How Much to Tip Dog Trainers and When Should You NOT Tip Them

There are dozens of different types of dog training methods. How do you know which method is best for your pooch? Working with a professional dog trainer takes all of the stress out of this important task. Since this is such an important job, should you offer your trainer a gratuity? If so, you need to know how much to tip dog trainers.

Your dog trainer will come to your rescue and turn your rambunctious dog into a well-behaved pet. They will learn about your needs and observe your dog to decide which training method will be best suited for both of you. They’ll teach you how to work with your dog to train him in a manner that will foster the bond between the two of you.

Professional dog trainers charge you a fee, which you discuss ahead of time, but is that really enough? The short answer is no, but the long answer is – it depends. In some cases, the dog trainer will not receive 100% of that money. For example, if they work for a dog training facility, then similarly to dog groomers and dog sitters, they probably only receive a small percentage of the rate that you pay.

However, if a dog trainer works for themselves, they generally do get all the money. But then there are overhead costs that they will need to pay: training supplies, insurance and transportation costs. In some cases, the trainer only gets to pocket a fraction of the rate that you are charged for their services. Just like with many other hospitality and service providers, showing your appreciation by tipping your dog trainer is the least you can do.

How Much to Tip Dog Trainers?

First off, let me start by saying that I am not a professional dog trainer. However, I have sought the assistance of a dog trainer many times. I always tip a dog trainer to show her how much I appreciate her services. After all, she helps me train my dogs when it becomes too difficult and/or too time consuming to handle by myself.

With that being said, not all dog trainers will be a good fit for you and your pet. If you are using a new trainer and you’re not satisfied with their work, obviously there is no need to leave an additional tip.

It is important to have a lengthy discussion with any potential trainers before you hire them to ensure that you are both on the same page. You should ask them about their training methods, why they use that method and how they would handle a dog with the same difficult behaviors that your dog has. This will give you a good idea of what to expect, so there is a better chance that you’ll be satisfied after the first training session.

Now, the question is how much to tip dog trainers for a job well done. I recommend tipping about 15% of their training fee. This is a general standard tip for trainers. So if it costs you about $50 per training session, the tip would be approximately $7.50.

If this sounds like a lot to you, then tip what you can afford. If an extra 15% doesn’t fit in your budget, leave a tip that won’t break your bank. For example, some people leave a flat $5 tip per session regardless of the fee and no matter what the bill comes to.

At the end of the day, your dog trainer will appreciate whatever tip you can afford to leave. Tipping is a great way to ensure that your trainer will take good care of you and your pet in the future. When the dog trainer feels appreciated, they’ll likely provide an even better service in the future.

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