For those passionate about understanding and working with dogs, a career as a dog trainer offers a rewarding and fulfilling path.
Modern dog trainers focus on force-free, reward-based methods to build strong, positive relationships between dogs and their owners.
Becoming a dog trainer is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of both dogs and their owners. This career allows you to work closely with animals while applying scientific principles of behaviour and training.
Whether helping a family raise a well-mannered companion, aiding in the rehabilitation of a rescue dog or training an assistance dog, trainers play a crucial role in improving human-animal relationships. The profession also offers flexibility, with opportunities to work independently, specialise in specific training areas, or collaborate with other animal care professionals.
Dogs who receive positive, consistent training are often happier and more confident. Training strengthens the human-animal bond and helps prevent behavioural issues that could lead to rehoming, or in some cases, euthanasia.
But not all dogs learn at the same pace or face the same challenges. Training and behavioural issues can range from simple to complex, requiring expert advice. That’s why experienced, qualified dog trainers have become an essential part of a dog’s overall healthcare and wellness team, helping to ensure every dog has the best chance at a happy, well adjusted life.
Dog trainers take on a variety of responsibilities, including:
Successful dog trainers possess a range of skills, including:
Qualified dog trainers can work in various settings, including:
As of early 2025, average earnings for Dog Trainers in Australia is approximately between AUD $65,000 to $75,000 (SEEK). This is only a guide and several factors contribute to salary variations:
As more pet owners seek ethical and science-based training solutions, the demand for skilled, force-free dog trainers continues to grow. With increasing awareness of the benefits of positive reinforcement, trainers specialising in modern, humane methods are especially sought after.
Today, modern force-free, reward-based techniques are the gold standard in dog training. Using ethical methods, trainers create a positive learning experience that strengthens communication and trust between dogs and their owners. This approach enhances a dog’s confidence, well-being and ensures their safety and that of the people and other animals around them.
To become a professional dog trainer, formal education and hands-on experience are highly recommended.
With a commitment to lifelong learning and ethical training practices, you can build a successful career as a dog trainer and make a meaningful impact in the lives of dogs and their owners.
Mia, AVT graduate of the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (Blended Learning), turned her lifelong love of animals into a rewarding career. Discover how she balanced work, study, and her passion for horses to become a vet nurse.
Discover how Lou transformed her career at 58 to become a Veterinary Nurse. From studying with AVT to working at Furlife Vet and Equine Hospital, Lou’s story shows it’s never too late to follow your passion for animals.
Key findings of the 2024 VET student outcomes report (satisfaction survey) shows 92% would recommend training and 92% were employed or in further study after completing training.
The leader in delivery of Australian Nationally Recognised Qualifications including ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (formerly Animal Studies), ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services, ACM40818 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing and ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training.
Applied Vocational Training (AVT) delivers a range of qualifications and short courses for students wishing to pursue a career working with animals.
AVT is a Registered Training Organisation based in Perth, Western Australia, providing on-campus and online courses to students studying throughout Australia. More about us →
We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land where our campus is based, the Whadjuk people of the Noongar Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and we commit to walking alongside our indigenous brothers and sisters. We extend that respect to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in our community.
Applied Vocational Training (AVT) is proudly a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 5273).
