification to become a general dog trainer. Typically, a love of dogs and some length of apprenticeship working with an experienced trainer is all that required. There are numerous online and site schools that advertise training, but these can be very costly and are not the only option. Lots and lots of practical experience, practice, continued studying and working with experienced professionals is the key to becoming a qualified trainer for basic dog obedience.

    Certification for the Guide Dog Trainer

    • Becoming a specialized trainer capable of producing quality guide and working dogs requires intensive study. First, it is important to be knowledgeable and have an adequate background about dogs and general training principals. In many cases a college degree is required; one in animal behavior or biology is beneficial. An ability to teach is a must, as the trainer must be able to work with both dogs and people to convey necessary information in an effective manner. Lots of patience is a must! Time and repetition are part of training, and dogs are just like people--they have their good and bad days. Good public skills are also a must, as much of the intensive training will take place in public forums. It also cannot be overlooked that the trainer must be in good physical condition. Training is an active job, and many of the dogs are large and energetic. Trainers must be able to handle the activity associated with this kind of work.

    Time Frame

    • Quality training starts with participating in an apprenticeship. There are several nonprofit organizations across the country which can be found online. Contact one of these organizations to be put in touch with their resident trainer to learn more about potential apprenticeships. Generally, an apprenticeship will consist of working two and a half to 4 years under an experienced trainer. This is the best way, as it provides hands-on learning and troubleshooting under a qualified mentor

    Identification

    • There are several organizations that certify various levels of dog and guide dog trainers, thereby putting them into a nationally recognized resource network. Such networks include, but are not limited to, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, and the National K-9 Dog Trainers Association. Such organizations require an application process, and in some instances, written certification testing, as well as annual membership dues.

    Potential

    • Guide dog trainers typically do not make a large salary for their work, as most of the associations they work for are nonprofit organizations. Nonprofits rely on grants and donations to run their operations. To train such a service dog, the trainer must invest an average of two years of work and emotional attachment into the dog, making it difficult to part with it at the end of the training process. However, the end results are immeasurable and the feeling of accomplishment is worth the work and pain to many. The positive effect a guide dog will have in the life of someone who will come to rely on them is a reward in itself.