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Dog Behavior Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dog Over Breed

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Experienced Dog Groomer & Dog Handler

Concord, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

We are a specialized dog hotel in Concord, CA, focusing heavily on dog behavior, socialization, and rehabilitation. We proudly dedicate some kennel space to rescue/shelter, meaning we regularly ...

Training provided

Top Dog SF

Group Dog Walker

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22/hr

Read dog body language and respond quickly and calmly to behavioral cues * Make sound, instinctive decisions in dynamic situations involving multiple dogs * Follow all safety protocols and handling ...

DogWalks Dog Care, Inc

Dog Walker

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Understanding of dog behavior. * Experience with dogs in groups. * Excellent ability to read dog body language. * Training, walking, dog daycare experience a plus. * Dog*tec or other dog walking ...

DogWalks Dog Care, Inc.

Dog Walker

San Francisco, CA

$20/hr

Understanding of dog behavior. * Experience with dogs in groups. * Excellent ability to read dog body language. * Training, walking, dog daycare experience a plus. * Dog*tec or other dog walking ...

Bowie Barker

Dog Groomer

Culver City, CA

$25 - $29/hr

... and dog behavior ● Excellent client communication and teamwork skills ● Must have your own grooming tools (clippers, blades, scissors, brushes, combs, etc.) -- we provide quarterly tool ...

Canine Retreat Inc

$18.50/hr

You will be required to speak with clients, sell services, provide knowledge of our facility and offer specials, and answer basic dog behavior/health questions. An upbeat, outgoing, friendly ...

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All JobsDog Behavior JobsDog Behavior Jobs in California

Dog Behavior information

See California salary details

$43.4K

$51.8K

$58.7K

How much do dog behavior jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for dog behavior in California is $51,812.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $55,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What degree do you need to be a dog behaviorist?

A dog behaviorist typically holds at least a bachelor's degree in animal behavior, psychology, biology, or a related field. Many professionals also pursue certifications from organizations like the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) or the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) to enhance their credentials and skills.

What is a dog behaviorist?

A dog behaviorist is a professional who specializes in understanding and addressing canine behavior problems. They assess dogs exhibiting issues like aggression, fear, separation anxiety, or excessive barking, and develop tailored behavior modification plans. Dog behaviorists use knowledge of animal psychology and learning theory to help dogs and their owners improve communication and resolve unwanted behaviors. Their work often involves working directly with both the dog and the owner to ensure lasting results.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in dog behavior, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in dog behavior often encounter challenges such as working with dogs that have severe anxiety, aggression, or fear-based behaviors. Managing these situations requires patience, a thorough understanding of canine body language, and the ability to educate and support pet owners through the behavior modification process. Collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and sometimes animal shelters is common, ensuring a holistic approach to each case. Ongoing professional development and self-care are essential to prevent burnout in this emotionally demanding field.

What is the difference between Dog Behavior vs Dog Training?

AspectDog BehaviorDog Training
CertificationsBehaviorist certifications, animal psychologyTraining certifications, obedience instructor
Work EnvironmentConsultations, behavior assessments, clinicsClasses, one-on-one sessions, obedience schools
Industry UsageBehavior modification, resolving issuesTeaching commands, obedience skills

Dog Behavior focuses on understanding and modifying a dog's actions through assessment and behavioral interventions. Dog Training emphasizes teaching dogs obedience and commands through structured lessons. While both roles aim to improve the dog-owner relationship, behavior specialists address complex issues, whereas trainers focus on obedience and skill development.

How do you become a dog behaviorist?

To become a dog behaviorist, individuals typically pursue a background in animal behavior, psychology, or a related field, often earning certifications from organizations like the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants or the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or working with animals is also important, along with developing skills in training, observation, and communication.

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

To thrive as a Dog Behaviorist, you need a deep knowledge of animal behavior, psychology, and training techniques, usually supported by relevant coursework or certifications in animal behavior. Familiarity with assessment tools, behavior modification software, and safety equipment is important for effective practice. Patience, strong observational skills, and excellent communication are essential soft skills for building trust with both dogs and their owners. These capabilities are vital to accurately assess issues, implement tailored training strategies, and foster positive outcomes for dogs and their families.

How to work on dog behavior?

A dog behavior specialist works on improving a dog's actions through training, positive reinforcement, and behavior modification techniques. They often use tools like clickers and require knowledge of canine psychology, patience, and consistency to effectively address issues such as aggression or anxiety.

What are popular job titles related to Dog Behavior jobs in California?

For Dog Behavior jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dog Behavior jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Dog Behavior jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Dog Behavior jobs?

Cities in California with the most Dog Behavior job openings:

Dog Behavior jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Behavior job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,812 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Experienced Dog Groomer & Dog Handler

Dog Over Breed

Concord, CA • On-site

Training provided

$18 - $22/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

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Job description

Dog Over Breed is not your average dog daycare. We are a specialized dog hotel in Concord, CA, focusing heavily on dog behavior, socialization, and rehabilitation. We proudly dedicate some kennel space to rescue/shelter, meaning we regularly welcome dogs from complex and difficult backgrounds. We operate with highly structured, franchise-level operational procedures to ensure absolute clarity, maintain safety, and minimize liability for everyone on our team. We are looking for a dedicated, tough-but-compassionate professional who knows how to read dogs and manage a pack.

The Role This is a hybrid position that demands top-tier grooming skills, a deep understanding of dog behavior, and strict adherence to facility protocols.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Professional Grooming & Spa Services:
    • Perform full haircuts and styling on dogs of all sizes, coat types, and temperaments.
    • Bathe any size dog and meticulously brush the coat of any dog.
    • Trim nails, clean teeth, and clean ears.
    • Meet high standards in administering medication and following allergy protocols.
  • Grooming Room Management:
    • Maintain pristine grooming room standards by moving equipment to clean floors, vacuuming, mopping, and removing all hair.
    • Sanitize crates and tables, clean windows, and remove hair from blowers.
    • Keep all equipment meticulously organized: nail tools together, brushes and combs together, scissors together, clippers together, blades and attachments together, and cleaning supplies together.
  • Behavior & Pack Management:
    • Maintain control of a large group of open-play dogs.
    • Understanding, recognizing, and addressing Canine Body Language and signs of stress and escalating behaviors.
    • Quickly address behavioral issues without the use of force or physical punishment.
    • Continuously walk the room to reward positive behaviors and re-direct escalated play.
  • Facility Sanitation:
    • Complete daily and weekly cleaning assignments to maintain a safe, clean play environment.
    • Address any kennels and floor with urine, poop particles, or stains.
    • Follow proper protocols with pet safe cleaning solutions.

What We Are Looking For:

  • Grooming Expertise: Demonstrable professional experience providing full-service dog grooming, including haircuts. (Please be prepared to provide a portfolio or examples of your grooming work).
  • Behavioral Experience: Proven experience handling difficult, reactive, or unsocialized dogs safely and compassionately.
  • Physical Capability: Ability to spend up to 100% of work time standing and must be able to lift at least 40 pounds.
  • Availability: Ability to work flexible day and hours, including holidays and weekends.
  • Attitude: Honest, compassionate, strive to always be open and not pass judgment.

We are also offering 50% commission to groomers (no hourly pay, only commission).

This is a Part-Time opportunity to grow into Full-Time.