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Dog Warden Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lorain County Commissioners

Dog Warden

Elyria, OH · On-site

$22.50 - $34.88/hr

Performs all duties of a Dog Warden as defined in Chapter 955 of the Ohio Revised Code. QUALIFICATIONS : * Completion of secondary education plus five (5) years of experience in animal control, with ...

Cincinnati Animal CARE

Veterinarian

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Perform necropsy exams for our Dog Warden Officers, as well as, provide comprehensive documentations, recommendations, and interpretations of findings * Prepare documentation and provide expertise to ...

Cincinnati Animal CARE

Veterinarian

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Perform necropsy exams for our Dog Warden Officers, as well as, provide comprehensive documentations, recommendations, and interpretations of findings * Prepare documentation and provide expertise to ...

Cincinnati Animal CARE

Veterinarian

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Perform necropsy exams for our Dog Warden Officers, as well as, provide comprehensive documentations, recommendations, and interpretations of findings * Prepare documentation and provide expertise to ...

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Dog Warden information

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How much do dog warden jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog warden in the United States is $14.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $15.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog warden?

Dog Wardens are local government officials responsible for enforcing animal control laws, particularly those related to dogs. Their duties often include responding to complaints about stray or dangerous dogs, investigating dog bites, ensuring dog licensing compliance, and sometimes caring for impounded animals. Dog Wardens educate the public about responsible pet ownership and work closely with animal shelters, law enforcement, and the community to promote animal welfare and public safety.

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

To thrive as a Dog Warden, you need knowledge of animal care, local animal control laws, and often a background in animal science or law enforcement. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, computer databases for record-keeping, and sometimes certification in animal control is typically required. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and compassion are crucial soft skills for interacting with the public and handling animals safely. These abilities ensure the humane treatment of animals, effective enforcement of regulations, and positive community relations.

What are the main challenges a dog warden faces when enforcing animal control laws in the community?

Dog Wardens often encounter challenges such as dealing with aggressive or frightened animals, handling emotionally charged situations with pet owners, and educating the public about responsible pet ownership. They must balance enforcing local ordinances with empathy and clear communication, especially during disputes or when issuing citations. Additionally, they frequently collaborate with law enforcement, animal shelters, and veterinary staff to ensure both public safety and animal welfare.

What is the difference between Dog Warden vs Animal Control Officer?

AspectDog WardenAnimal Control Officer
CertificationsAnimal control or animal handling certifications often preferredAnimal control certifications typically required
Work EnvironmentFieldwork involving animal rescue, enforcement, and shelter dutiesFieldwork and sometimes office work, handling various animals
Employer & IndustryLocal government, animal shelters, humane societiesMunicipal agencies, animal control departments, shelters

Both Dog Wardens and Animal Control Officers work in animal-related roles within local government, often performing fieldwork involving animal rescue, enforcement, and shelter duties. While their responsibilities overlap, Dog Wardens typically focus specifically on dogs, including licensing and enforcement, whereas Animal Control Officers handle a broader range of animals. Certifications and work environments are similar, making these roles closely related but with different scope.

How much do dog wardens make?

Dog wardens in Ohio typically earn an average annual salary of around $30,000 to $40,000, depending on experience and location. The role often requires knowledge of animal control laws, licensing, and handling animals safely, with some positions offering additional benefits or overtime pay.

How much does a dog warden make?

The average salary for a dog warden varies by location but typically ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 annually. Salaries depend on experience, certifications, and the size of the municipality or organization they work for.

How to become a dog warden in Ohio?

To become a dog warden in Ohio, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must pass a background check. Relevant skills include animal handling and knowledge of local animal control laws, and some positions may require certification or training in animal care and enforcement procedures.

What do you need to be a dog warden?

To become a dog warden, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some jurisdictions require a valid driver's license. Relevant skills include knowledge of animal behavior, handling skills, and sometimes certification in animal control or related fields. Physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors are also important.
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Dog Warden jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Warden job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $29,511 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Dog Warden

Lorain County Commissioners

Elyria, OH • On-site

$22.50 - $34.88/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

The Lorain County Dog Kennel's mission is to serve the citizens of Lorain County in the seizure of stray and at-large dogs. Dog Kennel employees are committed to meet or exceed the expectations of the Lorain County Board of Commissioners and the Lorain County Administrator in the areas of service, performance and professionalism.

Under general direction of the County Commissioners and County Administrator, supervises activities of Dog Warden staff, enforces provisions of state and local laws pertaining to animal control, performs other related duties as required. Performs all duties of a Dog Warden as defined in Chapter 955 of the Ohio Revised Code.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Completion of secondary education plus five (5) years of experience in animal control, with two (2) years' experience as Deputy Dog Warden, plus two (2) courses or one (1) year experience in supervision/management or equivalent preferred.
  • Knowledge of provisions of state and local laws regarding animal control
  • Knowledge of fair market value of livestock
  • Knowledge of laws regulating destruction of animals.
  • Ability to establish positive atmosphere as supervisor of work unit and resolve complaints from citizens

EEO

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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