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Dog Boarding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Dog Groomer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$4.0K/mo

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services, has an immediate opening for an energetic and organized individual to be the star of our spa services as a Groomer. We have ...

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services has an immediate opening for an energetic and organized individual to be the star of our playroom as a Dog Bather. Extensive ...

Dog Bather

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$15 - $18.43/hr

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services has an immediate opening for an energetic and organized individual to be the star of our playroom as a Dog Bather. Extensive ...

Dog Groomer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$4.0K/mo

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services, has an immediate opening for an energetic and organized individual to be the star of our spa services as a Groomer. We have ...

Dog Trainer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Minimum job requirements: -Must reside in or around the Hampton Roads Metro area. -Must be able to board at least 2 dogs at your residence for 14 days at a time. -Must have reliable transportation ...

Dog Trainer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$70K/yr

Minimum job requirements: -Must reside in or around the Charlottesville area. -Must be able to board at least 2 dogs at your residence for 14 days at a time. -Must have reliable transportation. -Must ...

Dog Trainer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$70K/yr

Minimum job requirements: -Must reside in or around the Hampton Roads Metro area. -Must be able to board at least 2 dogs at your residence for 14 days at a time. -Must have reliable transportation ...

Dog Trainer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Minimum job requirements: -Must reside in or around the Charlottesville area. -Must be able to board at least 2 dogs at your residence for 14 days at a time. -Must have reliable transportation. -Must ...

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Dog Boarding information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$17

$27

How much do dog boarding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog boarding in Virginia is $17.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $19.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Dog Boarding vs Dog Daycare?

AspectDog BoardingDog Daycare
Credentials/CertificationsPet care certifications, animal first aidPet care certifications, animal first aid
Work EnvironmentOvernight care at boarding facility or homeDaytime care at daycare center
Employer/Industry UsagePet boarding facilities, kennels, pet hotelsDog daycare centers, pet care services
Common Search/ComparisonPeople comparing overnight pet care optionsPeople seeking daytime dog supervision

Dog Boarding involves caring for dogs overnight, providing a safe environment while owners are away. Dog Daycare offers daytime supervision and socialization for dogs. Both roles require pet care certifications and are common in pet care industry settings, but they differ mainly in hours and setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in dog boarding, and why are they important?

To thrive in Dog Boarding, you need a solid understanding of animal care, basic pet first aid, and experience handling various breeds and temperaments. Familiarity with pet management software, booking systems, and possibly pet CPR certification is often beneficial. Strong communication, patience, and attention to detail help build trust with pet owners and ensure the animals’ well-being. These skills are crucial to provide safe, reliable care and a positive experience for both pets and their owners.

What are some common challenges faced by dog boarding staff, and how can they be managed effectively?

Dog boarding staff often encounter challenges such as managing dogs with different temperaments, handling separation anxiety, and maintaining a clean, safe environment. To address these, staff should be trained in canine behavior, use positive reinforcement techniques, and follow strict cleaning protocols. Effective communication with pet owners about their dog's needs and routines also helps ensure a smooth boarding experience for both the dogs and the team.

What are dog boarding jobs?

Dog boarding facilities provide short- or long-term care for dogs. Dog owners may use them as a daycare, dropping off their dog in the morning and picking them at the end of their workday. Others use them for longer trips, such as for vacations that last multiple days or even weeks. Some dog boarding facilities also offer dog grooming. There are various positions necessary to ensure the boarding facility functions efficiently. A dog boarding attendant's duties include cleaning the kennels and living areas, maintaining equipment (brushes, leashes, bowls, carriers), providing fresh water and food as directed, socializing the dogs, taking dogs out for a walk, and assisting with the overall care of the pet. There are also positions as a dog groomer, dog trainer, boarding manager, or receptionist, depending on the size of the facility and the services offered.

What is dog boarding?

Dog boarding is a service where pet owners can leave their dogs at a specialized facility or with a professional caregiver for a set period, usually when they travel or are unable to care for their pets temporarily. These facilities provide food, exercise, socialization, and supervision to ensure the dog's well-being. Boarding can range from traditional kennels to home-like environments, and many offer additional services like grooming or training. It's important to choose a reputable boarding provider to ensure your dog is safe and comfortable while you're away.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Boarding jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Dog Boarding jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Dog Boarding jobs in Virginia? For Dog Boarding jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dog Boarding jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Dog Boarding jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Dog Boarding jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Dog Boarding job openings:
Infographic showing various Dog Boarding job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,436 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Operations Manager - Dog Daycare | Dogtopia of Purcellville

Dogtopia of Purcellville

Purcellville, VA • On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description:

Dogtopia of Purcellville is hiring a positive, capable Operations Manager to support daily operations and team leadership in our dog daycare. This role is ideal for a true dog person with working knowledge of canine behavior and pack dynamics, who also values structure, professionalism, and teamwork.


This is a hands-on leadership role in a calm, organized, and people-focused dog daycare environment.


KEYWORDS :

Dog Daycare Manager, Operations Manager, Assistant Manager, Dog Care Manager, Canine Behavior, Pack Management, Animal Care Leadership, Pet Care Management, Dog Boarding, Dog Daycare Operations


ABOUT YOU:

• You are a genuine dog person with a strong understanding of canine behavior and pack dynamics

• You are positive, steady, and solutions-oriented

• You value clear expectations, organization, and consistency

• You communicate professionally and welcome feedback

• You take ownership while staying aligned with leadership direction

• You lead with empathy, accountability, and respect

• You are selective about where you work and expect professionalism in return

Requirements:

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support daily front-of-house and canine care operations in a dog daycare setting

• Monitor group play and support safe, appropriate pack behavior

• Reinforce dog handling, safety, and supervision standards

• Help ensure cleanliness, organization, and service quality

• Assist with scheduling, training, and coaching team members

• Step in as a leader to keep operations running smoothly

• Identify issues early and contribute practical solutions

• Serve as a positive role model for staff


THE ENVIRONMENT:

• Award-winning Dogtopia location serving Loudoun County

• Temperament-screened dogs and structured group play

• Clear systems, routines, and expectations

• Collaborative, low-drama workplace

• Engaged, supportive ownership


COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

• Salary: $45,000–$50,000 (based on experience)

• Medical and dental insurance

• Predictable schedule

• Free daycare for your dog while you work

• Opportunity for growth within a stable, values-driven business


QUALIFICATIONS:

• Leadership or supervisory experience

• Experience working in dog daycare, boarding, training, or animal care environments

• Working knowledge of canine body language, pack behavior, and stress signals

• Strong communication and emotional intelligence

• Ability to stay calm and positive in a fast-paced environment

• Able to be active throughout the day

• Must genuinely enjoy working with dogs and people


Apply today to start a confidential conversation. We are intentional about who joins our leadership team.