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Dog Behavior Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

... observation, behavior assessment, trapping, applying animal services law and conducting ... Assists residents of County with needed animal supplies such as dog houses, food, straw for horses ...

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Dog Behavior information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$42.8K

$51K

$57.8K

How much do dog behavior jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Dog Behavior job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,034 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Field Service Officer

Harnett County, NC

Lillington, NC • On-site

$46K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Lillington, NC
Job Type: Full-Time Regular
Job Number: AC 2462
Department: Animal Control
Opening Date: 08/06/2026
Closing Date: 8/20/2026 5:00 PM Eastern
POSITION SUMMARY
POSITION SUMMARY:
An employee in this position performs effective enforcement of the County's animal control ordinance through observation, behavior assessment, trapping, applying animal services law and conducting investigations. This includes answering public and law enforcement calls concerning unvaccinated, unwanted, and nuisance animals.
Hiring Salary: $46,834.00
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION:
  • Enforces animal control ordinance as well as state and local laws pertaining to vaccinations; provides humane animal treatment; and collects fees and penalties
  • Responds and investigates animal complaints and captures stray animals via County vehicle.
  • Must be able to drive and operate a vehicle to transport animals.
  • Assists in the office by answering and returning calls.
  • Provides vaccinations as appropriate; traps domesticated, livestock, and wildlife; and/or tranquilizes animals.
  • Participates in daily activities relating to animal care and certain operations of shelter
  • Promotes spay/neuter and vaccination programs throughout the County.
  • Participates in rabies control programs.
  • Promotes responsible pet ownership through humane education.
  • Reduces complaints; investigates bites; and deals with other animal related problems including over-population
  • Provides related training.
  • Attends required classes; maintains equipment.
  • Coordinates animal control investigations and programs with various law enforcement agencies.
  • Speaks to owners; warns owners regarding violations; charges repeat offenders; prepares cases; and testifies in court when needed.
  • Communicates with the public regarding adoptions, complaints, animal welfare and other animal problems.
  • Assists residents of County with needed animal supplies such as dog houses, food, straw for horses, etc.
  • Creates and submits reports.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK:
  • High school diploma or equivalent; preference Associate degree in Animal Science, Biology, or related field.
  • Two (2) years of experience involving contact with the public and in handling and caring for animals;
  • Or equivalent education and/or experience; and
  • Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.
  • Ability to attain Certified Rabies Vaccinator (CRV) and Euthanasia Technician (ET) certifications within one year.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:
  • Knowledge of law/code enforcement principles, procedures, and techniques.
  • Knowledge and use of firearms to include long guns, shotguns, and tranquilizing pistols.
  • Knowledge of the principles and practices of animal control and animal confinement.
  • Skill in handling animals.
  • Ability to work under pressure and to deal tactfully with diverse individuals.
  • Ability to use data processing software and other office software products to produce reports, capture case data, and research as needed.
  • Ability to interpret codes, ordinances, policies and procedures.
  • Ability to work under challenging situations.
  • Ability to deal tactfully with diverse individuals.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Must be able to perform heavy work exerting up to 20 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects; frequently requiring 30 pounds of force to move objects; and occasionally requiring to exert up to 100 pounds of force to move objects. This work also involves the physical abilities of balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, feeling, grasping, handling, discriminating among sounds, kneeling, lifting, having manual dexterity, using mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, performing repetitive motion, speaking, standing, stooping, expressing ideas by the spoken word, and walking. Must be able to traverse uneven terrain in all types of weather. An incumbent must also possess the visual acuity to analyze data, work with color or depth perception, determine accuracy or observe facilities, operate motor vehicles or equipment, and inspect defects or fabricate parts.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The employee works in both an office environment as well as working and driving in the field or working in the animal shelter handling livestock and companion animals. This includes working whenever the County conducts business including during major weather events.
Harnett County takes pride in offering an excellent benefit package including health, dental, vision and life insurance, membership in the North Carolina Local Government retirement, free health clinic for employees and anyone in their household and other benefits. To see more information about the benefits offered by Harnett County, click
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