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Dog Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Pet Care Assistant works with the veterinary medical team to provide and prepare for the best ... e., dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, etc.) • Client needs and work volume may require more than 40 ...

Team Member

Ames, IA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

Does your cat wear sunglasses? Does your dog have more sweatersthan you? We call that ... * assist a neighbor in choosing the perfect toy for a lab who loves to fetch * stop to greet ...

Showing results 21-40

Dog Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$7

$17

$31

How much do dog assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog assistant in Iowa is $17.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.37 and $22.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by dog assistants in managing multiple dogs at once?

Dog Assistants often encounter the challenge of balancing the needs and temperaments of multiple dogs, especially when walking or caring for groups. Managing different energy levels, training backgrounds, and behavioral issues requires patience, keen observation, and strong communication skills. It’s important to stay alert, use proper equipment, and apply positive reinforcement techniques to maintain control and ensure the safety of all dogs in your care. Working closely with supervisors or pet owners for consistent routines and following established protocols also helps navigate these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Dog Assistant vs Dog Trainer?

AspectDog AssistantDog Trainer
CertificationsBasic pet care knowledge, sometimes certification programsProfessional certifications (e.g., CPDT-KA, CCPDT)
Work EnvironmentPet stores, kennels, homes, sheltersTraining facilities, client homes, shelters
Job FocusSupporting trainers, caring for dogs, basic obedienceTeaching obedience, behavior modification, advanced training
Industry UsageCommonly used in pet care and support rolesUsed in professional training and behavior modification

Dog Assistants typically support trainers and care for dogs in various environments, focusing on basic care and obedience. Dog Trainers, on the other hand, are skilled professionals who teach dogs advanced commands and modify behaviors, often requiring certifications. Both roles are essential in the pet industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dog assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dog Assistant, you need a solid understanding of canine behavior, basic animal care, and experience working with dogs, often supported by relevant courses or certifications in animal handling. Familiarity with tools like leashes, harnesses, pet first aid kits, and pet management apps is typically required. Patience, reliability, and strong communication skills help in building trust with both dogs and their owners. These skills ensure the safety, well-being, and positive experience of the animals, as well as satisfaction for their human companions.

What is a dog assistant?

Dog Assistants are individuals who provide care and support for dogs, often helping with tasks such as feeding, walking, grooming, and administering medication. They may work in various settings, including private homes, animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or dog daycare centers. Dog Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of dogs by attending to their physical and emotional needs, following specific care instructions from owners or supervisors, and sometimes assisting with basic training. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the needs of the dogs and the expectations of the employer.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dog jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Dog jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Dog Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Dog Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dog Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Dog Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Dog Assistant job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,993 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Assistant Store Team Leader

Bernau Capital Partners

Fort Dodge, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Assistant Store Team Leader
Is shopping with your 4-legged family member a tail waggin' good time? Do you believe carry out isn't just about pizza, it's for bags of kibble to? If you're the leader of the pack and enjoy providing products and services that enrich pets' lives, then come work in our neighborhood!
As Assistant Store Team Leader at Pet Supplies Plus, you're pawsitively passionate about people and their pets. Providing exceptional, neighborly service at every opportunity during your workday, you:
  • help your store team by example - including, but definitely not limited to, greeting a neighbor and their new puppy when they enter the store
  • recognize the local pug rescue coordinator and offer to host the next adoption event
  • join the conversation when you hear a team member assisting a neighbor in choosing between three very good natural dog food brands
  • Support STL in analyzing your store sales results and developing plans to maximize sales, neighbor engagement and productivity
  • create a fun, positive environment for the team and your neighbors; and a reputation for neighborly, knowledgeable, trustworthy, petcentric service in your neighborhood
  • Assisting in the operational management of the stores
  • Adhering to operational policies and procedures (cleanliness, animal care, safety and security) that ensure exceptional service is provided to our neighbors
  • Assisting in promoting team member engagement and morale by understanding individual motivation and needs, recognizing and rewarding successful performance, and helping them achieve career goals
  • Supports STL in maintaining a fully staffed team and recruiting and onboarding for all levels in the store
  • Cultivating a learning culture by providing exceptional onboarding and development opportunities, along with coaching and feedback to team members
  • Connecting with community organizations to partner on events and marketing opportunities.
  • 2+ years of experience leading a retail team
  • 4-year college degree or equivalent work experience
  • Microsoft Office knowledge is a must, as well as good communication skills
  • The ability to operate all equipment - including a forklift - to run the store is important, as well as being able to climb ladders, bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 plus pounds
  • Candidates must be flexible to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
  • Have reliable transportation.
  • All candidates Must pass the pre-employment drug, background and validated selection test
  • 18 years of age or older.

...all while engaging with PSP neighbors and smiling in the face of puppy breath. Are you awesome? No, you're more than that. You're PAWsome.
Assistant Store Team Leader's key responsibilities include:
  • Assisting in the operational management of the stores
  • Adhering to operational policies and procedures (cleanliness, animal care, safety and security) that ensure exceptional service is provided to our neighbors
  • Assisting in promoting team member engagement and morale by understanding individual motivation and needs, recognizing and rewarding successful performance, and helping them achieve career goals
  • Supports STL in maintaining a fully staffed team and recruiting and onboarding for all levels in the store
  • Cultivating a learning culture by providing exceptional onboarding and development opportunities, along with coaching and feedback to team members
  • Connecting with community organizations to partner on events and marketing opportunities.

PAWsome Assistant Store Team Leaders will have:
  • 2+ years of experience leading a retail team
  • 4-year college degree or equivalent work experience
  • Microsoft Office knowledge is a must, as well as good communication skills
  • The ability to operate all equipment - including a forklift - to run the store is important, as well as being able to climb ladders, bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 plus pounds
  • Candidates must be flexible to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
  • Have reliable transportation.
  • All candidates Must pass the pre-employment drug, background and validated selection test
  • 18 years of age or older.

Full-time Team Members will have access to a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
  • Paid time off including Paid Time Off (PTO) and holidays
  • Company paid Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability
  • 401(k) with a company match
  • Ongoing training and development

AAP/EEO Statement: Pet Supplies Plus is an Equal Opportunity Employer