Dog Obedience Training Certification

Dog-obedience training can be a rewarding and enjoyable profession. However, it is important that you consider obtaining a certification before training dogs. Getting a dog-training certification proves that you understand the basics behind humanely training a dog and dog behavior. While you do not need certification to train dogs in obedience, it will give you important credentials and will give you opportunities that you may not have gotten if you had not been certified.

  1. Significance

    • Holding certification as a dog-obedience trainer ensures that you are up-to-date on the latest and best positive training methods. By keeping current on obedience training and training methods, you make yourself more valuable to your prospective clients or employer.

    Function

    • Certification proves that you are not an amateur or someone who uses obsolete and dangerous training methods. It separates you from the dilettantes as someone who is professional. You'll be tested with a written test on a variety of topics dealing with dog behavior, how animals learn, different training techniques, history of dog training and how to set up dog-training classes.

    Types

    • Among the organizations that offer certification in dog-obedience training are the Animal Behavior College (ABCDT), The Animal Behavior Society (ACAAB, CAAB), International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (CABC, CDBC), Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (CCAB), International Association of Canine Professionals (CDT) and Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA).

    Time Frame

    • Training for certification takes weeks, if not months. Many of the certification courses are self-paced, so the amount of time required will depend on the time you spend learning and understanding the coursework.

    Benefits

    • According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, animal trainers made a mean annual wage of $31,080 in 2009. Most dog-obedience trainers are self-employed, so the wage varies considerably due to location and type of position.

    Cost and Requirements

    • The cost and requirements depend on the individual certification. For example, as of May 2010 CCPDT charges $385 for testing and requires proof of 300 hours of dog-training experience within five years, including 225 hours of instructor experience. Animal Behavioral College charges $2,915 to $3,670 for its course and certification. Some organizations require hands-on training, while others will certify with coursework.