Many pet dog trainers also provide training for competitive events such as ring craft for dog shows, advanced agility, heel work to music and flyball events. Some offer specialised training for gun dog working tests and instruction for field trial events.

Group classes are usually provided in rented venues such as church or community halls, in rural farm buildings or at venues in towns such as farm animal auction markets. One-to-one tuition is also provided, usually at the dog owner’s home. Some trainers run classes in parks and open spaces, although this is not typical.

Dog trainers’ customers are typically owners of young puppies or owners of older rescue dogs that have behavioural problems. As well as providing training, pet dog trainers often help owners to deal with specific problems such as excessive barking, chewing household items, separation anxiety, and aggression towards other dogs and people.

This profile provides information about starting up and running a pet dog training service. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support.