If you are ready to begin growing your training business, there are a number of resources you may find helpful in guiding you to professional success. Here are a few of my personal favorites:
DogTec: DogTec is a wonderful organization founded by Veronica Boutelle. DogTec offers consulting services, educational materials, workshops, class curriculums and handouts, web development services, customized marketing materials, and a wonderful free newsletter. DogTec offers business support for a variety of dog professionals including trainers, dog walkers, and pet sitters.
Karen Pryor Academy: a good portion of the Karen Pryor Academy program focuses on business development. Graduates of the Dog Training program have access to continuing business support through the graduate resource center.
Become a Professional Dog Trainer course from Raising Canine.
The Association of Pet Dog Trainers: The APDT prints an excellent journal for members which features great information about both the business and practice of dog training. Members have access to group insurance liability coverage, networking groups, and creation of listings in the trainer’s directory.
Local community and educational organizations: Many colleges, national, state or community sponsored business development organizations offer free or low-cost educational services.
Mentors: You have probably already selected a training mentor, but may want to find one or more business mentors as well. Contact individuals in your area with a successful small business. Offer to buy them lunch in exchange for guidance. This is a great way to learn and network at the same time!
Books: I really like the following books for trainers
Minding Your Dog Business: A Practical Guide to Business Success for Dog Professionals by Veronica Boutelle and Rikke Jorgensen
How to Run a Dog Business: Putting Your Career Where Your Heart Is by Veronica Boutelle
So You Want to Be a Dog Trainer by Nicole Wilde
One on One: A Dog Trainer’s Guide to Private Training by Nicole Wilde
It’s Not the Dogs, It’s the People by Nicole Wilde
Coaching People to Train Dogs by Terry Ryan
