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Dog Trainer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Wing & Barrel Ranch

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On-Call Hunting Dog Trainer

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Wing & Barrel Ranch is seeking an experienced and passionate Hunting Dog Trainer to oversee the care, training, and performance of our working dogs, as well as support our member hunting experiences.

Scenthound

Dog Groomer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$22/hr

The Dog Groomer is an integral position at Scenthound, offering grooming knowledge and providing grooming services to clients. This Dog Groomer position requires: * At least one year of grooming ...

Scenthound Petaluma, CA

Dog Groomer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$22/hr

The Dog Groomer is an integral position at Scenthound, offering grooming knowledge and providing grooming services to clients. This Dog Groomer position requires: * At least one year of grooming ...

Scenthound

Dog Bather Groomer in Training

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

A successful Dog Bather is resilient, perceptive, patient, adaptable, and a compassionate dog lover! We are looking for a motivated team member who wants to advance their career through our training ...

The Comforted Canine

Dog Sitter

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Professional Pet Sitter & Dog Walker-- Santa Rosa / Sonoma County Area Do you love dogs (or cats) and enjoy working independently? The Comforted Kitty is looking for reliable, responsible pet lovers ...

New

The Comforted Canine

Dog Sitter

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Professional Pet Sitter & Dog Walker-- Santa Rosa / Sonoma County Area Do you love dogs (or cats) and enjoy working independently? The Comforted Kitty is looking for reliable, responsible pet lovers ...

New

Scenthound Petaluma, CA

Dog Wellness Advocate

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

The Dog Wellness Associate is a key position at Scenthound, focused on selling memberships while ... We are looking for a motivated team member who wants to advance their career through our training ...

Scenthound

Dog Wellness Advocate

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

The Dog Wellness Associate is a key position at Scenthound, focused on selling memberships while ... We are looking for a motivated team member who wants to advance their career through our training ...

Svetness Personal Training

Personal Trainer

Napa, CA · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

We are actively seeking exceptional trainers to join our team and deliver personalized fitness experiences in the comfort of our clients' homes. Join us and be a part of a dynamic community that ...

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Dog Trainer information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$10

$21

$34

How much do dog trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog trainer in Santa Rosa, CA is $21.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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.

Is a dog trainer a good career?

A dog trainer is a professional who teaches dogs and their owners proper behavior and obedience, often working in kennels, training centers, or private settings. The career can be rewarding for those passionate about animals and requires skills in communication, patience, and knowledge of training techniques, sometimes supported by certifications. Job prospects depend on location, experience, and specialization, with opportunities for self-employment or working for organizations.

What kind of dog trainers make the most money?

Experienced dog trainers who specialize in advanced obedience, behavior modification, or training service and therapy dogs tend to earn higher salaries. Those with certifications, a strong reputation, and a client base in affluent areas can also command higher rates. Additionally, trainers who own their businesses or work in upscale facilities often have greater earning potential.

What qualifications do you need to be a dog trainer?

To become a dog trainer, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience working with dogs. Certification from organizations like the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) or the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) can enhance credibility, and knowledge of animal behavior, training techniques, and safety is essential.
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Dog Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Trainer job openings in Santa Rosa, CA 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 $44,114 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

On-Call Hunting Dog Trainer

Kenwood BPSC Hunt Club LLC

Sonoma, CA • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

About:

Wing & Barrel Ranch is a privately-owned sporting lifestyle club located on 1,000 acres in the heart of wine country in beautiful Sonoma, California about an hour from San Francisco. With the vision of its founders to create “the most incomparable, hospitality driven private sporting club in America,” Wing & Barrel Ranch offers its members the best of the ultimate wine country lifestyle: a world-class clay course and upland bird hunting, fly-fishing, bocce, unparalleled culinary and wine offerings, summer concert series, member activities & programming, as well as unique travel opportunities exclusively for our members. We gather members who enjoy the finer things in life and whose interests draw us together in the ultimate outdoor sporting club, all in a family-friendly atmosphere. For more information, visit https://www.wingandbarrelranch.com/

Position Summary:

Wing & Barrel Ranch is seeking an experienced and passionate Hunting Dog Trainer to oversee the care, training, and performance of our working dogs, as well as support our member hunting experiences. The ideal candidate will have a proven background managing and training hunting dogs, with a minimum of 2 years in kennel operations or a related management role. This position requires leadership, program management, and a strong commitment to providing exceptional member experience.

Essential Duties:
  • Manage daily operations of the hunting dog program, including care, training, feeding, and health oversight of dogs.
  • Develop and implement customized training programs for hunting dogs (upland game and/or waterfowl retrieval) based on breed, temperament, and member needs.
  • Train dogs in obedience, retrieval, pointing, tracking, and other specialized hunting skills using humane, effective techniques.
  • Supervise, coach, and develop kennel staff and seasonal assistants.
  • Create and maintain financial reports, training progress reports, and program summaries for the Hunting Program Supervisor.
  • Coordinate with the Department Managers to ensure seamless integration of hunting dog experiences into member events and hunts.
  • Maintain accurate records, contracts, and invoicing in coordination with the accounting team.
  • Provide regular communication and consultation with members regarding their dogs’ training progress.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kennel and training environment.
  • Support hunting program demonstrations, events, and field trials as required.
    • Education & Experience
  • Minimum 2 years’ management experience in kennel operations, hunting dog training, or related field (management experience preferred).
  • Proven success in training hunting or working dogs for upland game or waterfowl retrieval.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with Club Essentials software a plus but not required.
  • Hospitality experience or prior work in a private club environment a plus.
  • Passion for the outdoors, hunting traditions, and working with sporting breeds.
  • Highlevel interpersonal and customer service skills with a focus on member satisfaction.
  • Physical fitness and ability to work outdoors in varying conditions.
  • This is an oncall position; hours vary based on the hunting season, with increased hours during peak season.
  • Opportunity to earn commissions based on member program participation and training services. (pending review and approval)
  • Experience managing a hunting program is a strong plus.
  • Depending on operational needs, there may be times when this role will be required to assist other departments with events.
    • Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs, stand or walk for extended periods, and navigate indoor/outdoor club facilities.
  • Work schedule includes weekends, holidays, and extended hours as required by events or business needs.
    • Working Environment:
  • The role operates in a fastpaced, memberfacing environment with moderate to high noise levels during events. Flexibility in hours and responsibilities is essential to meeting member expectations and supporting club operations.

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