You can get started by joining a 4-H club or taking your pet through classes at an obedience club. Just offer to help a neighbor, friend, or relative by taking care of a pet while they are on vacation or walking the dog once or twice a day. You can make a few dollars this way and learn about different kinds of dogs. Some trainers and veterinarians are also behaviorists who study dog reactions to their environment and help owners solve problems. Veterinary behaviorists are board-certified specialists.
Some psychologists also have degrees in animal behavior.
Trainers who advertise as behaviorists may specialize in problem-solving, but they generally do not have a college degree in animal behavior. Boarding kennels Boarding kennels offer another good opportunity for responsible young people to get involved with dogs. You can do everything from clean cages to feeding and walking dogs and can learn how to groom if the kennel also has a grooming shop. Boarding kennels require good business sense, an ability to work with people so clients will come back, attention to kennel maintenance, and above all, concern for the dogs. Boarding kennels are very busy during the summer and through school holidays, so may be the perfect opportunity to make some spending money while learning a trade.