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Animal Behaviorists

Earnings

Salaries for animal behaviorists depend, to a great extent on the type of employment they have, as well as the geographic location, responsibilities, experience, and education of the individual.

According to the Department of Labor, in 2023 individuals working in this field as animal scientists had median earnings of $70,140. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $46,240, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $162,000. Those working for farm product raw material merchant wholesalers earned the highest annual salaries, averaging $134,940, while those working for federal, state, and local governments earned the next highest salaries, averaging $125,900.

Individuals who are self-employed, such as those who go into people's homes to help train and modify behavior of family pets who exhibit destructive behavior, separation anxiety, excessive barking, or aggression may charge hourly fees ranging from $50 to $150 or more.