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How much does a Dog Trainer make?

The average salary for a Dog Trainer is $38,327 per year in the US.

Dog training can lead to a rewarding career. The average yearly salary for a dog trainer is about $38,327. This number can change based on where someone works and their experience. Those who have been in the field for a while often earn more.

The salary can also change based on where the job takes place. Dog trainers in urban areas might make more because the cost of living is higher. In some places, trainers can earn anywhere from $24,000 to $75,000 a year. Most people in this field make between $28,636 and $56,455.

Aspiring dog trainers can look forward to a career that combines their love for animals with a good income. With dedication and experience, earnings in this field can grow over time.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Dog Trainer?

Cities like Columbus, OH, and Chicago, IL, offer some of the highest salaries for dog trainers. In Columbus, OH, dog trainers can expect an average salary of around $93,191, while those in Chicago, IL, earn approximately $73,148. Both cities provide strong job markets and good opportunities for professional growth in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Dog Trainer jobs, highlighting Columbus, OH with the highest at $93,191 and Columbia, SC with the lowest at $55,442.
  1. Columbus, OH
    Average Salary: $93,191
    In Columbus, those guiding pets to better behavior often find work with local veterinary clinics and pet stores. Companies like PetSmart and local animal shelters look for professionals who can offer training services. The city's pet-friendly culture supports a growing demand for these services.
    Find Dog Trainer jobs in Columbus, OH


  2. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $73,148
    Chicago presents a vibrant opportunity for those in the pet training field. The Windy City has numerous pet-focused businesses, including Petco and various private training facilities. The city's love for pets creates a steady flow of clients seeking expert training.
    Find Dog Trainer jobs in Chicago, IL


  3. Providence, RI
    Average Salary: $67,045
    Providence offers a unique chance to work with a tight-knit community. Here, pet trainers often collaborate with local animal rescue organizations and community centers. The city’s small size allows for strong community ties, making it easier to build a loyal client base.
    Find Dog Trainer jobs in Providence, RI


  4. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $64,567
    Boston’s rich history and progressive outlook make it a great place for pet trainers. Many trainers work with high-end pet services and luxury hotels. The city's emphasis on education and well-being also opens doors to work with educational institutions and research facilities.
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  5. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $62,779
    Seattle’s love for outdoor activities makes it an exciting place for pet trainers. Many professionals work with companies like Banfield Pet Hospital and local parks. The city’s progressive attitude toward pets often leads to innovative training programs.
    Find Dog Trainer jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $58,023
    Richmond offers a blend of Southern charm and urban convenience. Pet trainers here can find work with local veterinary clinics and animal shelters. The city’s growing pet culture creates a steady demand for professional training services.
    Find Dog Trainer jobs in Richmond, VA


  7. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $57,205
    Portland’s vibrant community and eco-friendly lifestyle make it a perfect place for pet trainers. Many professionals work with local pet stores and eco-friendly pet brands. The city's emphasis on sustainability also opens up unique training opportunities.
    Find Dog Trainer jobs in Portland, OR


  8. Charleston, SC
    Average Salary: $55,631
    Charleston’s historic charm and warm climate make it an appealing place for pet trainers. Many work with local veterinary practices and pet boarding facilities. The city’s strong community bonds often lead to long-term client relationships.
    Find Dog Trainer jobs in Charleston, SC


  9. Virginia Beach, VA
    Average Salary: $55,548
    Virginia Beach offers a coastal lifestyle that pet trainers can enjoy. Many professionals find work with local animal shelters and pet resorts. The city’s focus on family and outdoor activities creates a steady demand for pet training services.
    Find Dog Trainer jobs in Virginia Beach, VA


  10. Columbia, SC
    Average Salary: $55,442
    Columbia presents a balanced opportunity for pet trainers. Many work with local veterinary clinics and pet supply stores. The city’s growing pet culture and family-friendly environment make it a great place to build a successful training business.
    Find Dog Trainer jobs in Columbia, SC

What are the best companies a Dog Trainer can work for?

