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Dog Trainer Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Pet Trainer

Grand Chute, WI

$13.07 - $21.08/hr

Pet Trainer About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and teamwork. Our goal ...

Pet Trainer About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and teamwork. Our goal ...

Pet Trainer About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and teamwork. Our goal ...

Pet Trainer About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and teamwork. Our goal ...

Pet Trainer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$13.07 - $21.08/hr

Pet Trainer About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and teamwork. Our goal ...

Pet Trainer About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and teamwork. Our goal ...

JOB SUMMARY As a Personal Trainer, above and beyond just offering you a challenging workout. You support members of the community in reaching their physical fitness and healthy living goals. At the Y ...

JOB SUMMARY As a Personal Trainer, above and beyond just offering you a challenging workout. You support members of the community in reaching their physical fitness and healthy living goals. At the Y ...

Our Personal Trainers provide customized fitness programs to our members while educating and guiding them on proper nutrition, cardiovascular exercise, resistance training and attaining a healthier ...

Showing results 41-60

Dog Trainer information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$9

$18

$31

How much do dog trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog trainer in Appleton, WI is $18.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Dog Trainer, you need a solid understanding of animal behavior, dog training techniques, and often a certification from organizations like the CCPDT or APDT. Familiarity with training tools such as clickers, leashes, and behavior assessment software is commonly required. Exceptional patience, communication skills, and the ability to build rapport with both dogs and their owners distinguish top trainers. These skills ensure effective training outcomes, client satisfaction, and the safety and well-being of both animals and people.

What is the difference between Dog Trainer vs Pet Behaviorist?

AspectDog TrainerPet Behaviorist
CredentialsCertifications like CPDT-KA, CCPDT, or local training certificatesAdvanced certifications, often with a background in animal behavior or psychology
Work EnvironmentPet training facilities, homes, outdoor spacesVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, private practices
Industry UsageCommonly hired by pet owners and training centersOften employed by veterinary clinics, research, or specialized behavior clinics
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking basic or obedience training for dogsIndividuals looking for solutions to complex behavioral issues

Dog trainers focus on teaching dogs obedience and basic commands, often working directly with pet owners. Pet behaviorists handle more complex behavioral problems, often requiring advanced knowledge of animal psychology. While both roles aim to improve the relationship between dogs and humans, pet behaviorists typically address deeper issues and may work alongside veterinarians.

What is a dog trainer?

A dog trainer teaches dogs how to obey common canine commands and exhibit positive behaviors. In this role, you meet with the dog owner to discuss negative behavioral issues and explain your techniques to reduce or eliminate that behavior. Your job duties include designing lessons, employing positive behavioral methods, and updating the owner or breeder with feedback about the dog’s progress. Dog trainers may work with a dog and their owner or breeder from the time they are a puppy until they grow into adulthood. You may work for a pet training company and offer basic and advanced canine training classes, or you may choose to become an independent contractor and find clients on your own.

What does a dog trainer do?

A dog trainer works with dogs and their owners to teach obedience, address behavioral issues, and help dogs learn specific skills or commands. Training can include basic commands like sit, stay, and come, as well as more advanced behaviors or specialized tasks. Dog trainers often work with pet owners one-on-one or in group classes, and may also help address issues like aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking. Their goal is to improve the relationship between dogs and their owners through positive reinforcement and effective training methods.

How do dog trainers typically collaborate with pet owners to reinforce training outside of sessions?

Dog trainers work closely with pet owners by providing clear instructions, demonstrations, and practical exercises to practice at home. Effective collaboration often includes regular progress updates, personalized training plans, and follow-up support to address specific behavioral issues. Trainers also educate owners on positive reinforcement techniques and communication methods, ensuring consistency and long-term success for the dog’s learning. This partnership is key to reinforcing desired behaviors and overcoming challenges outside of formal training sessions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Trainer jobs in Appleton, WI? The most popular types of Dog Trainer jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Dog Trainer jobs in Appleton, WI? For Dog Trainer jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dog Trainer jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Dog Trainer jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Dog Trainer jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Dog Trainer job openings:
Infographic showing various Dog Trainer job openings in Appleton, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,369 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

$13.07 - $21.08/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


PetSmart rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

PetSmart does Anything for Pets – JOIN OUR TEAM! 

Pet Trainer

About Life at PetSmart 

Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and teamwork. Our goal is to create a culture where associates learn and grow together, thrive as effective teams, and challenge each other to be the best they can be.

