How Much Does It Cost to Become a Dog Trainer?

Written by Good Dog Academy

So… you’re thinking about becoming a professional dog trainer.

You imagine working with happy, wiggly pups, helping families enjoy calmer, better-behaved companions, and making a living doing something you love. But there’s one big question on your mind:

“How much does it cost to get started?”

You’re not alone—this is one of the first questions aspiring trainers ask us. Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what to expect… and why now is the perfect time to jump in.

The Earning Potential: Is Dog Training Profitable?

Short answer? Absolutely.

Professional dog trainers in Canada typically charge:

• $150 – $200 per student for a 6-week group class (with 6 students per class and 3 classes a week, that’s around $2,700 monthly just from classes!)

• $50 – $150 per hour for private sessions (just 6 sessions a week adds another $600/month)

Even part-time, that’s a healthy income stream—and many trainers grow beyond this with specialized services like puppy development programs, behaviour modification, and advanced obedience.

Why the demand?
With an estimated 8.2 million dogs in Canada and 41% of households owning one, the need for professional help is enormous. Guardians want their dogs to be well-behaved, safe in public, and a joy to live with.

Do People Really Pay for Dog Training?

Oh, yes. And for good reason:

• Well-trained dogs have more freedom (think patios, beaches, off-leash parks)

• Training helps prevent behaviour problems that lead to shelter surrenders

• It saves money in the long run by preventing costly damage and liability issues

• Group classes and private training are consistently booked solid in many areas

What It Takes to Become a Professional Dog Trainer

Being a dog lover is essential—but love alone isn’t enough to succeed in this competitive industry. A great trainer needs:

• Formal education in canine behaviour science and training methods

• Practical skills to handle a wide variety of dogs and situations

• Coaching ability to teach humans as well as dogs

• Ethical grounding in humane, science-based training techniques

That’s why a recognized certification program is so important—it gives you the knowledge, skills, and credibility to thrive.

How Much Does Dog Trainer Education Cost?

At Good Dog Academy, our Professional Pet Dog Trainer (PPDT) Certificate Program gives you a complete professional education for just $895.

Here’s what’s included:

• 📚 Comprehensive Theory – learning theory, behaviour science, canine health, first aid, client coaching, and more

• 🐕 Hands-On Practical Training – with personal feedback from certified professionals

• 🎥 Live Webinars & Q&A – real-time access to expert trainers

• 🌎 Flexible Online Learning – study at your own pace from anywhere

And the best part? Many graduates earn back their tuition in their first month after certification.

How Long Does It Take to Get Certified?

Our PPDT program is self-paced—most students finish in 3 to 6 months. You can:

• Keep working your current job while you train

• Spend extra time on the topics you find challenging

• Start offering services as you progress

• Enjoy lifetime support from instructors and mentors

What Makes a Successful Dog Trainer?

The most successful trainers share a few key traits:

• Patience (with dogs and humans)

• Problem-solving skills

• Physical stamina (training isn’t just sitting with a clicker)

• A love of learning (methods evolve and improve)

• Business skills (marketing, scheduling, client care)

And yes—you can learn these skills through a well-structured certification program.

How to Get Started

Step 1: Enroll in a reputable, industry-recognized program (like Good Dog Academy’s PPDT).
Step 2: Gain experience through volunteering, shadowing, and practice sessions.
Step 3: Build your client base with friends, neighbours, and local networking.
Step 4: Establish your business—insurance, pricing, packages, and marketing.

Why Choose Good Dog Academy?

• ✅ Affordable tuition with a fast return on investment

• ✅ Expert mentorship from experienced, certified trainers

• ✅ A curriculum that balances theory and real-world practice

• ✅ Flexible study that fits into your life

🚀 Ready to Launch Your Dream Career?

Whether you want to train dogs full-time or part-time, now is the time to start. The demand is there, the income potential is strong, and the personal rewards? Absolutely priceless.

🎓 Enroll today in Good Dog Academy’s Professional  Dog Trainer Certificate Program and start building the career you’ve always dreamed of—helping dogs and their humans live happier, more harmonious lives.