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Dog Show Judge Jobs in Basking Ridge, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Squarespace

Media Strategist

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $113K/yr

AI is central to how this team operates, but it's a tool and not a replacement for judgment. The ... You think about where AI fits before defaulting to doing it manually, and you can show us what you ...

Squarespace

Media Strategist

New York, NY · Hybrid

$70K - $113K/yr

AI is central to how this team operates, but it's a tool and not a replacement for judgment. The ... You think about where AI fits before defaulting to doing it manually, and you can show us what you ...

All JobsDog Show Judge JobsDog Show Judge Jobs in Basking Ridge, NJ

Dog Show Judge information

See Basking Ridge, NJ salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do dog show judge jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog show judge in Basking Ridge, NJ is $14.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do dog show judges get paid?

Dog show judges typically earn between $50 and $200 per day of judging, depending on the event size and organization. Some judges also receive travel stipends or accommodations, and fees can vary based on experience and reputation.

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.

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 education programs offered by breed clubs or kennel clubs, and pass written and practical exams. Certification requirements vary by organization but generally include a combination of training, experience, and demonstrating knowledge of breed standards.

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 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 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.

What cities near Basking Ridge, NJ are hiring for Dog Show Judge jobs? Cities near Basking Ridge, NJ with the most Dog Show Judge job openings:
Dog Show Judge jobs near you

Customer Service Representative (Flexible Working Hours)

Destination Pet, LLC

Westfield, NJ • On-site

$15/hr

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Destination Pet rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 52 rated veterinary

Job description

Customer Service Representative at Barkefellers- Westfield

Welcome to Destination Pet. We are One Pack—a united team working together to elevate the love and lives of pet families. Our pet-obsessed professionals create a connected care network of trustworthy partners who bring creative innovation every day. We are revolutionizing the pet industry. Join us!

We're looking for someone who can make every client feel like a VIP (Very Important Pet-parent).

Are you part concierge, part chaos coordinator, and fluent in both human and hound? If you love pets and people—and can juggle phones, customers, and the occasional muddy paw print—this is your moment.

At Destination Pet, we're not just another Pet/Vet care center—we're a community that lives to elevate the love and lives of pet families. Since 2016, we've been serving up best-in-show care from coast to coast with day care, boarding, grooming, training, veterinary services, and more. Whether it's belly rubs or brushing, our goal is simple: make pets feel at home and their humans feel at ease.

Perks & Pay:

Telehealth, 401k and Pet Insurance

Pay starts at $15.00/hour DOE + tips

Access your earned wages anytime with DailyPay.

Reporting To:

General Manager

What You Should Know:

  • You'll be on your feet often—standing, walking, climbing stairs, wrangling leashes.
  • Must be able to lift 40 lbs (bags of food, pet crates, sleepy bulldogs—you know).
  • Availability on evenings, weekends, and holidays required (pets don't take days off).
  • Exposure to cleaning supplies, pet hair, and, ahem, "accidents" is part of the gig.

What You'll Be Doing (Besides Being the Friendly Face Everyone Remembers):

  • Welcoming pet parents and their furry VIPs like they just walked into a 5-star resort (but with more shedding).
  • Answering phones with a smile in your voice and multi-tasking like a pro.
  • Touring new clients through the facility and selling the services that keep tails wagging.
  • Ensuring up-to-date vaccinations are on file—because safety first.
  • Managing check-ins and check-outs with efficiency and a personal touch (and the occasional treat).
  • Handling cash, cards, and balancing the end-of-day cash drawer like the organized rockstar you are.
  • Responding to complaints with patience and professionalism—even when it's clearly the cat's fault.
  • Escorting pet guests to and from their enclosures with the care of a concierge and the patience of a preschool teacher.
  • Keeping the lobby clean, welcoming, and ready for first impressions and sweet reunions.
  • Jumping in to support other team members whenever needed. We're all in this together.
  • Other duties as assigned.

What You Bring to the Table:

  • You're a people-person and a pet-person.
  • Previous experience in customer service or retail? Heck yes.
  • You've got solid communication chops—phone, in-person, email, you name it.
  • Multi-line phones and computer systems don't scare you.
  • You're cool under pressure and know how to keep things professional (even when someone's barking—and we don't mean the dog).
  • You solve problems faster than a lab chasing a tennis ball.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • 1+ year of customer service experience preferred.

If you've got the charm of a customer service pro and the heart of a dog mom (or dad), grab a name tag—we're saving you a spot.

Destination Pet LLC affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, age, disability or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled. Destination Pet LLC endeavors to make our employment website and application process accessible to all users and applicants. In doing so, we provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and require a reasonable accommodation or assistance completing the application process, please contact a member of our recruitment team. At Destination Pet, we're all about creating a workplace that's bursting with diversity and inclusivity. We don't play favorites or judge folks based on skin color, religion, gender, age, disability, or any other protected characteristics. Our hiring decisions are solely based on what you can bring to the team. So, we're throwing the door wide open for all like-minded candidates who believe in celebrating and honoring diversity and inclusion. Ready to join our pack?

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