How to become a dolphin trainer
Natalie Ross
Published Feb 25, 2026
How many years does it take to become a dolphin trainer?
Many trainers have undergraduate degrees in biology, marine biology, psychology, or animal behavior/animal science. A four year degree in a life sciences related field will give you a good starting point in terms of the necessary expertise and knowledge to be an effective dolphin trainer.How much do dolphin trainers get paid?
Dolphin Trainer Salary RangeThe Dolphin Research Center indicates that entry-level trainers typically earn between $18,000 and $20,000 per year and typically work a second job to support themselves. Experienced trainers can earn $25,000 – $40,000 per year and land full-time jobs that offer medical insurance.
Is a dolphin trainer a good job?
Dolphin trainers have a very rewarding job. They get to interact with some of the coolest animals on the planet. Dolphin trainers do many interesting things each day. Depending on the type of dolphin trainer you want to be (We’ll get to those types in a minute), you will have specific activities you will do each day.How much do dolphin trainers make a month?
Dolphin Trainer Salary| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $79,000 | $6,583 |
| 75th Percentile | $60,500 | $5,041 |
| Average | $46,437 | $3,869 |
| 25th Percentile | $25,000 | $2,083 |
What do dolphin trainers do?
As a Dolphin Trainer, you teach tricks and special behaviors to dolphins of all varieties. Dolphin Trainers can work for research facilities, aquariums, or resorts that specialize in animal performances. Tricks also help keep dolphins from getting bored.What is the salary of an animal trainer?
The average salary for an animal trainer in the United States is around $30,430 per year.What education do you need to be an animal trainer?
Qualifications for becoming an animal trainer usually include a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED). However, in some cases, a bachelor’s degree is required. For example, a marine mammal trainer must have a bachelor’s degree in biology, marine biology, animal science, or a related field.How long does it take to become an animal trainer?
For example, to earn the title of Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed with the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, you need to complete a minimum of 300 hours of experience training dogs in the last three years as well as pass a 180-question multiple-choice exam.What skills do you need to be an animal trainer?
The career requirements are lax, but you need a skill set that includes speaking, listening, critical thinking, decision making, time management, problem-solving, and customer service skills as well as physical stamina, compassion, and patience.How much money does an animal trainer make an hour?
Salary range| Level | Hourly | Yearly |
|---|---|---|
| Highest (Top 10%) | $27 | $55760 |
| Senior (Top 25%) | $20 | $40710 |
| Middle (Mid 50%) | $14 | $29290 |
| Junior (Bottom 25%) | $11 | $23310 |
What are two high school classes that will help you prepare for a career as an animal trainer?
Animal Trainers – Helpful High School Courses- Animal Science.
- Food and Nutrition.
- Psychology.
