If you want to become a dog trainer in Australia, the first step is getting the right training. But depending on your career goals whether that’s running puppy classes, working with behavioural issues, or specialising in assistance dog training – there are a few different ways to get started.
All proper training pathways include a mix of theory and hands-on work. You can’t learn to train dogs from behind a screen alone – you need in-person guidance, expert feedback, and real-world practice.
Here’s a clear breakdown of how to get into the industry, what training options are out there, and how to build the skills you’ll actually use.
- What Does a Dog Trainer Actually Do?
A good dog trainer helps dogs and people work better together. That includes everything from teaching basic manners and recall to helping owners deal with more serious behaviour problems like reactivity or separation anxiety.
Depending on your path, you could:
- Run puppy and obedience classes
- Offer one-on-one consults for behaviour issues
- Train assistance dogs for people with physical or mental health conditions
- Work in settings like schools, hospitals, or aged care homes handling therapy dogs
You’ll need solid communication skills, patience, a deep understanding of how dogs learn, and the confidence to guide both animals and humans.
- Choose the Right Course for Your Goals
There’s no one-size-fits-all course – it depends on what kind of work you want to do. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Certificate IV in Dog Training
This is the main qualification if you want to become a professional dog trainer. It includes detailed online modules and two structured in-person practical training blocks. The online theory covers behaviour, training methods, ethics, and client communication. The practical component is where you apply that knowledge by working with real dogs, under expert supervision.
Specialisation in Assistance Dog Training
Only available after completing foundational training. This is for people who want to train dogs to support individuals with disabilities – such as mobility, epilepsy, or psychiatric conditions. It’s more advanced and requires significant hands-on experience.
Dog Handler Course
This isn’t a trainer course. It’s for people who need to handle trained dogs in everyday environments – for example, teachers, school staff, or aged care workers. It covers safety, animal welfare, legal responsibilities, and practical handling skills, but not behaviour training.
Important to note: none of these are online-only. While online modules help cover theory in a flexible way, every proper course includes real-life training with experienced mentors. You can’t learn to train dogs by watching videos alone – and any course that tells you otherwise isn’t worth your money.
3. Get Hands-On Experience That Actually Counts
Training dogs is a practical skill. You need to work with different breeds, behaviours, and environments. That’s why the practical blocks in the Certificate IV and other courses are critical – and not optional. You’ll also learn how to run training sessions, read dog body language in real time, and deal with unpredictable situations that online learning simply can’t simulate.
- What Happens After You’re Qualified?
Once you’ve completed your course and built up some experience, you’ve got a few different paths to explore:
- Start your own business offering group classes or private training
- Work under an experienced trainer or academy to build further skills
- Specialise in behaviour modification or assistance dog work
- Offer dog training services within schools, aged care or health programs
Just like any profession, success takes time and consistency. But with proper training and a bit of business sense, dog training can be a reliable, flexible, and rewarding career.
If you’re thinking about making this your career, don’t waste time on shortcuts. Choose a course with practical training, expert support, and a clear structure. Online modules can help you learn the theory, but working with real dogs is where the real learning happens.
Want help figuring out which course fits your goals? Reach out – we’re happy to talk through your options.
👉 Learn More About the Cert IV in Animal Behaviour & Training