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Dogs Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Canine Craze

Dog Trainer Apprentice

Urbandale, IA · On-site

Apprentice Trainers gain hands-on experience working with a variety of dogs while learning safe group management, proper dog-dog introductions, loose-leash walking instruction, and foundational ...

Canine Craze

Dog Trainer Apprentice

Urbandale, IA

$13 - $15/hr

Apprentice Trainers gain hands-on experience working with a variety of dogs while learning safe group management, proper dog-dog introductions, loose-leash walking instruction, and foundational ...

Canine Craze

Dog Trainer Apprentice

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Apprentice Trainers gain hands-on experience working with a variety of dogs while learning safe group management, proper dog-dog introductions, loose-leash walking instruction, and foundational ...

Canine Craze

Dog Trainer Apprentice

Urbandale, IA

$13 - $15/hr

Apprentice Trainers gain hands-on experience working with a variety of dogs while learning safe group management, proper dog-dog introductions, loose-leash walking instruction, and foundational ...

Grey Dog Media LLC

Food Stylist

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

Make food look as good as it tastes. Grey Dog Media, a national award-winning publisher of custom and consumer media, is looking for a Food Stylist to bring culinary creativity to life in print ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Clinton, IA · On-site

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

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All JobsDogs JobsDogs Jobs in Iowa

Dogs information

See Iowa salary details

$7

$13

$17

How much do dogs jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for dogs in Iowa is $13.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.30 and $14.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job can I do if I love dogs?

Jobs for people who love dogs include dog trainer, dog groomer, pet sitter, dog walker, and veterinary assistant. These roles often require knowledge of canine behavior, basic animal care skills, and sometimes certifications or licenses. Working with dogs typically involves hands-on care and can be part-time or full-time employment in pet services or veterinary clinics.

What are some jobs that dogs have?

Dogs can serve in various roles such as service dogs assisting people with disabilities, search and rescue dogs helping locate missing persons, police or military working dogs involved in law enforcement, and therapy dogs providing emotional support. These jobs require training, certification, and a strong bond with their handlers to perform effectively in different environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professional dog trainers when working with clients and their pets?

Professional dog trainers often encounter challenges such as managing varying levels of owner commitment, addressing deeply ingrained behavioral issues, and adapting training techniques to suit different dog personalities. Building trust with both the dog and the owner is essential for progress, and trainers must often educate owners on consistency and reinforcement outside of sessions. Additionally, trainers regularly collaborate with veterinarians, groomers, and pet behaviorists to create a comprehensive approach to each dog's needs.

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

To thrive as a Dog Trainer, you need a solid understanding of canine behavior, learning theory, and basic obedience techniques, often supported by certifications such as CPDT-KA or similar credentials. Familiarity with training tools like clickers, leashes, and dog training software is typically required. Patience, strong communication skills, and empathy help build trust with both dogs and their owners. These skills are crucial for effectively teaching commands, modifying behaviors, and ensuring safe, positive outcomes for dogs and their families.

What is the highest paying job working with dogs?

The highest paying jobs working with dogs typically include professional dog trainers, veterinary surgeons, and canine behavior specialists, with veterinary surgeons earning the most, often over $100,000 annually. These roles require specialized education, certifications, and experience, and often involve working in clinics, hospitals, or private practices.

What are dogs?

Dogs are domesticated mammals, scientifically known as Canis lupus familiaris, that have been bred by humans for thousands of years for companionship, work, and protection. They are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and ability to form strong bonds with humans. Dogs come in many breeds, sizes, and temperaments, making them one of the most popular pets worldwide. They require regular exercise, proper nutrition, and veterinary care to stay healthy and happy.

What is the difference between Dogs vs Veterinary Technicians?

AspectDogsVeterinary Technicians
Required CredentialsNo formal certification needed, basic trainingCertified, usually with an associate degree and licensing
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet stores, training facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research labs
Employer & Industry UsagePet owners, shelters, trainersVeterinarians, clinics, research institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentGeneral pet care, training, behaviorMedical care, animal health, clinical procedures

Dogs are primarily involved in pet care, training, and companionship, often working in shelters or training centers. Veterinary technicians, on the other hand, are healthcare professionals working alongside veterinarians in clinical settings, performing medical procedures and assisting in animal health. While both roles involve animals, veterinary technicians require formal certification and work in medical environments, whereas dogs are more associated with pet ownership and training activities.

