Ep. 42 - Should You Quit Your 9–5 to Become a Dog Trainer? (Natalie Dobkins’ Story)

Nate Schoemer Dog Training Podcast

Thinking about leaving your 9–5 to become a professional dog trainer?
Natalie Dobkins did exactly that — and in this episode, she breaks down how and why she made the leap, plus what it really takes to build a sustainable dog training business.

Natalie (Team K9 Training) joins host Nate Schoemer for an honest, no-fluff conversation about transitioning out of the corporate world and into full-time dog training. They dive deep into the business foundations most trainers overlook, including LLC setup, pricing, marketing, client management, and how to avoid burnout in an unregulated industry.

This episode isn’t just about training dogs — it’s about building a career that lasts.

Whether you’re an aspiring dog trainer, a working professional considering a career shift, or an established trainer looking to tighten up your business systems, this episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately.

The Career Leap
What finally pushed Natalie to leave her corporate job and pursue dog training full-time.
Business Foundations for Dog Trainers
Why LLCs, finances, contracts, and structure matter before you ever take a leash.
Marketing & Client Acquisition
How to attract clients without feeling salesy — and when paid ads actually make sense.
Owner Education & Client Retention
Why training owners is just as important as training dogs.
Avoiding Burnout
Why “being the Walmart of dog training” destroys trainers — and how to set boundaries.
Scaling With Systems
How email automation, follow-ups, and streamlined programs free up your time.