How long does it take to become an Animal Breeder?

Most animal breeders positions require high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training typically involves short-term on-the-job training. The exact timeline depends on your background — PathScorer can estimate your personal timeline.

How much does an Animal Breeder make?

The median annual salary is $52,000. Most earn between $43,310 (25th percentile) and $59,630 (75th percentile). The highest-paying metro is New York at $50,440.

Do I need a degree to become an Animal Breeder?

No — most animal breeders positions don't require a college degree. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically sufficient. Employers value short-term on-the-job training over formal education.

Can I become an Animal Breeder at 40?

Absolutely. Career changers bring transferable skills that can accelerate the transition. Since this career requires no college degree, the barrier to entry is lower than many occupations. See how your specific skills transfer.

What's the hardest part of becoming an Animal Breeder?

The most challenging aspect varies by person. Career changers often find that skills from their previous career transfer more than expected. PathScorer identifies which of your existing skills already apply.

How to Become an Animal Breeder in 2026

Median salary: $52,000 · +2.4% projected growth (2024–2034)

O*NET Code: 45-2021.00 · Data from O*NET & BLS · Updated March 2026

Median Salary

$52,000

annual wage

Job Growth

+2.4%

projected 2024–2034

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

typical entry

AI Exposure

51/100

exposure score

Section 01

What does an Animal Breeder do?

Select and breed animals according to their genealogy, characteristics, and offspring. May require knowledge of artificial insemination techniques and equipment use. May involve keeping records on heats, birth intervals, or pedigree.

Section 02

Animal Breeder Salary in 2026

The median annual salary for Animal Breeders is $52,000. The bottom 10% earn around $37,130 while the top 10% earn over $89,970.

Experience level	Annual salary
Entry-level (P10)	$37,130
Early career (P25)	$43,310
Median	$52,000
Experienced (P75)	$59,630
Top earners (P90)	$89,970

10th: $37,130Median: $52,00090th: $89,970

Highest-paying metros

New York

Highest paying

$50,440

top metro salary

Texas

$48,230

$-2,210 vs highest

Animal Breeder salary by state

State	Median salary
Ohiotop	$71,930
California	$58,240
New York	$50,440
Minnesota	$48,670
Idaho	$48,620
Texas	$48,230
Wisconsin	$45,840
Kentucky	$45,730
Alabama	$29,140

How to earn more as an Animal Breeder

The salary range for Animal Breeders spans $52,840 — from $37,130 at entry level to $89,970 for top earners. The highest-paying metro area is New York at $50,440 — $-1560 above the national median. Union membership, additional certifications, and supervisory experience are the most reliable paths to higher earnings in this field.

Section 03

How to get there

Typical education: High school diploma or equivalent
On-the-job training: Short-term on-the-job training

Starting from high school

Complete on-the-job training (short-term on-the-job training)
Earn industry-recognized certifications (industry-recognized certifications)
Complete OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour safety certification ($25–$200)
Gain 1–2 years of supervised work experience
Advance to journeyman level or specialized role

Most entry-level positions provide on-the-job training. Look for apprenticeship programs through unions, trade associations, or the Department of Labor's ApprenticeshipUSA program. Community colleges and vocational schools offer certificate programs that can be completed in 6–12 months. OSHA safety certifications are widely valued and often required.

3–12 months to start working, 2–4 years to journey level $0–$5K

Many employers provide paid training. Union apprenticeships are typically paid from day one. Trade school programs may require tuition.

Switching from another career

Assess which of your existing skills transfer (many do — see below)
Complete a short certification or orientation program (industry-recognized certifications)
Apply for entry-level or apprentice positions — highlight transferable skills
Complete any required on-the-job training (often shortened for experienced workers)
Advance faster than new entrants using your professional experience

Career changers are in demand across this field. Your existing professional skills — problem-solving, communication, time management, and work ethic — are valued by employers even if your technical skills are new. Many organizations offer orientation programs or short certification courses designed specifically for career changers. Contact industry associations, local unions, or community colleges for programs in your area.

1–6 months to start, faster advancement with prior experience $0–$3K

Certification costs are typically self-funded, but some employers reimburse. Union programs are paid positions.

Already working in another career?

See how your skills transfer to Animal Breeder — free. PathScorer maps your experience against the requirements and shows you what you already qualify for.

See how your skills transfer — free

Free to try No sign-up Based on O*NET data

Section 06

AI and automation outlook

51/100

The Animal Breeder role faces above-average AI exposure. Some tasks are increasingly automatable, but the role is evolving rather than disappearing.

See full AI risk breakdown

Section 07