How can I earn money with my dog?

Dogs can be used to earn money through pet sitting, dog walking, grooming, or training services. These jobs typically require basic knowledge of dog behavior, good communication skills, and sometimes certifications in pet care or training. Building a client base and maintaining reliability are key to earning income in this field.
What are popular job titles related to Dogs jobs in Iowa? For Dogs jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dogs jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Dogs jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Dogs jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Dogs job openings:
Dogs jobs near you
Dog Trainer Apprentice

Dog Trainer Apprentice

Canine Craze

Urbandale, IA • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary: $13 - $15

The Apprentice Trainer is an entry-level position designed to introduce developing professionals to dog behavior, handling, and foundational training principles within the Canine Craze Day School program. This role operates exclusively within Day School and provides structured support under the direct supervision of the Training Manager and/or Assistant Training Manager. Apprentice Trainers gain hands-on experience working with a variety of dogs while learning safe group management, proper dog-dog introductions, loose-leash walking instruction, and foundational impulse control concepts.

This position serves as the baseline launching point for individuals pursuing a professional dog training career within the Canine Craze program.


If you haven'tdone so, please check out our website to learn more about Canine Craze and what we do. The Dog Trainer Apprentice position is for staffing our Day Training Program.Canine Craze Website


What:Dog Trainer Apprentice

When:Hours are offered during the regular work-week

  • Monday - Thursday
    • AM Shift - 6:00am - 10:00am
    • Day Shift - 10:00am - 2:00pm
    • PM Shift - 2:00pm - 6:00pm
  • Friday
    • 8:00am - 12:00pm

Starting Pay:$13.00 - $15.00


Dog Trainer Apprentice is an entry level position and is the gateway to unlocking additional opportunities such as:

  • Assistant Trainer - continue work in Day School as well as eligibility to begin working as an assistant in training classes
  • Trainer - opportunities in the Day School, teaching classes, and working with clients 1-on-1 conducting Private Training
  • Senior Trainer - diving into behavior modification and more advanced training cases such as service dog training with Puppy Jake Foundation.


As a Dog Trainer Apprentice you will learn:

  • How to read dog body language
  • How to teach dog foundations
    • Teach dogs and puppies to emotionally regulate in social settings
    • Teach impulse control where puppies and dogs make better choices
    • Socialize puppies and acclimate adult dogs
    • Create a thinking dog - teaching puppies and dogs to learn how to learn
  • Essential handler foundations
    • Build healthy relationships with a variety of puppies and dogs
    • Be disciplined as a handler and follow through with what is in the best interest of the puppy or dog
    • Develop presence control with good leadership skills that dogs trust and respond to
    • The application of how dogs' learn and applying the practical work
  • The science behind how dogs' learn
    • Various strategies for teaching new behaviors
    • Add clear and effective cues
    • Create fluency with each dog's performance
    • Gain reliability and proficiency with each skill you teach


Some of the Essential Job Functions include:

  • Be able to work with and handle a variety of dog sizes and personalities. Using the skills acquired pivot training as necessary to set the dog up for success.
    • Applying appropriate behavioral management techniques
    • Follow all Day School program standards and safety protocols
  • Be a team player and work with other staff members to complete duties required for each shift.
    • Peer reviews are an essential part of the Canine Craze team. Lending a helping hand where needed is important for our company culture.
  • Continue to build on your training skills to be a lifetime learner
    • Each quarter you must do something to continue your education. This could include reading a book, doing a course, or working with a mentor. Growth is essential and stepping outside your comfort zone is a must.


Some of the Additional Job Duties include:

  • Have attention to detail, this is what sets the Good Dog Trainer apart from the GREAT Dog Trainer.
  • Doing your part in cleaning the facility at the end of the day or during our deep clean day.
  • Being flexible within the day to day operations and pivoting where necessary to help the day run smoothly and without a hitch.
  • Be able to lift 50+ pounds
  • Care for and walk dogs up to 150+ pounds


Benefits

  • Paid holidays - facility is closed (after 1 yr of employment)
  • Paid vacation (after probation period)
  • 50% off of training classes offered at Canine Craze
  • FREE online training classes and CTC membership


If you are interested in pursuing a career in Dog Training this is a great place to start! Offering a wide range of opportunities for growth, along with hands on experience working with 100+ different puppies and dogs that will for sure jump start your career.