Those Wanting To Become Dog Trainers, This One Is For You

This one is a good one for budding Dog Trainers!

We've taken the time to interview Beth Walton at Wag Trail and Train, IMDT Dog Trainer and Sitter in Norfolk to understand the process of becoming a Dog Trainer and her specialist area! Let's dive in..

How long have you been a Dog Trainer, and how did you know you wanted to be a dog trainer? I've been a dog trainer for nearly a year now! My journey began about four years ago when I got my sprocker spaniel, Naboo. I immersed myself in books and followed numerous trainers online, but I quickly noticed a lot of conflicting advice and methods that didn’t sit right with me. That experience inspired me to start training in a way that aligned with my values—using positive reinforcement and taking a holistic approach to dog behaviour. For example, with loose lead walking, many owners see it as the problem behaviour, but the groundwork actually starts at home. It’s often influenced by factors such as diet, daily routines, exercise, lack of enrichment or breed-specific fulfilment, and even a dog’s underlying anxieties. What certifications or training programmes have you completed? Any recommendations? I completed my training with IMDT (The Institute of Modern Dog Training), which focuses on positive reinforcement. I’m an accredited dog trainer and am now working towards becoming a behaviourist. I highly recommend IMDT’s courses, whether you're aiming to become a dog trainer or just want to deepen your understanding of your own dog!

Do you specialise in specific types of training (e.g., obedience, behaviour modification, agility)? I specialise in basic dog training, puppy training, gundog training, and my personal favourite, tracking! I completed a four-day tracking course earlier this year, and it was incredible. Tracking teaches dogs to follow scents and really engage their noses, and it's a fantastic, enriching skill for them to learn.

What breeds have you worked with? Are there any breeds you specialise in or avoid? I love working with spaniels—they’re sweet-natured, full of energy, and have such drive. I enjoy helping owners channel that energy into the right outlets to make life more enjoyable for everyone. I genuinely love every breed but encourage owners to research breeds thoroughly to make sure they’re a good fit for their lifestyle.

For those wanting to become a dog trainer, what was the certification process like? (e.g., were there exams, mentoring, etc.) For IMDT certification, I completed a two-day online course followed by a four-day in-person ‘Practical Instructor Course.’ Then, I completed their Easy Peasy Puppy Instructor course, spent several months studying, and took the exams.

What do you love most about being a dog trainer? I love helping owners build a stronger connection with their dogs. Dog training is as much about teaching people as it is about training dogs, and I love seeing that “lightbulb moment” when an owner understands why their dog behaves a certain way. When humans make small changes, it often transforms the relationship.

Lastly, any advice you'd give those who wanted to start but haven't yet? Just go for it! Start by reading books, following like-minded trainers on social media, and signing up for courses. You won’t regret it!

If you ever need the sign to become a Dog Trainer, please take this one!