How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
- specialised training with a professional body
University
You could take a degree that includes the study of animal behaviour, though it is not essential. Relevant courses include:
- animal behaviour and welfare
- animal management
- zoology with animal behaviour
If you want to become a member of a recognised professional or industry body you should check their preferred degree subject requirements.
As well as your degree, you will also need knowledge of different types of animals and animal breeds, and some experience of animal handling and training.
Postgraduate qualifications in subjects like animal welfare and behaviour, or applied animal behaviour and welfare, are also available.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could take a course at college that would give you some of the skills and knowledge you need to start in an animal care role. From there, you could work towards further qualifications in animal behaviour.
Courses include:
- animal care
- companion animal behaviour and training
- practical animal care skills
- canine welfare, training and behaviour
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an Animal Training Instructor Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.
This takes around 2 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start out as an animal care assistant, with:
- a dog kennels
- a vet's practice
- a riding stables
- an animal welfare centre
With experience and the support of your employer, you may be able to train on the job to become a pet behaviour consultant.
Volunteering
Voluntary work with an animal welfare organisation, veterinary surgery or a pet rescue centre can be a useful way to get experience. This could help when you're looking for paid positions.
You can find out about volunteering opportunities from:
Other Routes
You can find specialist courses on animal behaviour with animal welfare and training organisations. It may help to work towards national standards or membership of a professional body, such as:
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Further information
You can get more advice about working in pet behaviour through the: