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Entry Level Dog Behaviorist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shift Manager

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Shift Manager

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/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 ...

... Dog Walking Apprentice to join our growing pet-care team. This is an entry-level position with a ... behavior, body language, physical condition, and surroundings • Making sound decisions when ...

New

Pet Resort Technician

Livermore, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $16.50/hr

This is an entry level position; previous experience working with animals is preferred, but not ... Must be comfortable working with ALL breeds of dogs, cats, and other small animals. Position ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Dog Behaviorist information

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$44K

$52.5K

$59.5K

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

As of Sep 3, 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 is an entry level dog behaviorist?

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:

Doggie Daycare Cleaner - Housekeeper

Playful Pups Retreat

Elizabethtown, PA • On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Full-time, Part-time

PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Playful Pups Retreat in Elizabethtown, PA is looking to hire a part-time Doggie Daycare "Housekeeper" to maintain our pet care facility. Are you an animal lover? Would you like to work in a cheerful, fun environment? Do you want to develop your housekeeping skills in a fulfilling entry-level position? If so, please read on!This cleaning position earns a competitive wage of $14.00 - $16.00/hour. We provide fantastic benefits and perks, including paid time off (PTO), insurance through AFLAC, scheduling flexibility, employee discounts, and the ability to bring your dog to work. Additionally, we offer company-paid shirts. If this sounds like the right entry-level housekeeping opportunity for you, apply today for a full- or part-time position! MAKE NO BONES ABOUT IT: PLAYFUL PUPS RETREAT ROCKS!At Playful Pups Retreat, our goal is to be the best home away from home for each pet. We are a premier pet resort that is committed to providing a fun, healthy, and nurturing environment for furry friends while owners are away for the day or for vacation. Our focus is on enrichment and exercise to provide mental and physical stimulation as well as ongoing socialization, training, and confidence building. And, of course, a lot of belly rubs and snuggles! We recognize that each dog is an individual with a unique personality. We get to know each pet so that we can provide individualized care.Each member of our team is positive, dependable, and knowledgeable about dog behavior. Our work environment is fun, happy, and supportive. We like to promote internally and offer our team a variety of growth opportunities. Additionally, we offer generous wages, benefits, and perks. YOUR IMPACT AS A HOUSEKEEPER - DOGGIE DAYCARE CLEANERAs a part-time Housekeeper - Doggie Daycare Cleaner, you keep our kennels clean, safe, and enjoyable for the furry friends staying at our facility. You get to work with a great team of amazing people as well as interact with a variety of friendly pooches. Depending on our needs, you clean and sanitize areas for the dogs as well as clean facility equipment and tools.You ensure that our facility is sparkling clean and a pleasant environment to work and stay in. As needed, you perform other housekeeping tasks such as doing dishes and washing laundry. You feel great about improving and maintaining our facility's appearance, and you love working in such a supportive and upbeat environment! HOW TO EXCEL AS A HOUSEKEEPER - DOGGIE DAYCARE CLEANERAbility to successfully work independently and with minimal supervisionComfort with working around dogs of all breeds and sizesAttention to detail, thorough in cleaning practicesPassion and pride in performing top notch cleaningDo you take pride in your work and give every job 100%? Are you extremely observant, thorough, and detail-oriented? Can you manage your time efficiently? Do you have strong problem-solving skills? Are you results-driven and motivated to succeed? If yes, you might just be perfect for this entry-level cleaning position! HOUSEKEEPER - DOGGIE DAYCARE CLEANER HOURSThis cleaning position will be part-time. You can typically expect to work 20 - 30 hrs/week with 4 hour shifts. Shift times available, will primarily be evenings from 3pm - 7pm, Mon - Fri. Some potential mid-day weekend shifts will be an option as well. No overnights required!The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required: to stand for extended periods and, depending on the role, spend significant time outdoors in various weather conditions. Demonstrate ability to sit, bend, twist, carry or lift up to 50lbs. Safely handling dogs of all sizes is an essential part of the job, which may include dogs pulling or jumping. Our facility prioritizes safety, and all team members are expected to always follow established policies and procedures.Before applying, please carefully consider whether you can meet these physical requirements. ARE YOU READY TO JOIN OUR TEAM?If you feel that you would be right for this entry-level cleaning and housekeeping job, please fill out our initial 3-minute, mobile-friendly application. We look forward to meeting you!Playful Pups Retreat is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.Location: 17022
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