Apprentice Animal Trainer

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.

Future demand Medium
Average yearly income $49,920
Skill level Beginner

How do I become a apprentice animal trainer?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
Recommended
ACM20121

Certificate II in Animal Care
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  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
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ACM40418

Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
12 - 24 months
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  • Completed Certificate III (AQF Level 3) or above in an animal science discipline OR
  • Completed Certificate II in Animal Studies or equivalent qualifications OR
  • Evidence of relevant skills, knowledge and employment experience
Additional requirements may apply.
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  • Completed Certificate III (AQF Level 3) or above in an animal science discipline OR
  • Completed Certificate II in Animal Studies or equivalent qualifications OR
  • Evidence of relevant skills, knowledge and employment experience
Additional requirements may apply.
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ACM30122

Certificate III in Animal Care Services
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
9 - 21 months
$0 - $12,978
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
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Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour)
On Campus
3 years
$0 - $32,100
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
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ACM40322

Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training
Blended, On Campus, Online
12 - 20 months
$0 - $22,166
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
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Cattery Attendant Animal Control Officer Apprentice Animal Trainer Assistant Dog Trainer
+ 4 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Animal Trainer Animal Behaviourist Zoo Keeper Cattery Attendant Animal Control Officer Apprentice Animal Trainer Assistant Dog Trainer + 4 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Assistant Dog Trainer

An Assistant Dog Trainer uses various strategies to train dogs in obedience or behaviour modification, working with both pets and service animals.

Avg yearly income $52,000
Skill level Beginner

Animal Trainer

An Animal Trainer teaches commands and behaviours to various animals, educates owners on training strategies, and requires patience, skill, and communication.

Avg yearly income $65,000
Skill level Beginner

Animal Behaviourist

An Animal Behaviourist identifies and addresses behavioural issues in animals, creating training programmes while advising owners on effective solutions.

Avg yearly income $78,520
Skill level Advanced

Dog Trainer

A Dog Trainer teaches dogs and their owners new behaviours and skills, addressing issues like aggression or social skills while requiring patience and strong communication.

Avg yearly income $69,940
Skill level Beginner

Common questions

How much does an Apprentice Animal Trainer earn?

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.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

What are the job opportunities for an Apprentice Animal Trainer?

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

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How do I become an Apprentice Animal Trainer?

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.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

Further reading

How to start a career in Dog Training

26th August 2021)

Most popular animal welfare and veterinary courses

12th April 2022)

What can you do with a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment?

10th September 2020)

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