The Most Dog Friendly Community Online
Join Dog Forum to Discuss Breeds, Training, Food and More

Becoming a dog trainer - advice needed

The Dog House - Watford

New Member
Registered
Messages
14
Reaction score
0
Points
0

Join our free community today.

Connect with other like-minded dog lovers!

Login or Register
Hi all,

I'm looking for some professional advice and I am hoping that you can help. I currently run a pet care company and I would like to expand my personal knowledge / skills by becoming a dog trainer. I have several customers that ask for advice with their dogs behaviour and so I feel that anything that helps both me and my customers look after their dogs better, has got to be of benefit.

My problem is that there appears to be no real "official" study programe in the UK that I need to follow to become a qualified and recognised trainer. I have found numerous websites offering 2 and 4 day courses, but I do not feel that is anywhere adequate to equip anyone with the knowledge and tools to advise dog owners whose pets display difficult behaviour.

I am looking to find a trainer that I can shadow to gain practical experience, but it worries me that some individuals who claim to be a "trainer" or "behaviourist" have no real training themselves.

What has been your experiences? All advice welcome.
 
For training try the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

For behaviour try COAPE or APBC.

All three are excellent professional bodies :)
 
Hi there, thanks for your response. Do you have personal experience of any of these organisations, I would value your opinion / experiences if you have.
 
For training try the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

For behaviour try COAPE or APBC.

All three are excellent professional bodies :)
These are the ones I would recommend as well. My experience with them is from working with my dogs under people who hold these qualificiations and a couple of friends who are currently undergoing training with them.

Unfortunately these days anyone can set themselves up as a Behaviourist or Trainer with absolutely NO recognition whatsoever. These three bodies are well recognised throughout the UK, and I would have no hesitation about going to a trainer/behaviourist with any of these credentials.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Thanks for your advice. I have now enrolled on the APDT foundation course for 2015 and have backed it up with assisting at 2 separate dog training schools.
 
I have been a member (now retired) of both the APDT and COAPE.

You will not regret your involvement with the APDT :)
 

Welcome to Dog Forum!

Join our vibrant online community dedicated to all things canine. Whether you're a seasoned owner or new to the world of dogs, our forum is your go-to hub for sharing stories, seeking advice, and connecting with fellow dog lovers. From training tips to health concerns, we cover it all. Register now and unleash the full potential of your dog-loving experience!

Login or Register
Back
Top