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Dog Show Judge Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... another, and show up every day committed to making a difference. If you are passionate about ... Ability to exercise judgment, tact and diplomacy * Ability to understand and carry out oral and ...

... another, and show up every day committed to making a difference. If you are passionate about ... Ability to exercise judgment, tact and diplomacy * Ability to understand and carry out oral and ...

... dogs, wagging tails, and the occasional shake-off that soaks your entire shirt-and still smile ... Since 2016, we've been serving up best-in-show care from coast to coast with day care, boarding ...

Bather

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$15.50/hr

Can you handle wet dogs, wagging tails, and the occasional shake-off that soaks your entire shirt ... Since 2016, we've been serving up best-in-show care from coast to coast with day care, boarding ...

New

Bather

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$15.50/hr

Can you handle wet dogs, wagging tails, and the occasional shake-off that soaks your entire shirt ... Since 2016, we've been serving up best-in-show care from coast to coast with day care, boarding ...

New

With perks ranging from free concert tickets to dog-friendly offices, to progressive benefits like ... Acute sense of judgement, tact and diplomacy. * Prior cash handling experience preferred * Familiar ...

Yellow Dog Software, the leader in inventory management solutions, is growing and looking for ... The ideal candidate is a consultative B2B seller with strong business judgment, excellent CRM ...

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Dog Show Judge information

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How much do dog show judge jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog show judge in the United States is $14.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $15.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog show judge?

Dog Show Judges are professionals responsible for evaluating dogs at competitions based on specific breed standards. They assess each dog’s physical attributes, movement, temperament, and adherence to the breed’s official criteria set by kennel clubs. Judges must be highly knowledgeable about the breeds they judge and maintain impartiality throughout the competition. Their decisions help determine which dogs best represent their breed and may influence breeding and show careers.

What are some common challenges dog show judges face during competitions?

Dog Show Judges often encounter challenges such as maintaining impartiality when evaluating dogs from well-known handlers, managing time efficiently during large events, and making decisions under the scrutiny of spectators and participants. They must also stay current with breed standards and handle unexpected situations, like uncooperative animals or last-minute schedule changes. These challenges require strong communication skills, a thorough understanding of breed characteristics, and the ability to remain composed under pressure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dog show judge, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dog Show Judge, you need in-depth knowledge of breed standards, canine anatomy, and prior experience in dog handling or breeding, often supported by certifications from kennel clubs. Familiarity with computerized scoring systems and official guidelines from organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) is typically required. Sound judgment, attention to detail, impartiality, and strong communication skills help a judge stand out in the ring. These skills and qualities ensure fair, consistent evaluations and uphold the integrity and credibility of dog show competitions.

What is the difference between Dog Show Judge vs Dog Trainer?

AspectDog Show JudgeDog Trainer
CredentialsJudging certifications, breed-specific expertiseTraining certifications, experience in obedience and agility
Work EnvironmentDog shows, competitions, breed clubsTraining facilities, client homes, obedience classes
Industry UsageJudging at dog shows, breed evaluationsTraining dogs for obedience, agility, behavior

While both roles involve working with dogs, a Dog Show Judge evaluates and scores dogs during competitions based on breed standards, requiring specific judging certifications. A Dog Trainer focuses on teaching dogs obedience and skills, working directly with dogs and owners in training environments. Both careers require a deep understanding of canine behavior but serve different purposes within the dog industry.

How do you become a dog show judge?

To become a dog show judge, individuals typically need to gain experience as a dog breeder or handler, complete specific judging certification programs through recognized kennel clubs, and attend judging seminars. Certification requirements vary by organization and often include passing exams and demonstrating knowledge of breed standards.

How much do dog show judges get paid?

Dog show judges typically earn between $50 and $200 per judging assignment, depending on the event size and organization. Some judges may also receive travel stipends or accommodations, and many serve as volunteers or earn recognition rather than a fixed salary.

What cities are hiring for Dog Show Judge jobs?

