1

Dog Trainer Apprentice Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Dog Trainer Apprentice information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$28

$50

How much do dog trainer apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog trainer apprentice in Oregon is $28.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $33.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a dog trainer apprentice do?

A typical day for a Dog Trainer Apprentice involves assisting with hands-on training sessions, observing experienced trainers, preparing training areas, and helping document each dog's progress. Apprentices often work directly with a variety of dog breeds and temperaments, learning to implement different training techniques and address specific behavioral issues. The role frequently includes interacting with pet owners to provide guidance and updates, as well as collaborating with team members to ensure consistent care standards. This hands-on experience is vital for building your skills and understanding the daily routines essential to professional dog training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dog trainer apprentice?

To thrive as a Dog Trainer Apprentice, you need a foundational knowledge of animal behavior, patience, and a willingness to learn, often paired with a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with clicker training tools, positive reinforcement methods, and familiarity with training record systems are valuable. Strong communication, keen observation, and empathy towards both dogs and their owners set exceptional apprentices apart. These skills are crucial for providing effective training, building trust with clients, and ensuring a safe and productive environment for all.

What is a dog trainer apprentice?

A Dog Trainer Apprentice assists experienced trainers in teaching dogs obedience, behavior modification, and basic commands. They gain hands-on experience working with dogs of different breeds and temperaments while learning training techniques and reinforcement methods. Responsibilities may include assisting in group classes, one-on-one training sessions, and educating pet owners. This role is ideal for those looking to develop skills in dog behavior and training before becoming a certified trainer.

Where do I start to become a dog trainer apprentice?

To become a dog trainer apprentice, start by gaining knowledge of canine behavior and training techniques through online courses, workshops, or volunteering at local shelters. Many apprenticeships require a high school diploma or equivalent and may involve working under experienced trainers to develop skills and earn certifications such as the Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT).

How long is a dog trainer apprenticeship?

A dog trainer apprenticeship typically lasts from several months up to a year, depending on the program and the trainer's experience level. Apprentices often work alongside experienced trainers to develop skills in obedience, behavior modification, and training techniques while gaining hands-on experience. Some programs may also include coursework or certification components that influence the duration.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Trainer jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Dog Trainer jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Dog Trainer Apprentice jobs in Oregon? For Dog Trainer Apprentice jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dog Trainer Apprentice jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Dog Trainer Apprentice jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Dog Trainer Apprentice jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Dog Trainer Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Dog Trainer Apprentice job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,454 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Apprentice Guide Dog Instructor

Guide Dogs for the Blind

Boring, OR โ€ข On-site

$27.18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description
Let your teaching heart guide you here.
Being an Apprentice Guide Dog Mobility Instructor with Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) on our Boring, OR campus is a special role that requires intelligence, emotional fortitude, and a love for both people and animals. What could be more rewarding than training a dog to fulfill its purpose as a guide, then working closely with a client and dog to secure the bond and ensure the team's success? You'll enjoy a sense of accomplishment every day knowing that your work is a crucial part of our mission.
Our paid, three-year Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Apprentice Program offers direct mentorship, intense on-the-job training, and a comprehensive academic curriculum. You will learn how to train dogs and clients, support teams in the field, and assess applicants alongside qualified instructors. We are committed to your success by investing the time, resources, and training necessary for you to become a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor based on the requirements of the International Guide Dog Federation and State of California Guide Dog Instructor program.
What sets us apart?
  • GDB offers a stable, professional career in dog training, with the potential for longevity and ongoing learning and growth. You can potentially step up into higher levels of the Instructor role and even into a Supervisory position.
  • You'll have the resources and training you need, plus exceptional support from your mentor, manager, and team through frequent meetings and communication.
  • You will see amazing things happen as dogs rise to their role as a guide through your training. Once a dog has been trained and matched with a person who is visually impaired or blind, you'll help the team work together, gain confidence, and create a special bond. You even get to travel to visit our clients in their homes for additional training and evaluation.
  • You'll stay in shape as you clock many miles each day that you are training a dog or working with a client and guide dog team. You should love working outdoors in all kinds of weather.
  • Our generous benefits package includes medical/dental/vision/life/disability insurance, 403(b), tuition reimbursement, and great wellness perks like yoga, circuit training, and an onsite gym.
  • You can bring your dog to work!

The qualifications you'll need:
  • Experience as a Kennel Technician at GDB or equivalent
  • High school diploma or equivalent; some college preferred
  • Ability to safely handle a variety of large-breed dogs
  • Current driver license and insurability at non-risk rates
  • Ability to work some weekends, evenings, and holidays

Guide Dogs for the Blind
At Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB), we believe that everyone deserves to move through the world safely and confidently - to live the life they want to live. As the largest guide dog school in North America, we have graduated more than 16,000 guide dog teams from across the U.S. and Canada since our founding in 1942. GDB not only improves mobility for our clients, we further inclusion. Join our team of more than 300 employees and share your passion for our mission.
At Guide Dogs for the Blind, we respect, value, and appreciate all differences. We welcome all qualified candidates irrespective of your race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Individuals with disabilities, especially those who are blind or visually impaired, are encouraged to apply. If you have a disability and need assistance and/or accommodation with applying for a job, please feel free to contact our Human Resources department.
Pay Rate
$27.18/hour