How much does a Dog Trainer make?
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.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dog Trainer?

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

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