The Dog Wizard offers some of the highest salaries for Dog Trainers, with an average of $62,205 per year. Companies like Destination Pet, LLC and PetSmart also provide good compensation for trainers, with averages around $43,000 and $42,000, respectively. Job seekers may find attractive opportunities with these top-paying companies.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Dog Trainer jobs, highlighting The Dog Wizard with the highest at $62,205 and Pappy's Pet Lodge with the lowest at $26,500.
  1. The Dog Wizard
    Average Salary: $62,205
    The Dog Wizard is a top-rated company for Dog Trainer jobs, offering competitive salaries. They focus on advanced dog training techniques and have operations in several cities across the U.S. Their trainers receive extensive training, and they offer both in-home and online sessions.


  2. Destination Pet, LLC
    Average Salary: $43,118
    Destination Pet, LLC provides a variety of pet services, including dog training. They offer a supportive environment and training for their dog trainers. They operate multiple locations in various states, offering both in-home and in-center training options.


  3. PetSmart
    Average Salary: $41,903
    PetSmart offers rewarding Dog Trainer positions with a focus on customer service and pet care. They have a wide presence across the U.S. PetSmart provides ongoing training and development opportunities for their trainers, ensuring high standards in service.


  4. Tip Top K9 OKC
    Average Salary: $40,833
    Tip Top K9 OKC is a well-known company for dog training, offering a good salary for their trainers. They are located in Oklahoma City and specialize in obedience and behavioral training. Their trainers work closely with clients to achieve the best results for their dogs.


  5. Best Friends Pet Care INC
    Average Salary: $39,053
    Best Friends Pet Care INC provides comprehensive pet care services, including dog training. They offer competitive salaries and a supportive work environment. They operate in several locations, offering flexible training schedules for their trainers.


  6. Dog Training Elite
    Average Salary: $38,300
    Dog Training Elite is a reputable company for those interested in dog training. They offer a decent salary and provide ongoing training and support for their staff. They have multiple locations and offer various training programs to suit different needs.


  7. Invisible Fence Brand
    Average Salary: $38,167
    Invisible Fence Brand offers dog training services with a focus on behavior modification. They provide a stable salary and opportunities for growth. They operate in several regions, offering both in-home and in-center training.


  8. Petco
    Average Salary: $30,705
    Petco offers a variety of pet services, including dog training. They provide a good salary and opportunities for professional development. Petco has a widespread presence, offering both in-home and in-store training options.


  9. Pappy's Pet Lodge
    Average Salary: $26,500
    Pappy's Pet Lodge offers dog training services with a focus on creating a loving environment for pets. They offer a decent salary for their trainers. They operate in several locations, providing both boarding and training services.

How to earn more as a Dog Trainer?

Working as a Dog Trainer can lead to a rewarding career, and with certain strategies, it can also be a profitable one. To maximize earning potential in this field, one must focus on several key areas. Building a strong reputation through excellent service and satisfied clients is fundamental. This includes providing high-quality training, maintaining a clean and professional appearance, and offering exceptional customer service.

Another essential factor is expanding professional skills through continuous education. Dog training techniques evolve, and staying current with the latest methods and technologies can differentiate a trainer from the competition. Certification from recognized institutions, attending workshops, and networking with other professionals in the industry can enhance credibility and attract more clients. Specializing in niche markets, such as service dog training, competitive obedience, or behavior modification, can also increase earning potential. Establishing a strong online presence and leveraging social media platforms to showcase success stories and client testimonials helps draw in more business. Finally, offering a variety of services, such as group classes, one-on-one sessions, and at-home visits, can cater to different client needs and increase revenue streams.

To summarize, the following factors can help a Dog Trainer earn more:

  1. Build a strong reputation through quality service and professionalism
  2. Continuously update and expand professional skills
  3. Specialize in niche markets for targeted client attraction
  4. Establish and leverage a strong online presence
  5. Offer a variety of services to meet diverse client needs

Currently 223 Dog Trainer job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Dog Trainer in the US?

Learn what a Dog Trainer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Dog Trainer today.
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Dog Trainer
223 Job Openings