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Dog Behavior Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Develop thorough knowledge and understanding of dog breeds and dog behavior * Follow all safety guidelines and protocols * Attend daily recap meetings, as well as read and understand recap daily ...

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Develop thorough knowledge and understanding of dog breeds and dog behavior * Follow all safety guidelines and protocols * Attend daily recap meetings, as well as read and understand recap daily ...

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Develop thorough knowledge and understanding of dog breeds and dog behavior * Follow all safety guidelines and protocols * Attend daily recap meetings, as well as read and understand recap daily ...

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Develop thorough knowledge and understanding of dog breeds and dog behavior * Follow all safety guidelines and protocols * Attend daily recap meetings, as well as read and understand recap daily ...

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Develop thorough knowledge and understanding of dog breeds and dog behavior * Follow all safety guidelines and protocols * Attend daily recap meetings, as well as read and understand recap daily ...

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Develop thorough knowledge and understanding of dog breeds and dog behavior * Follow all safety guidelines and protocols * Attend daily recap meetings, as well as read and understand recap daily ...

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Part Time Canine Handler

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Monitor dogs for behavioral, health, or safety concerns and promptly report any issues to the Manager on Duty. * Recognize basic dog body language and help prevent unsafe interactions before they ...

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Part Time Canine Handler

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Monitor dogs for behavioral, health, or safety concerns and promptly report any issues to the Manager on Duty. * Recognize basic dog body language and help prevent unsafe interactions before they ...

Dog Daycare Wrangler

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Your observations, judgment, and behavior management skills are trusted and valued. * Predictable ... Bring Your Dog to Work: Eligible employees may bring their well-socialized dog to work, subject to ...

Dog Daycare Wrangler

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Your observations, judgment, and behavior management skills are trusted and valued. * Predictable ... Bring Your Dog to Work: Eligible employees may bring their well-socialized dog to work, subject to ...

Dog Trainer

Poulsbo, WA ยท 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 ...

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 ...

Dog Trainer

Seattle, WA ยท 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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Dog Behavior information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$50.1K

$59.7K

$67.7K

How much do dog behavior jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for dog behavior in Seattle, WA is $59,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,200.00 and $64,300.00 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 Seattle, WA? For Dog Behavior jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dog Behavior jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Dog Behavior jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Dog Behavior job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,746 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Overview & Purpose
The Dog Handler is responsible for providing direct care for our dogs, as well as their health and safety while on-site, resulting in exceptional customer service and high-quality pet care.
A Week in the Life of a Dog Handler
The following is a list of general job responsibilities for the Dog Handler position. Please note that this list is not all-inclusive and may be amended to meet changing business needs.
Daily Operations:
  • Live out and be a positive advocate for Downtown Dog Lounge's safety culture
  • Understand and uphold the Purpose and Core Values of the business in actions and words
  • Actively oversee a designated dog park in person to ensure positive and safe dog interactions and mitigate escalating behaviors
  • Develop thorough knowledge and understanding of dog breeds and dog behavior
  • Follow all safety guidelines and protocols
  • Attend daily recap meetings, as well as read and understand recap daily

Spend Time With Dogs & Their Parents:
  • Provide exceptional customer service, including transparent communication
  • Develop strong relationships with customers (dogs and people)
  • Learn basic customer service, concierge, and front-facing role duties (answering the phone, replying to emails, posting in Slack, etc.)
  • Perform additional services such as dog walks, dog jogs, and one-on-one play with a ball
  • Become an proficient Gingr user and communicating with pet parents
  • Assist with dog rotations and mealtimes
  • Assist with running dogs at check-in and check-out

Support with Cleaning:
  • Clean up after dogs
  • Cleanliness of the location
  • Perform additional cleaning and disinfection duties including, but not limited to, taking out the garbage, mopping, cleaning crates and surfaces, laundry, etc.

Support the Team:
  • Uphold DDL Purpose and Values, communicating clearly, openly, honestly, and kindly
  • Communicate and participate as part of the team
  • Attend periodic required trainings and All Team Meetings
  • Mentor new team members as assigned
  • Perform other daily tasks as assigned by the Pack Leader and/or Supervisors
  • Cross-train for other positions within the company over time (concierge, pack leader, trainer, bather, etc.)

Downtown Dog Lounge is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We look forward to your application.
Requirements
Experience and Education:
  • Minimum of High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent
  • Must be 18 years of age to work independently in the dog parks

Required Skills and Abilities:
  • Comfortable working within close proximity to approximately 30 dogs in an enclosed park
  • Desire to develop a thorough understanding of dog behavior
  • Quick reaction time to unpredictable situations
  • Comfortable working in a loud environment
  • Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
  • Comfortable standing for 8 hours at a time
  • Able to lift 45 pounds
  • Must be flexible and will be expected to be available to work weekends, evenings, and during holidays

Salary Description
$21.30 / hour - $22.87 / hour, based on experience