I’m just starting out in this field. I’ve done some volunteer work and a few dog-walking jobs, but now I’m working on my certification through Animal Behavior College. Planning to start full-time at someone else’s business this summer. I’ll be in Long Island, NY, where the minimum wage is $10. Also thinking about working part-time on my days off.
Note: I’m not interested in Petco because I’m unsure about their ethics, especially when it comes to where they get their animals. Open to other places though.
Depends on a lot of factors… are you teaching classes, doing one-on-one sessions, working independently, or getting a set salary? Most trainers around here work independently and rent space, giving a cut to whoever owns the location.
I’m a private trainer myself. Your pay depends on your skills, reputation, and what type of training you do. If it’s basic obedience, pay tends to be lower, especially in the first couple of years. Certification isn’t required, but it can help get you hired or contracted. Liability insurance is also a plus if you want to get into the business seriously.
In my experience, trainers working classes typically make around $30,000 a year. I started at $50 per hour in private sessions to build my reputation and later increased it. Now I charge $75 for most sessions, with higher rates for advanced or high-risk work. Contract jobs pay less per hour but offer guaranteed hours, which is at least $20 per hour plus bonuses. Seasonal work can also affect income - I might make $1,000–$2,000 monthly in winter, but $5,000–$6,000 in summer.
If you’re just getting into the field, don’t expect to live off training alone, especially if you’re only teaching classes. You may need another job or fallback career, especially at the start. Building a reputation takes time, connections, and experience. Ideally, you should start training before or while getting certified, even volunteering at rescues to gain experience and clients. Training isn’t super profitable for most people, so it’s best to approach it as extra income rather than a full-time career.
@Lisa
I actually already have a part-time job, and I’m looking to make training full-time if possible. Even if I start part-time, I think I can manage with my current job. I know it won’t make me rich anytime soon.
My goal is to work for someone else instead of going independent right away. I’m just trying to get an idea of the kind of income I’ll have so I can figure out my budget. My part-time job is at a movie theater and pays $13 per hour.
Honestly, as a basic obedience trainer, I charge $75 per hour but only do about 3-5 hours a week. While it’s a good hourly rate, travel and prep time reduce the actual earnings. $20–30 per hour is more realistic.
It’s good to have a second job, honestly. When I was apprenticing under a full-time trainer, they did about 15-20 sessions a week. It’s pretty much a full-time job, especially with travel. I work at a daycare now to make sure I have enough hours.
It’s not a high-paying job, but I make it work and still cover my bills, car, and dog care. My favorite part is getting to spend time with my dog and do some hiking or agility training. I don’t need a lot to be happy – just my dog and a bit of extra cash for some cool dog gear.
Junita said: @Lilyharper
I’m not planning to start independently. I just want to work for a company. Should I expect minimum wage, or maybe a bit more?
From my experience as a former PetSmart trainer, they might pay you a bit over minimum wage if you already have experience with animals. I also work in the vet field, and my starting pay was $10.25 per hour plus 20% commission for each class sold (either 6-week courses or private classes).
While big chain stores like PetSmart might train you, the program isn’t extensive (about 80 hours), so most of what you learn comes from real-world experience. I also have a diploma in dog training and specialize in certain areas, so keep in mind you’ll need to constantly improve and learn to succeed. It’s not a luxurious field, but it’s rewarding in many other ways.
@Blake
Do you know much about Petco and PetSmart and how they get their animals? I’ve heard some things and don’t fully trust them. If it weren’t for that, they would be my top picks for employers.
Junita said: @Blake
Do you know much about Petco and PetSmart and how they get their animals? I’ve heard some things and don’t fully trust them. If it weren’t for that, they would be my top picks for employers.
I’m not sure about Petco, but PetSmart works with reputable suppliers now, at least for small animals. They also have a partnership with Banfield Pet Hospital, which means their animals get regular vet care. I used to work at Banfield, and I know their standards are high.
PetSmart also collaborates with rescues and has trainers to help with behavioral issues, so pets stay with their owners instead of getting rehomed. I felt good about starting my career with them after looking into their practices. Also, you can try calling local trainers to ask about their methods and prices – sometimes it’s a good way to find out who’s trustworthy in your area.
Junita said: @Lilyharper
I’m not planning to start independently. I just want to work for a company. Should I expect minimum wage, or maybe a bit more?
Most likely, you’ll get either minimum wage or a commission-based pay. The thing is, independent trainers often don’t hire unless they have a long-term colleague to work with. So you’re left with places like daycares, Petco, or PetSmart, which usually offer only a few classes per week.
It’s probably worth shadowing a trainer after you finish your certification or even sooner. ABC graduates often need to complete an internship before they can make enough to work independently. Getting hands-on experience is essential to build up your skills and confidence.
Check out Tawzer Dog for some additional resources.
I’m not a trainer myself, but I know a few trainers. None of them are salaried; their pay varies. Some months they’re booked solid, and other times work is slow. They all rely on regular group classes to keep things steady. One trainer is super popular, so she’s always busy and even has outside gigs – but that’s pretty rare.
@BarkWiseGuru3
Are they self-employed, or do they work for someone else? I’m mainly looking to be employed by a company right now, not interested in going solo just yet.
Junita said: @BarkWiseGuru3
Are they self-employed, or do they work for someone else? I’m mainly looking to be employed by a company right now, not interested in going solo just yet.
They’re mostly independent. A couple of them do work for others, but it’s not full-time.
According to the BLS, the average wage for animal trainers in NYC is around $20.42 an hour, but this includes highly experienced trainers. For someone starting out, it’s more realistic to expect $10–15 an hour until you build up experience and clients.