How Much Does It Cost To Become A Dog Trainer - Good Dog Academy
Apr 29, 2024Written by Good Dog Academy
TL;DR – Key Takeaways
- Professional dog trainer certification at Good Dog Academy costs $895-$995
- Certified trainers can earn $2,000–$3,300+ monthly part-time
- Training takes 4–12 months to complete
- High national demand with 8.2 million dogs in Canada
- Low startup costs and strong long-term career potential
What Does Dog Trainer Certification Cost?
The Professional Pet Dog Trainer (PPDT) Certificate Program at Good Dog Academy costs $895-$995, depending on the package you choose.
The comprehensive Professional Dog Trainer program includes:
- 22 detailed theory courses on canine behaviour and learning science
- Over 50 practical training videos with step-by-step demonstrations
- Live webinars and interactive Q&A with certified instructors
- Flexible online learning that fits your schedule
- Lifetime mentorship and access to course materials
Most graduates recover their tuition within their first month of offering paid training sessions. The program provides everything needed to confidently and ethically start a professional dog training business.
How Much Money Do Dog Trainers Make?
Dog trainers in Canada enjoy strong earning potential across multiple income streams:
Group Classes
- $150–$200 per student for 6-week courses
- 6 students × 3 classes weekly = ~$2,700 monthly
Private Sessions
- $50–$150 per hour
- 6 sessions weekly = $600+ additional income
Estimated Part-Time Income: $3,300+ per month
Full-Time Trainers: Many earn $5,000–$8,000+ monthly by offering behaviour modification, puppy development programs, or board-and-train packages.
Professional certification enables trainers to charge premium rates, attract a consistent clientele, and collaborate with veterinarians and shelters.
Is There Demand for Dog Training Services?
Yes, Canada’s pet sector continues to expand rapidly, with 41% of households owning dogs.
Professional training remains one of the most sought-after pet services because it:
- Reduces behaviour issues and improves the quality of life for dogs and owners
- Prevents property damage and safety risks
- Keeps dogs adoptable and out of shelters
- Enhances access to public spaces and community events
Demand is highest in urban centres like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal, where pet ownership and apartment living increase the need for skilled trainers.
How Long Does Dog Training Certification Take?
Good Dog Academy’s PPDT program is self-paced, allowing most students to complete certification within 4–12 months.
Students can:
- Continue working while studying online
- Revisit complex topics as needed
- Begin offering basic services during training
The flexible design makes it ideal for career changers or part-time learners looking to start quickly without compromising educational quality.
What Skills Do You Need to Become a Dog Trainer?
Technical Skills
- Knowledge of learning theory, conditioning, and behaviour science
- Hands-on experience using humane, evidence-based methods
- Confidence handling dogs of all breeds and temperaments
People Skills
- Clear communication and coaching ability
- Patience and empathy for both clients and dogs
- Analytical problem-solving during training sessions
Business Skills
- Scheduling, pricing, and customer management
- Marketing and local networking
- Professional communication and client retention strategies
Certified trainers blend strong technical and interpersonal skills to create lasting client relationships and consistent income.
What’s Included in Dog Training Education?
Good Dog Academy’s PDT program delivers a complete foundation in both theory and practical application, including:
- Comprehensive Theory: Learning theory, behaviour modification, canine health, and first aid
- Hands-On Training: Real-world exercises with personalized instructor feedback
- Live Learning: Webinars, Q&A sessions, and interactive assignments
- Flexible Format: 100% online with lifetime access and support
Graduates leave prepared to train dogs professionally and manage their own businesses confidently.
How Do You Start a Dog Training Career?
- Enroll in a recognized certification program to gain professional credentials.
- Gain hands-on experience through volunteering, practice with clients, or mentorships.
- Build your initial client base via local networking, online promotion, and referrals.
- Set up your business infrastructure — insurance, contracts, pricing, and marketing systems.
Within months, many graduates transition from part-time learners to full-time professional trainers serving clients in their communities.
Why Choose Professional Dog Training as a Career?
A career in dog training offers:
- High income potential with flexible work hours
- Growing demand across Canada’s thriving pet industry
- Deep personal satisfaction in helping dogs and families
- Low startup costs compared to other small businesses
- Stability in a recession-resistant, service-based industry
Professional trainers enjoy independence, creativity, and meaningful daily work improving animal welfare.
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?
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✅ Affordable tuition with a fast return on investment
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✅ Expert mentorship from experienced, certified trainers
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✅ A curriculum that balances theory and real-world practice
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✅ 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.
