How much does an animal trainer make?

Trainers may start by feeding or exercising animals and checking for signs of illness, then practice cues with a dog, horse, or other animal. They clean or maintain the training area and record each animal’s health, food, and behavior.

Did you know? Some U.S. animal trainers work with Navy dolphins, which are trained to find and mark underwater mines.

In the U.S., animal trainers usually finish high school or an equivalent program, then build hands-on experience with animals and learn on the job from an experienced trainer. Courses or certificates can help; marine-mammal jobs often call for a related bachelor’s degree.

School needed: High school plus some training

Good for people who like building and doing and helping and teaching

Why does pay differ?

In the United States, animal trainers may earn more with experience, useful certificates, or in-demand skills; employer type and location also matter. Part-time hours can change total pay, and reputation may count in specialties such as training winning horses.