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An Apprentice Animal Trainer works with dogs and other animals to modify their behaviour or teach them to follow commands. You might work with one animal at a time or teach a group class like puppy preschool. You might help pet owners to train their animals or work with other organisations training therapy animals, law enforcement and security dogs or performance animals. You may also help to educate owners or handlers on the best way to manage their animals.
Apprentice Animal Trainers need to have excellent communication skills and be able to work well with animals and people. It can be a physically demanding role and you’ll need to be able to work a range of shifts. Apprentice Animal Trainers need a lot of patience and will need to be comfortable being with animals with all sorts of temperaments and behavioural issues. You'll need strong observational skills and an excellent understanding of animal behaviour.
In Australia, a full time Apprentice Animal Trainer generally earns $960 per week ($49,920 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
The number of animal attendants and trainers has fallen in recent years. There are currently 4,100 people in this industry in Australia and many are hired as Apprentice Animal Trainers. Apprentice Animal Trainers find work in all areas of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If you’re thinking of becoming an Apprentice Animal Trainer consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Animal Studies. This six month course covers all the topics you need to succeed in this industry such as animal health, nutrition and hygiene. You may also be able to specialise in areas such as animal behaviour or training.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within animal training. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Animal Training
Apprentice Animal Trainer
$960 weekly pay
Assistant Dog Trainer
Animal Behaviourist
$1,250 weekly pay
Animal Trainer
Dog Trainer
Learn more about Apprentice Animal Trainer courses in your area.