How to Make Money Working with Dogs

Written by Good Dog Academy

Do you dream of waking up every day to wagging tails, sloppy kisses, and a job you actually love? If so, working with dogs might just be your calling—and dog training could be the perfect fit.

Not only can you turn your passion for dogs into a fulfilling career, but you can also make a great living doing it. In fact, becoming a certified professional dog trainer is one of the most flexible and financially stable career paths in the pet industry today.

Why Dog Training is a Smart Career Choice

With dog ownership at an all-time high, more families than ever are investing in training to help their pups fit happily into family life. Dog training isn’t just about teaching “sit” and “stay”—it’s about improving lives, reducing stress, and building unshakable bonds between dogs and their humans.

Here’s why dog training is a recession-resistant and in-demand career:

✔ Growing Demand – Over 8.2 million pet dogs live in Canada, and their families are actively seeking behaviour support and obedience training.
✔ Flexible Career Paths – Work part-time or full-time, launch your own business, or join an established training facility.
✔ Multiple Income Streams – Offer private lessons, group classes, board & train programs, and more to diversify your revenue.

How Much Can You Earn?

Your income as a dog trainer depends on your location, experience, and services offered—but the earning potential is exciting. Even part-time trainers can make a comfortable living, while experienced trainers often earn six figures.

💰 Average Earnings for Certified Dog Trainers:

• Group Classes: $150–$200 per student for a 6-week course (6 students = $900–$1,200 per class)

• Private Training: $75–$150/hour for one-on-one sessions

• Walk & Train Services: $50–$100/session

• Board & Train Programs: $1,500–$3,500 per dog for 2–4 weeks

• Workshops & Seminars: $200–$500 per event

📈 Potential Weekly Earnings (Part-Time, 10–15 Hours):

• $750–$2,500+ per week

• $3,000–$10,000+ per month

Services That Boost Your Income

Once certified, you can offer a variety of services to suit your clients’ needs:

1️⃣ Group Training Classes – Great for teaching manners, obedience, and social skills.
2️⃣ Private Lessons – Tailored training for behaviour issues or busy schedules.
3️⃣ Walk & Train – Train while the owner is at work.
4️⃣ Board & Train Programs – Intensive, immersive learning for dogs.
5️⃣ Puppy Coaching – Helping new owners start off right.
6️⃣ Specialized Training – Aggression rehab, service dog work, scent detection, therapy dog prep, and more.

How to Get Started

The first step to making money as a dog trainer? Professional education and certification.

That’s where Good Dog Academy’s Professional Pet Dog Trainer (PPDT) Certificate Program comes in.

🎓 Why Students Choose Good Dog Academy:

• Recognized certification to boost your credibility

• Comprehensive education covering canine behaviour, training techniques, client relations, and business skills

• Flexible online learning so you can study from anywhere

• Expert mentorship from Jaime Knowles, with 25+ years in the industry

• Live webinars, hands-on coaching, and real-world assignments

• Affordable tuition at just $995—you can earn this back in as little as one month after graduating!

Your Dream Career is Waiting

There’s never been a better time to launch your career as a professional dog trainer. The demand is high, the work is deeply rewarding, and the income potential is real.

🚀 Start your journey today!
Enroll in the Good Dog Academy Professional Dog Trainer Certificate Program and turn your love for dogs into a thriving career.