ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Dog Behavior Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Alle Spielen LLC

Canine Coach

Ashburn, VA · On-site

We provide you with the industry best training in dog behavior and care, and we equip you with the skills to make every day the Most Exciting Day Ever for every dog in your care. This is why Dogtopia ...

Dogtopia of Dulles

Canine Coach

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

We provide you with the industry best training in dog behavior and care, and we equip you with the skills to make every day the Most Exciting Day Ever for every dog in your care. This is why Dogtopia ...

Tyson And Friends Llc

K9 Shift Lead

Centreville, VA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Monitor dog behavior and body language closely * Help staff with dog assessments and introductions * Step in calmly and quickly to prevent or manage issues * Ensure dogs are placed in appropriate ...

A Girl and Her Dog LLC

Shift Manager

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

We provide you with the industry best training in dog behavior and care, and we equip you with the skills to make every day the Most Exciting Day Ever for every dog in your care. This is why Dogtopia ...

Dogizone

Dog Bather

Rockville, MD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Crazy about Canines? We're Looking for Top Dogs Interested in Career Growth. Want a job you'll love ... You will also monitor animal health and behavior, provide excellent client service, and support ...

DogiZone

Dog Bather

Rockville, MD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Description Crazy about Canines? We're Looking for Top Dogs Interested in Career Growth. Want a job ... You will also monitor animal health and behavior, provide excellent client service, and support ...

DogiZone

Dog Bather

Rockville, MD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Crazy about Canines? We're Looking for Top Dogs Interested in Career Growth. Want a job you'll love ... You will also monitor animal health and behavior, provide excellent client service, and support ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

UTILIZE SELLING BEHAVIORS. You're the key to providing an amazing guest experience within our Pet ... Dog Training Apprentice: 6-weeks weeks of instructor led learning and development. * Stage 2 : Dog ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Fairfax, VA

UTILIZE SELLING BEHAVIORS. You're the key to providing an amazing guest experience within our Pet ... Dog Training Apprentice: 6-weeks weeks of instructor led learning and development. * Stage 2 : Dog ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Bowie, MD

UTILIZE SELLING BEHAVIORS. You're the key to providing an amazing guest experience within our Pet ... Dog Training Apprentice: 6-weeks weeks of instructor led learning and development. * Stage 2 : Dog ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Bowie, MD · On-site

UTILIZE SELLING BEHAVIORS. You're the key to providing an amazing guest experience within our Pet ... Dog Training Apprentice: 6-weeks weeks of instructor led learning and development. * Stage 2 : Dog ...

Dogtopia

Front Desk Receptionist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

We provide you with the industry best training in dog behavior and animal care, and we equip you with the skills to make every day the Most Exciting Day Ever for every dog in your care. This is why ...

Dogtopia

Front Desk Receptionist

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

We provide you with the industry best training in dog behavior and animal care, and we equip you with the skills to make every day the Most Exciting Day Ever for every dog in your care. This is why ...

Dogizone

Dog Daycare Attendant

Rockville, MD · On-site

$17.65/hr

... and behavior. You will also provide excellent client service and support daily facility operations. As a front-line representative of DogiZone, your professionalism, care, and attention to detail ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsDog Behavior JobsDog Behavior Jobs in Washington

Dog Behavior information

See Washington salary details

$49.8K

$59.5K

$67.4K

How much do dog behavior jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for dog behavior in Washington is $59,461.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,900.00 and $64,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 I become a dog behaviorist?

To become a dog behaviorist, you typically need a background in animal behavior, psychology, or a related field, often supported by certifications from organizations like the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) or the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). Gaining hands-on experience through internships or working with experienced professionals is also important, along with developing skills in training, communication, and understanding canine behavior. Continuing education and staying current with industry standards help establish credibility in this specialized field.

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 may require knowledge of canine psychology and certifications in animal behavior. Consistent training sessions and understanding individual dog needs are essential for effective results.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Dog Behavior jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Dog Behavior job openings:

Dog Behavior jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Behavior job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,461 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Canine Companion Full Time

Tyson And Friends Llc

Centreville, VA • On-site

$13 - $16/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Company parties
  • Employee discounts
  • Flexible schedule
  • Free food & snacks
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development

Do you love dogs, enjoy staying active, and take pride in keeping animals safe, happy, and comfortable? The Dog Stop® Centreville is looking for dependable, hardworking Canine Handlers to join our team.
This is a hands-on position in a busy dog daycare and boarding facility. Our Canine Handlers supervise playgroups, provide daily care for boarding dogs, maintain clean and organized spaces, and work together to ensure every dog receives excellent care.
Responsibilities
  • Supervise dogs during group play and recognize canine body language
  • Maintain safe, controlled, and positive daycare environments
  • Redirect inappropriate behavior and prevent unsafe interactions
  • Feed dogs and provide water according to their individual care instructions
  • Administer medications as directed
  • Complete boarding, daycare, and enrichment activities
  • Walk and care for dogs that are not participating in group play
  • Clean kennels, playrooms, dishes, bedding, floors, yards, and common areas
  • Report changes in a dog’s behavior, appetite, energy level, or health
  • Follow all safety, sanitation, and emergency procedures
  • Communicate clearly with managers, leads, and other team members
  • Assist with opening, closing, and other assigned facility tasks
What We’re Looking For
  • Dependable, punctual, and comfortable working as part of a team
  • Patient, attentive, and confident around dogs of all breeds and sizes
  • Able to stay focused in a fast-paced and sometimes noisy environment
  • Willing to clean, work outdoors, and remain active throughout the shift
  • Comfortable following detailed care and safety instructions
  • Available for some weekends and holidays
  • Previous animal-care experience is preferred, but we are willing to train the right person
Physical Requirements
This is an active position. Team members must be able to:
  • Stand and walk for extended periods
  • Bend, kneel, reach, and move quickly when necessary
  • Lift approximately 40–50 pounds as needed
  • Safely handle strong, energetic, or excited dogs
  • Work indoors and outdoors in different weather conditions
  • Tolerate barking, dog hair, cleaning products, and occasional messes
The Right Person for This Position
The ideal candidate understands that working with dogs is rewarding, but it is also physical and demanding. A large part of the job involves cleaning, monitoring behavior, staying alert, and completing tasks efficiently.
We are looking for someone who takes initiative, supports their coworkers, accepts coaching, and treats every dog with patience and care. Safety always comes first.
Why Join The Dog Stop®?
  • Work with dogs every day
  • Receive hands-on training in canine behavior and safe handling
  • Build experience in daycare, boarding, enrichment, and animal care
  • Join a team committed to the safety and happiness of every dog
  • Opportunities for growth and additional responsibilities
Pay: $13.00+
Schedule: Full-time or part-time, including some weekends and holidays
The Dog Stop® Centreville is an equal opportunity employer.
Benefits:
  • Employee discounts on retail
  • Free Daycare for your dog after requirements are met
  • Discounts on boarding
  • Flexible schedule
  • On-the-job training
  • Opportunities for advancement
  • Paid training