Need advice re changing career to become a dog trainer

[tiptop2]

Hi,

Just wondering if someone can give me some advice re dog training as a career. Been thinking about it for a while. work in corporate world but looking to change track and always been interested in dog training.

Can anyone recommend courses to go on? What qualifications I should have?

Any other advice you can offer?

Anyone changed career to become a dog trainer and regret it or alternatively think it's the best thing they ever did?!

Based in London but can travel for courses.

thanks so much

I know this sounds really basic, but do you actually do any dog training yourself at the moment? Things like agility, KC GC classes, competitive obedience? There's a lot you can do while still doing the day job and this will give you a flavour/build up contacts/think about the finances etc. Think the Kennel Club have info on their site on how to become an CGC examiner - that might be a good way in to start with.

I would also look at building up your experience by doing things like fostering for rescues, PAT dogs (they also need assessors) etc etc.

Thanks Scuttle. I have a 3 year old dog who I've had since a puppy. He has been really troublesome and I've learnt so much over the time but I also realise he's now quite a good dog, so it's inspired me to re-think careers and also look for new challenges. All your suggestions great. We've done some agility but not much else at this stage. Will look further into this. I can't really take on another dog fostering as can't have more than one dog in my flat but I do help out a local animal shelter when I can although they don't need me that often as I can't commit to regular hours. Will look at KC website as a start.

Not looking to change careers immediately but want to start building up my experience/quals etc.