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Dog Behavior Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Paws At Play

Dog Trainer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Evaluate dogs for temperament, behavior, and training goals * Provide daily progress reports and homework for pet parents * Work collaboratively with daycare and boarding staff to reinforce training ...

New

BarkSuds

Dog Groomer

Cary, NC · On-site

$100 - $150/day

Tuesday-Saturday 8:30AM- 5PM MUST HAVE AT LEAST 3 to 5 YEARS OF DOG GROOMING EXPERIENCE ... behavior. · The ability to stand for long periods of time. · The ability to treat all animals ...

Barksuds

Dog Groomer

Cary, NC · On-site

$100 - $300/day

Sound understanding of animal behavior. · The ability to stand for long periods of time. · The ... Company Description membership based dog washing/grooming salon.

Barksuds

Dog Groomer

Cary, NC · On-site

$100 - $300/day

Sound understanding of animal behavior. · The ability to stand for long periods of time. · The ... Company Description membership based dog washing/grooming salon.

Petco

Junior Groomer

Durham, NC · On-site

Learn dog behavior, pet and self-safety, proper check-in/out procedures, customer service, grooming policies, and begin on-the-job training in bathing and drying techniques * Weeks 3-10: Performing ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Wake Forest, NC

Learn dog behavior, pet and self-safety, proper check-in/out procedures, customer service, grooming policies, and begin on-the-job training in bathing and drying techniques * Weeks 3-10: Performing ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Durham, NC · On-site

Learn dog behavior, pet and self-safety, proper check-in/out procedures, customer service, grooming policies, and begin on-the-job training in bathing and drying techniques * Weeks 3-10: Performing ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Holly Springs, NC

Learn dog behavior, pet and self-safety, proper check-in/out procedures, customer service, grooming policies, and begin on-the-job training in bathing and drying techniques * Weeks 3-10: Performing ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

Learn dog behavior, pet and self-safety, proper check-in/out procedures, customer service, grooming policies, and begin on-the-job training in bathing and drying techniques * Weeks 3-10: Performing ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

Learn dog behavior, pet and self-safety, proper check-in/out procedures, customer service, grooming policies, and begin on-the-job training in bathing and drying techniques * Weeks 3-10: Performing ...

Dog Gone Happy

Animal Care Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$12/hr

Overseeing a playgroup of dogs and managing their behavior and playtime. * Canine Knowledge: You'll learn animal behavior in order to provide a safe environment, including studying canine body ...

Pet Paradise

Resort Associate - Cary

Apex, NC · On-site

$13.50/hr

Our Dog Training Academy, with a scholarship to become a certified Dog Trainer (aka Canine Behavior Specialist)! * Our Grooming Academy, with a scholarship to become a certified Professional Pet ...

Pet Paradise Resort

Resort Associate - Cary

Apex, NC

$13.50/hr

Our Dog Training Academy, with a scholarship to become a certified Dog Trainer (aka Canine Behavior Specialist)! * Our Grooming Academy, with a scholarship to become a certified Professional Pet ...

Pet Supplies Plus 4307

Pet Groomer

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$15 - $50/hr

Provide full-service dog grooming including bathing, brushing, clipping, and styling * Groom to ... Strong understanding of animal behavior and safe handling practices * Ability to lift, move, and ...

Pet Paradise

Resort Associate - Cary

Apex, NC · On-site

$13.50/hr

... Behavior Specialist)! * OurGrooming Academy, with a scholarship to become a certifiedProfessionalPet Groomer! * Complimentary Pet Day Camp - Bring your dog with you to work! * 30 Days of ...

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All JobsDog Behavior JobsDog Behavior Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Dog Behavior information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$42.8K

$51K

$57.8K

How much do dog behavior jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for dog behavior in Raleigh, NC is $51,034.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $54,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog behaviorist and what do they do?

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.

What is the highest paying job working with dogs?

The highest paying jobs working with dogs typically include professional dog trainers, especially those with specialized skills or certifications, and veterinary behaviorists. Veterinary behaviorists, who are licensed veterinarians with advanced training in animal behavior, can earn six-figure salaries. These roles often require extensive education, experience, and sometimes ownership of a private practice or working in specialized clinics.

What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The 7 7 7 rule for dogs is a guideline used in dog training and behavior management, suggesting that dogs should be walked at least 7 minutes per year of age, 7 times a day, and receive 7 seconds of attention or training per session. This rule helps ensure dogs get adequate exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction, which are essential for their well-being. As a dog behavior professional, understanding and applying such guidelines can support effective training and behavior modification strategies.

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

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 become a dog behavioral specialist?

To become a dog behavioral specialist, one typically needs a background in animal behavior, psychology, or a related field, often supplemented by certification 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 volunteering, developing strong observational and communication skills, and continuing education are important steps in this career path.

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 Raleigh, NC? For Dog Behavior jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dog Behavior jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Dog Behavior jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Dog Behavior jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Behavior job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,034 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Dog Trainer

Paws At Play

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Full-Time Professional Dog Trainer

Paws At Play Luxury Pet Resort is seeking an experienced, passionate, and motivated Full-Time Professional Dog Trainer to join our growing team!

We're looking for someone who believes in building confident, well-mannered dogs through positive reinforcement training and enjoys working closely with both dogs and their owners. If you're committed to creating lasting results while making training fun and rewarding, we'd love to meet you.

About the Role

As our Professional Dog Trainer, you'll lead our training programs while collaborating with our daycare and boarding teams. You'll work with puppies through adult dogs, helping them develop confidence, good manners, and reliable obedience in a positive, engaging environment.

You'll be responsible for conducting our Puppy Preschool, K9 Kindergarten and Play & Train Program, private training sessions, and Board & Train sessions, while educating owners on how to continue their dog's success at home.

Responsibilities

  • Lead Puppy Preschool and Play & Train programs

  • Conduct private training and Board & Train sessions

  • Develop individualized training plans for each dog

  • Teach basic obedience, manners, and life skills using positive reinforcement

  • Evaluate dogs for temperament, behavior, and training goals

  • Provide daily progress reports and homework for pet parents

  • Work collaboratively with daycare and boarding staff to reinforce training throughout the day

  • Maintain a safe, clean, and positive training environment

  • Deliver exceptional customer service and client communication

Qualifications

  • CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed) certification required

  • Minimum of 2 years of professional dog training experience preferred

  • Strong understanding of canine behavior, learning theory, and positive reinforcement training methods

  • Excellent communication and customer service skills

  • Ability to safely handle dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments

  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced daycare and boarding environment

  • Dependable, organized, self-motivated, and a collaborative team player

  • Weekend availability required

What We're Looking For

We're searching for someone who is:

  • Passionate about helping dogs and their families succeed

  • Patient, encouraging, and professional

  • Positive, energetic, and dependable

  • Committed to continuing education and staying current with modern, science-based training methods

  • Dedicated to providing exceptional care and customer service

Why Join Paws At Play?

At Paws At Play, we believe every dog deserves the opportunity to learn, play, and thrive. Our training philosophy focuses on building confidence, strengthening the human-animal bond, and creating lifelong success through positive reinforcement.

As part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to grow our training department, make a meaningful impact on the lives of dogs and their families, and work alongside a supportive team that is passionate about providing exceptional care.

If you're ready to make a difference and help shape the future of training at Paws At Play, we'd love to hear from you!

Please submit your resume, CPDT-KA certification, and a brief cover letter explaining why you're the right fit for our team.