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Dog Training Apprentice Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Groom dogs of all sizes and breeds according to customer specifications and breed standards ... Complete a 30-hour in-store training period successfully * Attend required advanced pet and product ...

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Dog Training Apprentice information

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How much do dog training apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog training apprentice in Colorado is $20.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $22.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog training apprentice?

A Dog Training Apprentice is someone who is learning the skills required to become a professional dog trainer by working under the guidance of an experienced trainer. Apprentices assist with training sessions, observe techniques, and gain hands-on experience with dogs of various breeds and temperaments. The apprenticeship often includes studying canine behavior, learning training methodologies, and understanding how to communicate with both dogs and their owners. This role helps individuals build the foundation necessary for a career in dog training.

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

To thrive as a Dog Training Apprentice, you need foundational knowledge of animal behavior, basic dog handling skills, and a genuine interest in canine care, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with positive reinforcement techniques, basic training tools (like leashes and clickers), and possibly certifications in pet first aid are valuable. Patience, strong observation, and effective communication with both dogs and their owners are essential soft skills. These skills enable apprentices to build trust with animals, support effective learning, and foster positive client relationships, which are critical for success in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by dog training apprentices during their initial months on the job?

During the initial months, Dog Training Apprentices often face challenges such as understanding varied dog temperaments, learning to communicate effectively with both dogs and owners, and mastering different training techniques. Adapting to a fast-paced environment where multiple dogs with unique behavioral issues are present can be demanding. Additionally, apprentices may need to quickly build confidence in leading training sessions and handling unexpected situations, all while receiving feedback and guidance from experienced trainers.

What is the difference between Dog Training Apprentice vs Dog Trainer?

AspectDog Training ApprenticeDog Trainer
CertificationsOften requires basic pet care or training certifications, ongoing trainingTypically certified through professional organizations, more experienced
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised training sessions, kennels, training centersIndependent or team-based training sessions, pet owners' homes, kennels
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting trainers, observing training techniques, gaining experienceDesigning and implementing training programs, working directly with dogs and owners

The main difference is that a Dog Training Apprentice is in a learning phase, assisting and gaining experience, while a Dog Trainer is a fully responsible professional conducting training sessions independently.

How long is a dog training apprenticeship?

A dog training apprenticeship typically lasts between 6 months to 2 years, depending on the program and the level of skill development required. Apprentices often gain hands-on experience working with dogs and may earn certifications during or after the program.

How to get into dog training as a career?

To become a dog training apprentice, gain knowledge of canine behavior through courses or certifications, and seek hands-on experience by volunteering or working with experienced trainers. Developing skills in communication, patience, and understanding of training tools like clickers or leashes is essential. Many apprentices start by working at kennels, shelters, or training facilities to build practical experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Training jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Dog Training jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Dog Training Apprentice jobs in Colorado?

For Dog Training Apprentice jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dog Training Apprentice jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Dog Training Apprentice jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Dog Training Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Dog Training Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Dog Training Apprentice job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,342 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Groomer

CYB Human Resources

Highlands Ranch, CO

$19.99 - $20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Summary/Objective  

The Groomer is responsible for providing professional grooming services for dogs of all sizes while delivering exceptional customer service and upholding Pet Evolution’s mission:

“Our mission is to help pets live the good life by providing the highest quality food, treats and grooming services.”

 

This role includes full-service grooming, drop-in services (nail trims, paw pad trims, gland expressions, etc.), customer education, retail promotion, and maintaining a clean and safe salon environment. The Groomer must demonstrate kindness, compassion, attention to detail, safety awareness, and professionalism at all times.

Essential Functions  

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Groom dogs of all sizes and breeds according to customer specifications and breed standards

  • Provide drop-in services including nail trims, paw pad trims, gland expressions, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing

  • Bathe, dry, brush, clip, detangle, and remove matted hair

  • Check pets for parasites, skin conditions, or abnormalities and report concerns appropriately

  • Trim nails and clean ears

  • Greet scheduled customers and conduct grooming consultations using open-ended questions

  • Educate clients on grooming packages, add-on services, and product benefits

  • Promote retail products and additional grooming services

  • Ensure all customers leave satisfied; address concerns immediately

  • Maintain accurate customer records and grooming notes

  • Answer phones and book grooming appointments

  • Clean and sanitize grooming equipment and salon facilities

  • Monitor animal behavior to ensure safety of pets and staff

  • Follow all company policies and procedures consistently

  • Complete a 30-hour in-store training period successfully

  • Attend required advanced pet and product training sessions

  • Carry out additional duties assigned by supervisors in a cheerful and efficient manner

 

Competencies  

  • Kindness & Compassion: Understands that pets may be stressed and handles them gently and professionally

  • Customer Service Excellence: Patient, attentive, and proactive in ensuring client satisfaction

  • Detail-Oriented: Carefully follows grooming instructions and observes pet behavior

  • Safety Awareness: Ability to assess animal behavior and prevent injury

  • Time Management: Efficiently manages grooming schedule and workload

  • Integrity & Professionalism: Demonstrates pride, empathy, and achievement drive

  • Communication Skills: Clear and professional verbal communication

  • Adaptability: Schedule dependent on store needs

 

Supervisory Responsibility  

This position has no supervisory responsibility.

Work Environment  

This role operates in a Retail Store and Dog Salon environment.

The environment includes grooming stations, retail space, animals, grooming tools, and customer interaction. The Groomer must maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace at all times.

Physical Demands

This position requires frequent physical activity in a hands-on grooming environment. The employee must be able to lift and carry up to 60 pounds regularly, stand for extended periods, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and safely lift, position, and maintain control of dogs of various sizes during grooming services.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work  

This position may be hired on a full-time or part-time basis, with hours varying according to business needs.

Standard operating hours are 7 days per week, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

  • Schedule is dependent on store needs.

  • Overtime may be required as needed.

  • Management reserves the right to adjust schedules based on business demand.

  • No time off is permitted during the two weeks preceding Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Travel  

This position does not require travel.

Other Duties  

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Requirements

Required Education and Experience  

  • Professional license and/or specialized grooming training required

  • One to three (1–3) years of grooming experience required

  • Minimum of one (1) year of groomi