1

Certified Dog Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Position Overview As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their ...

Showing results 21-40

Certified Dog Trainer information

See salary details

$11

$20

$33

How much do certified dog trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified dog trainer in the United States is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a certified dog trainer?

A Certified Dog Trainer is a professional who has completed specialized education and training in canine behavior, learning theory, and obedience techniques, and has passed certification exams from recognized organizations. These trainers work with dogs and their owners to address behavior issues, teach commands, and improve the overall relationship between pets and people. Certification ensures that the trainer meets industry standards for knowledge and humane training methods, giving clients confidence in their expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified dog trainer?

To excel as a Certified Dog Trainer, you need a solid understanding of canine behavior, learning theory, and training methodologies, typically supported by certification from organizations like the CCPDT or APDT. Familiarity with positive reinforcement tools, clickers, and training software is often utilized in the role. Patience, effective communication, and strong interpersonal skills help trainers work successfully with both dogs and their owners. These competencies are essential for ensuring safe, effective training outcomes and fostering positive relationships with clients.

What are some common challenges faced by certified dog trainers in their daily work?

Certified Dog Trainers often encounter challenges such as working with dogs that have behavioral issues, building trust with nervous or aggressive animals, and communicating effectively with pet owners to ensure training consistency at home. Additionally, trainers must adapt their techniques to suit different breeds, temperaments, and learning speeds. Success in this role requires patience, strong observational skills, and the ability to educate and motivate both dogs and their owners to achieve positive results.

What is the difference between Certified Dog Trainer vs Professional Dog Trainer?

AspectCertified Dog TrainerProfessional Dog Trainer
CertificationsTypically requires certification from organizations like CCPDT or APDTMay or may not hold formal certifications; focus on experience and skills
Work EnvironmentDog training centers, pet stores, private homes, sheltersSimilar settings, often including private training sessions and group classes
Industry UsageRecognized credential in the industry, often preferred by clientsGeneral term for practitioners, may or may not be certified

Certified Dog Trainers have formal certifications that validate their expertise, often making them more recognized in the industry. Professional Dog Trainers may have extensive experience but might not hold official credentials. Both roles work in similar environments, but certification can influence client trust and job opportunities.

Can you make a living off certified dog training?

Certified dog trainers can make a living by offering private lessons, group classes, or working for training facilities, with income varying based on experience, location, and client base. Successful trainers often build a reputation, obtain certifications, and develop skills in behavior modification and obedience training to increase earning potential.

How do you get to be a certified dog trainer?

To become a certified dog trainer, individuals typically complete a professional training program that covers behavior, training techniques, and animal welfare, and then obtain certification from a recognized organization such as the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) or the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP). Experience working with dogs and strong communication skills are also important for success in this field.

Is there a demand for certified dog trainers?

The demand for certified dog trainers is growing as pet ownership increases and owners seek professional help for training and behavior issues. Certification and experience can improve job prospects, especially in urban and suburban areas with active pet communities.

What kind of certified dog trainers make the most money?

Experienced certified dog trainers who specialize in advanced training, behavior modification, or work with high-end clients tend to earn higher salaries. Trainers with additional certifications, such as CPDT-KA or KPA CTP, and those operating their own businesses or working in affluent areas often have higher income potential.
More about Certified Dog Trainer jobs

What cities are hiring for Certified Dog Trainer jobs?

Cities with the most Certified Dog Trainer job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Certified Dog Trainer jobs?

The top employers for Certified Dog Trainer jobs are:

What states have the most Certified Dog Trainer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Certified Dog Trainer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Certified Dog Trainer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Certified Dog Trainer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Certified Dog Trainer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,965 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Dog Trainer

Petco

Fayetteville, AR • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Petco rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 640 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

459th of 739 rated retailers


Job description

Want to help pets live their best lives?


We're proud to be where the pets go and where thepet peoplego. If you want to make a real difference, create an exciting career path, feel welcome to be your whole self and nurture your wellbeing,Petco is the place for you.


Our core values capture that spirit as we work to improve lives by doing what's right for pets and people.


  • Pet First - Protect & Empower.All pets shouldLive their Best Life.We put the needs of pets and pet parents at the center of everything we do.

  • Foster the Fun - Connect & Bond.OurPassionfor pets brings us together! We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services.

  • Let's Go! Own & Commit.We are stronger asOne Petco team.We bring our unique superpowers and champion authenticity in everyone to drive success.

