3 answers
Shannon
Student
Richardson, Texas
1
Question
Updated
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How can I get financial assistance or a grant for dog training school? And does anyone know a good dog training school in the Dallas, TX or Richardson, TX area? Also, can I become a dog trainer if I have a criminal background?
I am a 57 yr old woman in recovery with a passion for dogs and people.
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3 answers
Walker White
1
Answer
California City, California
Updated
Walker’s Answer
When I started looking into dog training schools, I had the same questions about cost and eligibility. For financial help, I found that local workforce programs, community grants, and some nonprofit animal organizations can offer support or reduced tuition. A few schools also provide payment plans or assistant roles that let you learn while working.
In the Dallas and Richardson area, I researched several options and learned about Prestige K9, which seems well regarded for hands on, professional training. As for having a criminal background, from what I have seen, it does not automatically stop you from becoming a dog trainer. Many trainers focus more on skill, consistency, and reliability. Being honest, gaining certifications, and building experience really helps.
In the Dallas and Richardson area, I researched several options and learned about Prestige K9, which seems well regarded for hands on, professional training. As for having a criminal background, from what I have seen, it does not automatically stop you from becoming a dog trainer. Many trainers focus more on skill, consistency, and reliability. Being honest, gaining certifications, and building experience really helps.
Green Smith
1
Answer
Coventry, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Green’s Answer
For financial assistance or a grant for dog training school, start with local workforce programs, community college funding, veteran benefits (if eligible), and payment plans offered by reputable schools. For a good option in Dallas or Richardson, choose a program with hands-on coaching, clear curriculum, and verified reviews, then compare course outcomes and job placement support. Many people still become a dog trainer dallas even with a criminal background, but you may need extra transparency for insurance, client trust, and facility access. Consider starting with dog obedience training dallas certifications and apprenticeships to build credibility.
Michelle M.
Actress
3276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi, Shannon !
I admire that you want to pursue a career helping and working with dogs. It will be most rewarding, fun and always interesting so it's great that you've reached out for information.
There is no financial aid or grants to learn dog training. The dog training opportunities are not colleges, rather private run schools, so there's no real financial assistance to pay for your training. The schools, however, do sometimes receive grants to put towards their operations and run the training. There is a training program in Dallas called Sit Means Sit and one called All Dogs Unleashed. I have left their links below to their websites. You can visit them in person and inquire about being trained as a trainer. You can also contact the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and inquire about the certifications that they offer.
There is another place that you can call for information about learning dog training. It is called Proven K9 Training and the phone number is (806) 410-0374. You need to find out how much your training will cost, it may be doable. This career is something that you will want to learn in person, hands on, and then there are always online courses that you can take to expand your knowledge. Also, do a search for Starmark Academy for Professional Dog Trainers which is a trade school offering study for 4 weeks, or 8 weeks or 12 weeks, and look into Animal Behavioral College - Texas Dog Trainers an online program.
Do not worry about your criminal background much. I think as a Dog Trainer, you will be freelancing, working for yourself so it may not be an issue.
I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best !
SIT MEANS SIT DOG TRAINING https://sitmeanssitdallas.com/
ALL DOGS UNLEASHED DOG TRAINING https://www.alldogsunleashed.com/
THE ASSOCIATION OF PROFESSIONAL DOG TRAINERS INFORMATION AND CERTIFICATIONS https://apdt.com/education/
HOW TO BECOME A DOG TRAINER - THE AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/how-to-become-a-dog-trainer/
STARMARK ACADEMY FOR PROFESSIONAL DOG TRAINERS https://www.schoolfordogtrainers.com/
I admire that you want to pursue a career helping and working with dogs. It will be most rewarding, fun and always interesting so it's great that you've reached out for information.
There is no financial aid or grants to learn dog training. The dog training opportunities are not colleges, rather private run schools, so there's no real financial assistance to pay for your training. The schools, however, do sometimes receive grants to put towards their operations and run the training. There is a training program in Dallas called Sit Means Sit and one called All Dogs Unleashed. I have left their links below to their websites. You can visit them in person and inquire about being trained as a trainer. You can also contact the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and inquire about the certifications that they offer.
There is another place that you can call for information about learning dog training. It is called Proven K9 Training and the phone number is (806) 410-0374. You need to find out how much your training will cost, it may be doable. This career is something that you will want to learn in person, hands on, and then there are always online courses that you can take to expand your knowledge. Also, do a search for Starmark Academy for Professional Dog Trainers which is a trade school offering study for 4 weeks, or 8 weeks or 12 weeks, and look into Animal Behavioral College - Texas Dog Trainers an online program.
Do not worry about your criminal background much. I think as a Dog Trainer, you will be freelancing, working for yourself so it may not be an issue.
I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
This was super helpful, thank you!
Shannon
You are very welcome, Shannon !
Michelle M.