Dog Training Apprentice
Every great trainer starts somewhere.
If your dream is to become a professional dog trainer, this is where that journey begins.
We're looking for an Assistant Dog Trainer who is eager to learn the craft from the ground up. This position combines kennel care, dog handling, and hands-on training experience while preparing the right person to grow into a professional training role.
This is not just a kennel position.
It's an apprenticeship.
The daily care of our dogs is one of the most important parts of training. A clean environment, consistent routines, careful observation, and thoughtful handling all contribute to a dog's success. We believe great trainers understand every part of the process—not just what happens during formal training sessions.
What You'll Do
You'll play an important role in the daily care and success of our dogs by:
- Feeding and caring for dogs in our training program.
- Cleaning kennels and maintaining a safe, organized facility.
- Monitoring each dog's health, behavior, and well-being.
- Exercising and handling dogs appropriately.
- Assisting trainers during lessons and training sessions.
- Accompanying trainers on outings and socialization trips.
- Learning training techniques through observation and hands-on practice.
- Supporting the team wherever needed.
As your knowledge, handling skills, and reliability grow, so will your responsibilities.
Our goal is to develop future trainers from within whenever possible.
Who We're Looking For
We're searching for someone who is:
- Passionate about dogs and animal behavior.
- Hardworking and willing to do the less glamorous work because they understand it's part of becoming exceptional.
- Reliable, organized, and self-motivated.
- Curious and excited to learn every day.
- Coachable and receptive to constructive feedback.
- Patient, observant, and calm under pressure.
- Looking for a long-term career in dog training.
Experience We Value
Previous professional dog training experience is not required.
However, we're especially interested in applicants with experience such as:
- Working in dog daycare, boarding, shelters, veterinary clinics, or rescue organizations.
- Raising or training their own dogs.
- Participating in dog sports.
- Horse training, riding, competing, or stable management.
- Working with livestock or other animals.
If you've spent time around horses, you'll likely understand the discipline, consistency, attention to detail, and work ethic that this profession requires.
This Job Isn't Easy
You'll spend time cleaning kennels.
You'll work outdoors in different weather conditions.
You'll be on your feet most of the day.
You'll handle excited, messy, energetic dogs.
You'll receive coaching and be expected to keep improving.
If that sounds exciting rather than discouraging, you'll probably fit in well here.
What You'll Gain
You'll learn from experienced trainers while building the knowledge and handling skills needed for a successful career in dog training.
For the right person, this isn't a dead-end position—it's the first step toward becoming a professional trainer.
When You Apply
In addition to your résumé, tell us:
- Why you want to become a dog trainer.
- Any experience you've had with dogs, horses, or other animals.
- A book, trainer, podcast, or resource that has influenced the way you think about animals or training.
We're not looking for someone who simply wants to work with dogs.
We're looking for someone who wants to become an outstanding trainer.
Pay: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- On-the-job training
- Professional development assistance
Work Location: In person
