ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Dog Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Final Two Survivor LLC

Dog Trainer

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Service dog or therapy dog training experience. * Previous dog training certifications. * Shelter, rescue, or vet tech background. Why join us? * Fun, supportive team environment. * Ongoing ...

Final Two Survivor LLC

Dog Trainer

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Service dog or therapy dog training experience. * Previous dog training certifications. * Shelter, rescue, or vet tech background. Why join us? * Fun, supportive team environment. * Ongoing ...

Gentiva Hospice - Portland

Therapy Dog Visits

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Own a therapy dog? You can serve as an additional support by making friendly visits with your certified therapy animal to folks living in local nursing and assisted living homes. Both you and your ...

Wagmore Co

Dog Groomer Part Time

Wayzata, MN · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Finally, Wagmore Co committed to our community, by providing grooming services for M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospital Therapy Dogs - Fern, Inka & Jersey, and Ronald ...

Wagmore Co

Dog Groomer Part Time

Wayzata, MN · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Finally, Wagmore Co committed to our community, by providing grooming services for M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospital Therapy Dogs - Fern, Inka & Jersey, and Ronald ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDog Therapist Jobs

Dog Therapist information

See salary details

$7

$26

$60

How much do dog therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog therapist in the United States is $26.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog therapist?

Dog therapists are professionals who work with dogs to address behavioral or emotional issues, often using techniques from animal behavior science and psychology. They may help dogs overcome anxiety, aggression, trauma, or socialization problems, and often work closely with dog owners to implement training and therapeutic plans. Dog therapists can include certified canine behaviorists, veterinary behaviorists, or trainers with specialized therapeutic skills. Their goal is to improve the well-being and quality of life for both dogs and their owners.

What are some common challenges dog therapists face when working with clients and their pets?

Dog therapists often encounter challenges such as building trust with dogs that have experienced trauma or behavioral issues. Additionally, they must effectively communicate treatment plans to pet owners and ensure consistent follow-through at home. Balancing the needs of both the animal and the owner, especially when progress is slow or setbacks occur, requires patience, empathy, and strong interpersonal skills. Collaboration with veterinarians and trainers is also common to achieve the best outcomes for the dog.

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

To thrive as a Dog Therapist, you need a background in animal behavior, canine psychology, and relevant certifications such as Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) or animal-assisted therapy credentials. Familiarity with behavior modification tools, assessment protocols, and client management systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and empathy help build trust with both dogs and their owners while supporting effective treatment plans. These skills ensure safe, ethical, and successful therapeutic outcomes for dogs and their human families.

How do you become a dog therapist?

To become a dog therapist, individuals typically need experience working with dogs and may pursue certifications in animal-assisted therapy or related fields. Training in animal behavior, communication skills, and understanding therapy techniques can enhance qualifications, and some roles require background checks or licensing depending on the setting.

What is the difference between Dog Therapist vs Dog Trainer?

AspectDog TherapistDog Trainer
CredentialsCertification in animal-assisted therapy or related fieldsCertification in dog training or behavior
Work EnvironmentTherapy sessions, clinics, hospitals, or private settingsTraining classes, obedience schools, or private homes
Industry UsageHealthcare, therapy, and rehabilitation sectorsPet training, obedience, and behavior modification
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding therapeutic roles for dogsLearning how to train or modify dog behavior

Dog Therapists focus on using dogs in therapeutic settings to assist individuals with mental or physical health issues, often requiring specialized certifications. Dog Trainers primarily work on teaching dogs obedience, behavior, and skills, usually with certification in training methods. While both roles involve working with dogs, their environments, goals, and credentials differ significantly.

More about Dog Therapist jobs
What cities are hiring for Dog Therapist jobs? Cities with the most Dog Therapist job openings:
What states have the most Dog Therapist jobs? States with the most job openings for Dog Therapist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Dog Therapist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Dog Therapist jobs are:
Dog Therapist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Therapist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,819 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

SouthernCare Hospice Patients are in need of Pet Therapy volunteers!

Southerncare Hospice in Uniontown Ohio

Akron, OH • On-site

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Bring a smile to a hospice Patient with the unconditional love from your dog. Therapy dogs are welcome visitors to our patients.

Southerncare Hospice serves patients in our stark, summit, portage and median areas, and volunteers improve the quality of life of patients through visits, often with their therapy dogs.

Therapy Dogs must have successfully completed obedience and therapy dog classes, and their owners must complete Southerncare volunteer training before visiting patients.

Volunteer orientation sessions are offered each month, daytime and evening. Call (3309201909) or email for more information on how to register.

Join our team of outstanding and amazing volunteers.

If you have a therapy dog consider joining our team our patients love pets....

Apply