What does a Pet Trainer do?

Pet trainers provide a range of training services for domestic animals, primarily focusing on dogs. They may work with animals individually or as a group. Specific types of teaching they provide include obedience training, etiquette around humans and other animals, and housetraining. They may also train pets to be service animals. They provide support for behavior modification to address issues such as separation anxiety and food aggression. Their priority is to establish a safe and comfortable training environment that allows for a positive interaction with the animal.

Pet trainers commonly have experience as an animal trainer, groomer, or veterinary assistant. They should have extensive experience working with animals and a thorough understanding of pet psychology and behavior. Certification as a pet trainer or completion of a related training program is an advantage.

Education--
Work/Life Balance
3.2 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
3.0 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

How much does a Pet Trainer make near United States?

Confident
$46,159 /yr
Total Pay
$38,394
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$7,765
 /yr

Additional Pay

$46,159

 / yr
$29K$74K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
See More Insights

Pet Trainer Career Path

Learn how to become a Pet Trainer, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Pet Trainer
$46,159/yr
Pet Trainer Supervisor
$40,881/yr
Pet Trainer

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
5%
2 - 4
3%
5 - 7
0%
8+
92%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Pet Trainer Insights

Read what Pet Trainer professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
RFA Security ServicesRFA Security Services
Explosive Detection Dog Handler
Mar 22, 2022

“If I had any issues I found communication was key and this was easily accessible.”

Suburban K9Suburban K9
Dog Trainer
Jul 12, 2023

“Dogs can grate on your patience and sometimes it can be challenging to maintain a good work life balance.”

Southeastern Guide DogsSoutheastern Guide Dogs
Certified Guide Dog Instructor
Feb 16, 2022

“I’ve always felt very supported at SGD and really enjoy the team I work with.”

Dog Gone FunDog Gone Fun
Dog Handler
May 23, 2023

“This team is really amazing as well because everyone tries to cover your shift when needed and has each others backs when possible.”

Dog Gone FunDog Gone Fun
Dog Handler
May 24, 2023

“This team is amazing as well because everyone tries to cover your shift when needed and has each others backs when possible.”

West LA Dogs
Dog Handler
Aug 16, 2021

“Owners were really nice and wanted the best for everyone”

Prairie Path Pet CarePrairie Path Pet Care
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker
Dec 8, 2022

“Everyone who I worked with was amazing and so welcoming.”

PetSuitesPetSuites
Pet Pro
Nov 16, 2022

“She’s awesome and adorable and I love her.”

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Pet Trainer Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Pet Trainer

The most similar professions to Pet Trainer are:
  • Veterinarian
  • Veterinary Technician
  • Pet Groomer
  • Animal Care Technician

Related Careers

Veterinarian
$195,027
No skills overlap
Veterinary Technician
$44,862
No skills overlap
Pet Groomer
$58,659
Animal Care Technician
$39,351

Pet Trainer Jobs