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Entry Level Dog Behaviorist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dog Walker

Charlotte, NC ยท On-site

$21 - $35/hr

This is not an entry-level role. We are looking for individuals who are already confident managing ... Can handle a variety of pet behaviors confidently * Understand that this is a 1099 independent ...

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Kennel Worker

Methuen, MA ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Monitor the health and behavior of dogs, reporting any concerns * Maintain safety and compliance ... * Entry-level experience in animal care * Skilled in animal handling * Strong time management ...

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Kennel Worker

Methuen, MA ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Monitor the health and behavior of dogs, reporting any concerns * Maintain safety and compliance ... * Entry-level experience in animal care * Skilled in animal handling * Strong time management ...

Shift Manager

Frederick, MD

$15 - $19/hr

We provide you with the industry best training in dog behavior and care, and we equip you with the ... This is an entry level management position but you must have some prior management experience at a ...

Shift Manager

Frederick, MD ยท On-site

$15 - $19/hr

We provide you with the industry best training in dog behavior and care, and we equip you with the ... This is an entry level management position but you must have some prior management experience at a ...

Shift Manager

Chantilly, VA

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

We provide you with the industry best training in dog behavior and care, and we equip you with the ... This is an entry level management position but you must have some prior management experience at a ...

Now Hiring: Entry-Level Animal Lovers! Pet Care Attendant If your camera roll is 90% dogs... If you ... Learn dog body language and behavior * Redirect rough play and keep the pack balanced * Clean and ...

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Pet Attendant

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$16.60 - $17.25/hr

Now Hiring: Entry-Level Animal Lovers!Pet Care Attendant If your camera roll is 90% dogs... If you ... Learn dog body language and behavior * Redirect rough play and keep the pack balanced * Clean and ...

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Entry Level Dog Behaviorist information

See salary details

$44K

$52.5K

$59.5K

How much do entry level dog behaviorist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level dog behaviorist in the United States is $52,499.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $56,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level dog behaviorists?

Entry level dog behaviorists are professionals who work with dogs to assess, understand, and modify their behavior, usually under the supervision of more experienced trainers or behaviorists. They typically help address common issues like excessive barking, anxiety, and basic obedience problems using positive reinforcement and other humane training methods. Entry level dog behaviorists may work in animal shelters, training facilities, or private homes, and often have foundational education or certifications in animal behavior or related fields. Their role is to support both dogs and their owners in building better communication and improving the dog's well-being.

What types of cases and responsibilities can an entry level dog behaviorist expect to handle in their first year?

As an entry level dog behaviorist, you'll typically work with common behavioral issues such as leash pulling, excessive barking, and mild separation anxiety under the supervision of a senior behaviorist. Your daily tasks may include conducting behavioral assessments, assisting in training sessions, and educating pet owners on positive reinforcement techniques. You'll often collaborate with veterinarians, trainers, and shelter staff, which provides valuable learning opportunities. Over time, you'll build experience with more complex cases and have the chance to observe or co-lead group classes, paving the way for career advancement within animal behavior and training fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Dog Behaviorist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Dog Behaviorist, you need foundational knowledge in animal behavior, basic training techniques, and often a relevant certification such as CPDT-KA or completion of animal behavior courses. Familiarity with behavior assessment tools, positive reinforcement training equipment, and basic data tracking systems is typically expected. Patience, strong observation skills, and clear communication with both dogs and their owners are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure effective training, foster trust with clients, and promote the well-being of the animals in your care.

What is the difference between Entry Level Dog Behaviorist vs Dog Trainer?

AspectEntry Level Dog BehavioristDog Trainer
Required CertificationsBasic certifications in animal behavior or training, often from recognized organizationsCertifications vary; some may have basic training certifications or none
Work EnvironmentAnimal clinics, behavior consulting offices, or client homesPet training facilities, pet stores, or client homes
Industry UsageFocuses on modifying behavior issues and understanding canine psychologyFocuses on obedience, commands, and general training skills
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for career entry and scope of work

While both roles involve working with dogs, an Entry Level Dog Behaviorist primarily addresses behavioral issues and canine psychology, often requiring specific certifications. A Dog Trainer typically focuses on obedience and training commands. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path based on your skills and interests.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Dog Behaviorist jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Dog Behaviorist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Behaviorist jobs? The most popular types of Dog Behaviorist jobs are:
Doggy Daycare Group Attendant

Doggy Daycare Group Attendant

Playful Pups Retreat

Elizabethtown, PA โ€ข On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Full-time, Part-time

PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Playful Pups Retreat in Elizabethtown, PA is looking for a motivated, reliable, and compassionate Dog Daycare โ€“ Animal Care Attendant to help supervise and care for the dogs in our facility.