Cities with the most Dog Show Judge job openings:

Infographic showing various Dog Show Judge job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,511 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Dog Care Specialist

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

$16.83/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Dog Care Specialist

Reports to the Dog Care Manager


Join the Team at Cincinnati Animal CARE

At Cincinnati Animal CARE (CAC), we do work that matters.

Every day, our team protects animals, supports our community, and helps save thousands of lives each year through compassionate care, advocacy, and education.

This work is meaningful, fast-paced, and can be challenging, but for the right person, it’s incredibly rewarding.

We are a team built for impact, made up of people who care deeply, work hard, support one another, and show up every day committed to making a difference.

If you are passionate about animals, thrive in a mission-driven environment, and want your work to have purpose, we’d love to have you join us.


About the Role

We are looking for a Dog Care Specialist to join our team and play an important role in supporting CAC’s mission.

In this position, you will:

  • Introduce dogs to potential adopters and fosters and provide compassionate care to the dogs in our shelter. 

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys meaningful work, takes pride in helping others, and wants to contribute to a growing organization making a real impact in the community.


What You’ll Be Responsible For

Your day-to-day may include:

  • Clean and disinfect dog cages and kennels and other areas of animal use
  • Feed and provide water for dogs in care
  • Maintain general cleanliness of the dogs living spaces
  • Speak with potential adopters and fosters and introduce them to our dogs
  • Perform Meet & Greets with shelter dogs and the dogs of potential adopters and fosters
  • Work with the Behavior and Training Department to implement daily enrichment activities
  • Assist with routine medical procedures such as intake vaccinations
  • Assist in maintaining dog records
  • Assist in the maintenance of equipment, building, grounds and supplies
  • May train new employees
  • May assist with transport rescue or partner clinics as needed
  • Perform any other animal care and shelter duties as directed
  • Be aware of and report medical and behavior issues
  • Be aware of and report safety concerns
  • Demonstrate compassionate care of animals at all times
  • Contribute to an exceptional experience for adopters, fosters, volunteers and donors
  • Respect the time and effort of coworkers by being on-time for work and performing at a high level throughout the duration of each shift


What Makes Someone Successful in This Role

We’re looking for someone who:

  • Is passionate about CAC’s mission and animal welfare 
  • Brings a positive, team-first attitude 
  • Communicates openly and professionally 
  • Takes ownership and solves problems proactively 
  • Thrives in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment 
  • Can balance compassion with accountability 
  • Is dependable, adaptable, and eager to learn 


Qualifications

Preferred/Required:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • 1 year of professional animal care experience preferred
  • Understand basic animal behavior
  • Knowledge of caring for and feeding animals
  • Ability to understand and adhere to policies and procedures
  • Possess strong oral and listening skills
  • Ability to handle sensitive issues
  • Ability to work under general supervision
  • Ability to exercise judgment, tact and diplomacy
  • Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions
  • Positions within this classification may require a valid Ohio driver’s license
  • Reliability
  • Sense of urgency
  • Attention to detail
  • Strong work-ethic
  • Positive and strong communication skills
  • Cooperative and collaborative
  • Strong customer service skills
  • Supporting additional organizational needs as they arise 


Why Join CAC?

At CAC, you’ll be part of more than just a workplace. You’ll join a team of people doing meaningful work together.

We offer:

  • The opportunity to make a real difference every day 
  • A mission-driven, supportive team culture 
  • Growth and development opportunities 
  • Competitive benefits package 
  • A workplace where your work directly impacts animals and the community 

Compensation & Benefits

  • Pay: Minimum pay of $16.83 after successful 90 day training period. $15.75 during training period. 
  • Retirement plan with employer match 
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance 
  • Paid Time Off 
  • Professional Development Assistance 
  • Life Insurance 


Working Conditions / Physical Requirements

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or operate objects, controls, or tools listed above; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell.
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move more than 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in outside weather conditions. The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts; in high, precarious places; and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.
  • Exposure and handling unvetted animals and their waste is frequent.