About Petco:


We're proud to be"where the pets go"to find everything they need to live their best lives for more than 60 years - from their favorite meals and toys, to trusted supplies and expert support from people who get it, because we live it. We believe in the universal truths of pet parenthood - the boundless boops, missing slippers, late night zoomies and everything in between. And we're here for it. Every tail wag, every vet visit, every step of the way. We are29,000+strong and together we nurture the pet-human bond in more than1,500Petco stores across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico,250+Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics and eight distribution centers. In 1999, we foundedPetco Love. Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately7 million animalsthrough in-store adoption events.

Position Overview

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their dog companions. Your expertise in modern dog training techniques and positive reinforcement methods will help pet parents develop well-behaved, happy, and healthy dogs. You will provide one-on-one training sessions, group classes, and offer advice on basic training, environmental management, and customized training plans to address specific training goals. In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the health and wellness of pets by providing recommendations on healthy nutrition, world class services and essential supplies.

Position Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

The Dog Trainer role consists of 2 core responsibilities:

Provide World Class Dog Training Services

  • Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor.
  • Complete all assigned Workday Learning modules and DTIP Student Workbook materials per the DTIP roadmap.
  • Recommend and sell appropriate dog training classes, training, and supplies to ensure pet parents and their dogs have the necessary resources for a successful dog training experience.
  • Keep accurate records of training sessions, progress, and pet parents' feedback.
  • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
  • Work cross functionally with the grooming and veterinary teams to provide holistic whole health solutions for all pet parents.
  • Complete and apply ongoing training programs to maintain a high level of expertise in the role.

Provide 360-Degree Solutions for all Petco Guests

  • Provide an outstanding guest experience by actively engaging with guests in the recommendation and selection of merchandise and services in accordance with their identified needs.
  • Generate future business through a deep understanding of the guest and their pet(s) and connection to our digital platforms.
  • Demonstrate a high level of awareness and knowledge for the health, welfare, and proper handling of all animals.
  • Perform related duties to support the Pet Care Center in achieving its performance goals.
  • Ensure merchandise is stocked, priced, and displayed to enhance the shopping experience for pet parents.
  • Complete cash register transactions and support guests with their OMNI shopping experience as needed.
  • Adhere to established operational guidelines, policies, and procedures.
  • Promote a positive culture of teamwork, inclusion, and collaboration.
  • Complete other duties and special projects as assigned.
  • Evaluate guest inquiries and refer to the Leader on Duty as needed.

Other Essential Duties

  • UTILIZE SELLING BEHAVIORS. You're the key to providing an amazing guest experience within our Pet Care Center Locations. Utilizing the behaviors within our Sales Model is critical to being able to identify and solve for their needs both today and in the future.
  • CONTRIBUTE TO A SAFE ENVIRONMENT. You'll be empowered through our training programs to maintain our safety protocols. Bottom line, the safety of partners, guests and pets is our #1 priority.
  • BE A PART OF A COLLABORATIVE CULTURE. Being a great teammate is key to creating a culture that is centered around solving for the health and wellness needs of pets.
  • ENGAGE IN YOUR CAREER. As you develop your skills and knowledge, you will have the opportunity to participate in developmental programs to support your continued growth throughout your career.

Certification Requirements

  • Stage 1: All candidates are required to complete the 'Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP)' to become Petco Certified Dog Trainer consisting of the following:
    • Dog Training Apprentice: 6-weeks weeks of instructor led learning and development.
  • Stage 2: Dog Trainer: Successfully run and grow the dog training business in one of Petco's Pet Care Centers with local and national marketing support, with access to internal partner resources, networking, and client acquisition through our state-of-the-art online booking and scheduling systems.
  • Stage 3: Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.
  • Note: Approved candidates with prior experience that can pass both skill and knowledge assessments may be eligible for accelerated training.

Basic Qualifications

  • Passion for animal care, training, and welfare and a genuine interest for improving the lives of pets and their pet parents.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with pet parents and provide clear instructions, demonstrations and applicable selling techniques.
  • Demonstrated ability to handle and work with dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds in a safe and humane manner.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities effectively.
  • Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed to accommodate the training schedule and store operations.
  • Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift heavy objects (up to 50 pounds) associated with dog training equipment and supplies.
  • Familiarity with computer systems and software to manage training records, schedules, and communication with pet parents.

Supervisory Responsibility

  • None

Starting Rate:

$14.00

To translate this webpage to Spanish or other languages on your internet browser click the translate button to the right of your browser address bar. Additional instruction can be found here: https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/173424?hl=en-GB&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop

Para traducir esta pagina web al espanol u otros idiomas en su navegador de Internet, haga clic en el boton de traduccion a la derecha de la barra de direcciones de su navegador. Puede encontrar instrucciones adicionales aqui:

https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/173424?hl=en-GB&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop


What Petco employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom