I want to be a dog trainer!

I would love to pursue a career in dog training but there are so many courses to choose from I was just hoping someone could recommend a respected company in the UK to me, I just don't want to waste time and money on a course that wouldn't benefit dogs and would make dog owners apprehensive about hiring me.

I would be extremely grateful for any information, thank you..

What skills, knowledge, ability, training and experience do you already have?

I've had dogs all my life up to a year ago and I'm very passionate about dogs so I have experience but only know the basics in training them..

I think a mix of distance learning theory plus practical workshops would be the way to go.

Have you asked to shadow a local reputable trainer?

Look here

http://www.compass-education.co.uk/o.../Dog%20courses

http://www.alphapets.f9.co.uk/courses.html

Hi Ihave trained dogs most of my life,German Sheperds,Labs and Springers to sell on to the police and private sector.I learned from quite a few people but have never gone on any course.

The Bishop Burton Foundation Degree course in canine behaviour and training is a good one if you can afford it.

Basically a good mix of theory and practicals

Once completed, there's also the option of going on to take the BSc

Very interesting courses, think I better start saving...

Thanks for your help everyone, you've given me a lot of options to consider..

I'm doing the Compass Advanced Diploma in Canine Behaviour Management at the moment. It's really good so far, I'd certainly recommend them as a course provider. Good luck!

The Kennel Club do an accredited trainer course. You have to have at least 5 years experience of training before you can be assessed. You have meet their criteria, how you do it is up to you. It doesn't cost much and is aiming to be the industry standard. they are the only qualification approved by C&G of London.
http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/kcai/

I'm currently doing the canine aggression course through Compass. I have mixed feelings about it. It claims to be HND level, but it is very far from that, in my opinion.