DOG TRAINING CAREER
You may think that dog training is a career you would like to take seriously. But have you really thought well enough about it? Here are some points to ponder before engaging in a full-pledged dog-training career:
a. Consider your inclination to dogs. Do you really love dogs or is it just a group or breed of dogs that you are especially fond of? Can you really work well with them regardless of what age the dog is or what breed, or even if the dog is so stubborn or restless? Before engaging in dog training careers, do consider if you really love working with and teaching the canine population. Make sure that your state of being a certified dog-lover is not a temporary state of fondness for them but a lasting
b. Consider your working attitude and skills with people. Dog training careers are not just about training dogs. It is also about training people, specifically the dog keepers- to train their dogs. Being a professional dog trainer means you will be a professional teacher for people as well. You have to have patience to dog keepers, you have to empathize with them and understand their concerns with their dog, and you need to share the same concern for the welfare and the development of their pets.
c. Consider the type of dog training education you would like to have. There are many ways by which a dog enthusiast transforms into a professional dog trainer. The first option is to read lots and lots of publications about dog training. There are many dog training books, dog training magazines, and dog training articles that can be found on bookstores, and even on the Internet. Another choice is to learn dog training through hands-on experience as a volunteer in dog rescue centers or dog shelters or as an apprentice of a professional dog trainer. If you become an apprentice, then you’ll be able to get a dog training experience that’s guided by an expert. Last but not the least, an aspiring dog trainer can enroll in dog training degree programs offered by dog training schools or veterinary centers. Such programs usually last for months. The usual course involves lectures from professional dog experts and discussions regarding dog learning theories and dog training techniques. Such courses also involve internships in dog training schools for hands-on experiences.
d. Consider what type of dog training career you would want to take. Think about your plans after getting your dog training education. A professional dog trainer can teach dog tricks on a part-time or freelance basis to private individuals. They can also join groups and provide training by groups. Some also opt to teach dog keepers about the necessary steps and measures in training their dogs.
