Animal Trainers

About the Role

Animal trainers work to teach animals specific behaviors and commands for various purposes, including obedience, entertainment, and assistance.

Other Common Titles

  • Animal Behavior Specialist
  • Dog Trainer
  • Pet Trainer
  • Service Animal Trainer
  • Equine Trainer
  • Wildlife Trainer
  • Zoological Trainer

Typical Tasks

  • Assessing animals' behavioral traits and creating customized training plans.
  • Implementing training techniques using methods such as positive reinforcement.
  • Socializing animals to ensure they can interact comfortably with humans and other animals.
  • Teaching animals basic commands and specialized tasks based on their intended role.
  • Monitoring animals during training sessions to ensure they are comfortable and learning effectively.
  • Providing guidance to clients on how to maintain training at home.
  • Keeping records of animals’ progress and modifying training techniques as needed.
  • Continuing education on animal behavior and training methods to stay current with best practices.

Notable People

  • Cesar Millan Known as 'The Dog Whisperer,' Millan gained fame for his effective dog training techniques and television series.
  • Jack Hanna A renowned zookeeper and wildlife expert, Hanna is famous for his work in animal education and public awareness.
  • Barbara Woodhouse A pioneer in dog training, she emphasized the importance of obedience training and authored multiple training books.

Recommended Resources

  • The Culture Clash

    This book by Jean Donaldson offers a humorous yet insightful look at dog behavior and training.

  • Dog Trainer's Resource

    A comprehensive online resource for dog trainers with articles, techniques, and community collaboration.

  • Animal Training Academy

    Provides courses on various animal training techniques and behavior modification strategies.

  • The Animal Training Podcast

    A podcast dedicated to exploring the diverse world of animal training through interviews and educational content.