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Dog Care Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Top Dog SF

Group Dog Walker

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Group Dog Walker & Driver -- San Francisco, CA ($22-$25/hr) Top Dog SF is a full-service dog care ... Supervise off-leash play groups of up to 15 dogs, with assistant support * Monitor dog behavior and ...

Scenthound

Dog Bather

Johns Creek, GA · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

We are a wellness-focused dog care company on a mission to help dogs live longer, healthier lives ... T. Check app Work as part of a team to ensure services are completed efficiently Assist team ...

BSUE DOGS CORP

Dog Bather

Portland, OR · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

High-performing Dog Bathers will have a clear path to management roles, including Assistant Manager ... Scenthound is a wellness-focused dog care company on a mission to help dogs live longer, healthier ...

BSUE DOGS CORP

Dog Bather

Portland, OR · On-site

$16/hr

High-performing Dog Bathers will have a clear path to management roles, including Assistant Manager ... Scenthound is a wellness-focused dog care company on a mission to help dogs live longer, healthier ...

BSUE DOGS CORP

Dog Bather

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$16/hr

High-performing Dog Bathers will have a clear path to management roles, including Assistant Manager ... Scenthound is a wellness-focused dog care company on a mission to help dogs live longer, healthier ...

BSUE DOGS CORP

Dog Bather

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

High-performing Dog Bathers will have a clear path to management roles, including Assistant Manager ... Scenthound is a wellness-focused dog care company on a mission to help dogs live longer, healthier ...

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Dog Care Assistant information

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How much do dog care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog care assistant in the United States is $20.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog care assistant?

Dog Care Assistants are professionals who provide daily care and support for dogs in various settings such as kennels, animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or dog daycare facilities. Their responsibilities typically include feeding, grooming, exercising, and monitoring the health and behavior of dogs. They also help maintain clean and safe environments for the animals, assist with basic training, and sometimes interact with dog owners. Dog Care Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and happiness of dogs under their care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dog care assistant?

To thrive as a Dog Care Assistant, you need a genuine love for animals, basic animal care knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kennel management software, animal handling tools, and sometimes pet first aid certification is beneficial. Strong communication, patience, and attention to detail help you provide excellent care and work well with pet owners and team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safety, well-being, and comfort of the dogs in your care.

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

Dog Care Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing dogs with different temperaments, handling anxious or aggressive animals, and maintaining a clean and safe environment. These challenges can be managed by developing strong observation skills, following safety protocols, and using positive reinforcement techniques. Effective communication with team members and staying updated on animal care best practices also help ensure the well-being of both the dogs and staff.

What is the difference between Dog Care Assistant vs Pet Groomer?

AspectDog Care AssistantPet Groomer
CertificationsBasic animal care, pet handlingGrooming certifications, pet styling
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, kennels, pet storesGrooming salons, pet spas
Employer & IndustryVeterinary clinics, pet care facilitiesPet grooming salons, pet stores
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve working with animals, a Dog Care Assistant primarily focuses on caring for dogs' daily needs, such as feeding and exercise, often in shelters or kennels. A Pet Groomer specializes in grooming, bathing, and styling pets, typically in grooming salons. The roles share some certifications and work environments but differ in their core responsibilities.

How do I become a dog care assistant?

To become a dog care assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and experience with animals. Relevant skills include knowledge of dog behavior, basic grooming, and handling techniques, and some positions may require certification in pet first aid. Gaining experience through volunteering or working at animal shelters can also improve your chances of employment.

How do you become a dog care assistant?

To become a dog care assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have a genuine interest in animals. Relevant skills include basic pet care knowledge, good communication, and the ability to handle animals safely; some positions may require previous experience or certifications in pet first aid. On-the-job training is often provided, and a compassionate attitude is essential for working with dogs and their owners.

What cities are hiring for Dog Care Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Dog Care Assistant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Care jobs?

The most popular types of Dog Care jobs are:

What states have the most Dog Care Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dog Care Assistant jobs include:

Dog Care Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Care Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,836 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Dog Walker & Associate Dog Trainer

Sniff SF

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description
Dog Walker & Associate Trainer
San Francisco, CA | Full-Time | $53,000-$58,000 + Benefits
Looking for a career that gets you out from behind a desk?
At Sniff San Francisco, you'll spend your days exploring the city's parks, building relationships with incredible dogs, and learning the art and science of canine behavior. We don't just walk dogs-we develop them through structured play, reward-based training, and active engagement.
We're one of San Francisco's highest-rated dog care companies, and we're looking for exceptional people who want to build a career in professional dog care.
No professional dog experience is required. We provide comprehensive paid training in dog handling, canine behavior, reward-based training, and everything you'll need to become a permitted San Francisco dog walker.
This is a profession with room to grow-not just a job.
Before You Apply
This is an active, physically demanding position. You'll likely thrive here if you're the kind of person who would rather spend the day outdoors than behind a computer.
Every day you'll:
  • Walk 8-12 miles throughout San Francisco.
  • Spend 6-8 hours outdoors, rain or shine.
  • Climb hills, stairs, and uneven terrain.
  • Safely manage groups of energetic dogs.
  • Stay alert, engaged, and moving for most of your shift.

If you're happiest hiking, running, backpacking, working outdoors, or being active all day, you'll probably love this job.
Responsibilities
What You'll Do
Every day is different, but your responsibilities include:
• Leading structured group walks throughout San Francisco.
• Timely pickup and drop-off of dogs
• Reinforcing positive behaviors using modern, reward-based training methods.
• Helping dogs build confidence through play, enrichment, and socialization.
• Monitoring canine body language and ensuring the safety of every dog in your care.
• Working closely with teammates in the field-our walkers support one another, and you're never alone.
• Building trusted relationships with clients through excellent communication and professionalism.
Qualifications
Who Thrives Here
This role is ideal for people who are:
• Passionate about dogs and fascinated by animal behavior.
• Hikers, runners, climbers, or outdoor enthusiasts.
• Veterinary assistants, vet tech students, or aspiring trainers.
• Animal rescue or shelter volunteers.
• Excellent communicators who enjoy working with both people and dogs.
• Reliable, punctual, and highly accountable.
• Calm under pressure and able to think quickly.
• Team-oriented and eager to learn.
• No animal care experience is preferred. Zero, zip, zilch.
• Please do not apply if you do not live in San Francisco

Apply