Benefits that benefit you 

  • Paid Weekly
  • Health & Wellness Benefits
  • 401k Plan with company match
  • Paid Time off for full-time associates
  • Associate discounts 
  • Tuition Assistance 
  • Career pathing 
  • Development opportunities 

Job Summary

PetSmart’s Pet Training Instructor is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and upholding the company’s vision, mission, values, and strategy. They will actively seek out pets and pet parents to educate them on the benefits of pet training and will deliver pet training services in accordance with PetSmart’s curriculum.   

Essential Responsibilities

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following and may vary depending on store characteristics and needs: 

  • Responsible for pet parent experience and outcomes conducted over the telephone, in person or online, and responding to pet parent concerns.  
  • Actively sell training classes in store, over the phone and online. 
  • Educates pet parents about the benefits of our entire pet training curriculum.  
  • Maintains all paperwork related to pet training. 
  • Educates fellow associates and acts as the subject matter expert for their location on the benefits of pet training.  
  • Schedules training classes as outlined by the Company expectations. 
  • Responsible for creating a safe environment for the people and pets in their classes and surrounding areas of the store.   
  • Ensures the pet training area and surrounding areas are clean and presentable. 
  • Recognize associates for their contributions to selling pet training. 
  • Responsible for taking immediate action when a sick/injured pet is identified in the store; transport to the vet as needed.  
  • Recommends, informs and sells merchandise and services.  
  • Assists and works in other departments as required. Other duties may be assigned. 
  • Participates in our culture of Belonging and Recognition.   
  • Follows all Company Policies and Procedures. 

Qualifications

  • 1-2 years of retail experience in a customer-focused environment. 
  • Accredited in PetSmart Training Instructor Course
  • Proficiency in computer applications. 
  • Ability to react under pressure and maintain composure.  
  • Flexibility in schedule, able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed 
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.  
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. 

Essential physical demands and work environment

  • Associate required to stand, walk, climb a ladder, and use hands to handle, feel, hold, write, etc. The associate frequently is required to reach with hands and arms: stoop, kneel, crouch, talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include depth perception. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
  • Associate must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally team lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include depth perception. 
  • While performing this job, the associate is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts and a wet environment with an abundance of pet hair. The noise level is moderate in the work environment; however, associates may be exposed to high levels of noise at times. Exposure to live animals and their handling is common. 

Do what you love 

Join us for a chance to make a meaningful impact every day. Whether it's helping a customer choose their first fish, celebrating a pet's birthday, or seeing the smile on a pet parent’s face after a fresh groom—you'll create moments that matter. At PetSmart, we cherish diversity and the unique perspectives of our 50,000 associates, all united by a passion for pets.  

We’re delighted you’re interested in joining our pack and helping us in our commitment to doing Anything for Pets, and the people who love them. We're excited to hear your story and learn more about you! Apply Now!  

PetSmart is an Equal Opportunity Employer  

PetSmart provides an equal opportunity for all associates and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. We offer reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout our application process, upon request and as required by law.        

This listing is not an indication that the position is currently open or available. We are continually looking to build a strong network of talented candidates to join our organization and are always accepting applications. Feel free to contact your local PetSmart store to check on which roles they are actively hiring for.

This job summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work associates/leaders assigned to this job perform. It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. You will be provided with a copy of a job description for the actual position you are hired into. Exact rate of pay will be based on relevant experience level, training, skills or knowledge and store location. In no instance will PetSmart pay less than the local minimum wage.  This position is also eligible for train pay which is based on a percent of training sales (which is 0% for Pet Training Instructor Trainees, 20% of training sales for Pet Training Instructor 2, 25% of training sales for Pet Training Instructor 3, and 30% of training sales for Area Pet Training Instructor), as well as benefits, as described at https://benefits.petsmart.com/us/.

Applicants must be over the age of 18 (except in Montana or where otherwise required by local or state law)   

For applicants in our Waterloo, San Francisco, or Los Angeles locations: Pursuant to the Waterloo and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, as well as the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring, we will consider for employment, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with the law.


Qualifications:UNAVAILABLEEducation:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

What PetSmart employees say

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Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About PetSmart

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. With 50,000+ associates nationwide, we foster a culture grounded in integrity, teamwork, and inclusion - where your voice is heard, your efforts are valued and your career can thrive. Together, we make a difference for pets, their people and each other.

Industry

Retail and legal services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US