Are you dependable, patient, and hardworking? Do dogs bring out your best self? Are you goal-oriented and energized by a fast-paced, team-driven work environment? Would you enjoy building a career in the pet care, dog daycare, or animal care industry with a company that values reliability, professionalism, and growth? If that sounds like you, we'd love to meet you!


Why You'll Enjoy Working With Us

This hands-on animal care and dog daycare position offers a competitive hourly wage of $14โ€“$15 per hour, based on experience. In addition, we offer excellent benefits, including:

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

  • Insurance options

  • Flexible scheduling

  • Employee discounts

  • The option to bring your dog to work

  • Company-provided shirts

  • Pet first aid training and ongoing educational opportunities

If you're searching for a rewarding pet care job where you can work directly with dogs every day, this may be the perfect opportunity.


About Playful Pups Retreat

Playful Pups Retreat is a premier pet resort and dog daycare facility dedicated to providing a true home away from home for every dog in our care. Whether visiting for the day or staying for an extended vacation, our guests receive top-quality care in a fun, safe, and structured environment.

We focus on enrichment, exercise, and socialization to support both mental and physical well-being, along with confidence building, training, and-of course-lots of belly rubs and cuddles. Because every dog is different, we take the time to understand each pup's individual needs and personality to deliver personalized, high-quality care.

Our team is upbeat, reliable, hardworking, and knowledgeable about dog behavior. We foster a supportive, goal-oriented workplace and believe in promoting from within, offering growth opportunities for dedicated team members who take pride in their work.


What a Day Looks Like

As a Dog Daycare โ€“ Animal Care Attendant, you'll spend your day supervising group play in our yards and ensuring dogs are interacting safely, confidently, and positively.

Your responsibilities will include:

  • Supervising structured dog playgroups

  • Leading enrichment activities and exercise

  • Practicing basic training and leadership techniques

  • Monitoring dog behavior and maintaining safe play environments

  • Providing calm, consistent guidance to the dogs

  • Bathing dogs when needed after a full day of play

  • Cleaning and sanitizing play areas and facility spaces

  • Supporting your team to maintain a safe and organized environment

This role requires strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to stay focused and productive throughout your shift.

You'll take pride in knowing your work directly improves the health, happiness, and safety of the dogs in our care.


Qualifications
  • Comfortable working with animals and dogs of all sizes

  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions

  • Comfortable with cleaning and all aspects of pet care (including dirt and odors)

  • Strong work ethic and reliability

  • Ability to stay active and engaged throughout the shift

  • Positive attitude and team-oriented mindset

  • Goal-driven and motivated to learn and grow

Previous dog daycare, kennel attendant, pet care, or animal care experience is a plus, but not required - we are happy to train the right candidate.

If you're a hardworking, dependable individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and loves dogs, this role could be a great fit.


Schedule

This position may be full-time or part-time, depending on availability.

Full-time: 35โ€“40 hours per week
Part-time: Approximately 16โ€“32 hours per week

Shifts are generally 8 hours long between 6:30 AM and 7:00 PM, with shorter shifts available based on staffing needs. Flexible scheduling is offered to help support work-life balance.


Ready to Apply?

If you feel this entry-level animal care and dog daycare position is right for you, please complete our quick, 3-minute mobile-friendly application. We're excited to connect with motivated individuals who are ready to make a difference in the lives of dogs every day.


Please Note: Physical Requirements

Working in a pet care environment is physically demanding. Team members must be able to stand for long periods and, depending on the role, spend extended time outdoors in various weather conditions. Daily cleaning and sanitizing are required to maintain a safe environment for pets and staff.

Handling dogs of all sizes is an essential part of the job and may include bending, lifting dogs over 50 lbs, managing strong or energetic dogs, and maintaining control in an active setting. Twisting, bending, lifting supplies, or moving equipment may also be required. All team members must follow established safety policies and procedures at all times.

Before applying, please carefully consider whether you can meet these physical requirements

Location: Elizabethtown, PA 17022


Job Posted by ApplicantPro