Dog Training as a Career: How to Launch Your Business in 6 Weeks
- Brad Pattison
- May 17
- 4 min read
Why Dog Training Is a Great Post-Pandemic Career
The pandemic shifted how we live, work, and connect—not just with people but with our pets. Dog adoptions soared, remote work became the norm, and millions re-evaluated their careers. If you’ve ever wondered about dog training as a career, now is the perfect time to act.
Becoming a certified dog trainer offers more than just a job. It’s a meaningful path where you help dogs and humans thrive—while building a flexible, lucrative business on your own terms. At Hustle Up Dog Trainers Academy, we train future dog pros to launch their own businesses in just 6 weeks. No fluff. Just results.
What It Takes to Succeed as a Dog Trainer
Dog lovers are everywhere—but loving dogs isn’t enough. If you're serious about making dog training a career, here’s what you need to succeed:
1. Strong Communication Skills
Dog training is 50% about dogs, 50% about people. You’ll coach pet owners, manage expectations, and guide families through behavioural changes. You need empathy, patience, and clear communication.
2. Dog Behaviour Knowledge
Understanding canine body language, breed tendencies, and behaviour theory is non-negotiable. This isn’t about teaching tricks—it’s about solving problems.
3. Business Mindset
If your goal is to start a dog training business and be your own boss dog trainer, then marketing, pricing, client management, and branding must be part of your toolkit. You can’t help dogs if no one can find you.
4. Confidence with All Dog Types
From nervous rescues to strong-willed working breeds, a successful trainer must be confident, calm, and adaptable with every personality that walks through the door.
The good news? You don’t have to figure this all out alone.
How Hustle Up Prepares You for a Real Career
We built the Hustle Up Dog Trainers Academy for one reason: to help you go from dog lover to professional dog trainer in six weeks.
Our program blends three critical pillars:
📚 1. Behaviour Theory That Works in the Real World
We cut through the fluff and teach you proven training methods that work in everyday situations—off-leash, in homes, around distractions, and with zero treats. Our trainers are field-tested pros who work with real families and real dogs every day.
💼 2. Business Acumen to Get You Clients Fast
Too many training programs forget the business side. At Hustle Up, you’ll learn:
How to attract your ideal clients with zero ad spend
Pricing strategies that reflect your value
What to put on your website and Google Business profile
How to turn one client into ten through referrals
In short: we teach you how to start a dog training business that thrives.
🐕 3. Hands-On Experience with Real Dogs and Real People
You’ll work directly with families, pets, and trainers in Vancouver, Calgary, or Toronto. No simulations. No theory-only nonsense. We believe in immersion—and we deliver it.
“I was leading training sessions before I graduated. The confidence I gained in six weeks was unreal.” — Ali B., Class of 2023
Income Potential and Work-Life Freedom
Let’s talk numbers. What can you really make as a certified dog trainer?
Entry-level: $35,000–$55,000/year in your first 12 months
Experienced solo trainer: $75,000–$100,000+/year
Group program trainers or team leads: $120,000+
Academy alumni with strong referral networks: $150,000+ and climbing
Many of our grads hit six figures within 18 months—not by overworking, but by creating high-value services, setting boundaries, and running smart businesses.
And unlike corporate jobs, dog training as a career gives you freedom. You can:
Set your own schedule
Train outdoors, at coffee shops, or in clients’ homes
Take breaks for travel or family
Choose the clients you want to work with
If you’ve ever dreamed of being your own boss, living a life you love, and making an impact, dog training is the vehicle—and Hustle Up is the engine.
Alumni Spotlight: From Student to 6-Figure Dog Trainer
Meet Jordan K., a former barista who turned her side passion into a powerhouse business.
“Before Hustle Up, I had no idea how to make dog training into an actual career. I just loved dogs. But within a month, I was running sessions, building my brand, and booking out my calendar.”
Her advice to new students?
“Say yes to the process, show up for the work, and trust Hustle Up. This program changed my life.”
Your Next Step: Book a Free Call with Hustle Up
If you’re ready to stop dreaming and start doing, here’s your next move:
👉 Book your free discovery call now
We’ll walk you through:
What it takes to become a certified Hustle Up trainer
Which location and cohort fits your schedule
How to build a business that pays you back
Enrolment is limited and cohorts fill fast. If you're serious about launching your dog training business in 6 weeks, this is the moment.
Helpful Resources
How to Become a Certified Dog Trainer in BC (Blog)
Group and Private Dog Training in Vancouver
Treat-Free Dog Training Explained
Final Word
Dog training as a career isn’t just a dream—it’s a demand. The pet industry is booming, and skilled trainers are in short supply. Whether you’re coming from hospitality, retail, teaching, or tech, you can take your love of dogs and turn it into a real business.
Comments