With a third of South Dakota’s households having at least one dog, it’s a safe bet there’s going to be a need for dog trainers no matter which corner of the state you live in.
Whether you’re in a rural town like Hot Springs or a big city like Sioux Falls, there’s never been a better time to launch a dog training career. With the pet population increasing and the pet industry recording record spending, dog trainers across the country. are benefiting. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports animal jobs are projected to continue growing for the next several years.
Animal Behavior College Recognized by Top Pet Industry and News Sources
Becoming a Dog Trainer in South Dakota
There’s a lot to learn if you want to become a dog obedience trainer. You need to understand how dogs learn, study behavior-modification techniques, know how to effectively use the tools of the trade (clickers, training treats, harnesses, crates, etc.), recognize canine characteristics and personalities, master training principles, and learn how to plan problem solving strategies.
Getting certified is a great way to begin your training career, but it’s unlikely that you live near a brick and mortar school for dog obedience trainers. Don’t give up, though. Animal Behavior College has been teaching people to become dog trainers online for over two decades.
With ABC, you can enroll wherever you live, whenever you like. As long as you have reliable internet service, you can enroll anytime you like.
The program takes about a year to complete. Once you’re certified, you have the option of working for an established company or working for yourself–dog training is ideal if you want to start your own business or have an awesome side hustle!
Dog Trainer Career Earning Potential in California
Dog Trainer Career Earning Potential
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Academy of Pet Careers, Indeed.com and Talent.com 2024. Hourly rates may vary in your area.
Dog Trainer Career Earning Potential in Texas
Dog Trainer Career Earning Potential in Virginia
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Academy of Pet Careers, Indeed.com and Talent.com 2024. Own Your Own Business earnings statistics reference the prices charged in 2025 for private in-person dog training lessons, based on what multiple companies charge across various cities in the specified state. Hourly rates may vary in your area.
Getting Dog Training Experience
You’re probably wondering, “How do I learn dog training without practicing on actual dogs?”
ABC solved that problem a long time ago. We’ve developed a huge network of mentor partners-professional trainers who live throughout the United States. Once a student has finished the online coursework, we pair him or her with a local mentor for invaluable real world experience. The “externship” requires at least 15 hours with your mentor.
Our students gain confidence in their abilities as they practice their skills alongside a professional trainer.
Don't Just Take Our Word For It
South Dakota Needs More Dog Trainers
By becoming a dog trainer, you could help dogs in South Dakota become good citizens and live happier, safer lives.
Check out the ABC Dog Obedience Program today. Call 1-800-795-3294 to speak to an admissions counselor. Just imagine: within a year, you could be working as a certified dog trainer!
