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Lead Dog Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pet Pros

Lead Groomer

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Job Summary We are seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Dog Groomer to provide high-quality grooming services and to offer leadership, coaching, and technical ...

The Dog Stop - Bucktown

Be Seen First

Dog Handler / Dog Care Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60/hr

The Dog Stop ® is looking for energetic Canine Handlers, dubbed "Canine Companions," to join our ... lead * Only apply if you are ready to work, this is a physically demanding position working with ...

The Dog Stop - Bucktown

Be Seen First

Dog Handler / Dog Care Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60/hr

The Dog Stop ® is looking for energetic Canine Handlers, dubbed "Canine Companions," to join our ... lead * Only apply if you are ready to work, this is a physically demanding position working with ...

DOGS INC

Service Dog Instructor

Palmetto, FL

Lead daily training routes, task sessions, and real-world exposures. * Observe behavioral or medical concerns and communicate them promptly. * Collaborate with the Program Director and Guide Dog ...

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Lead Dog information

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$10

$25

$72

How much do lead dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead dog in the United States is $25.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lead Dog vs Guide Dog?

AspectLead DogGuide Dog
Primary RoleLead and direct sled teams or groups in outdoor activities or competitionsAssist visually impaired individuals by guiding them safely
Required SkillsNavigation, teamwork, enduranceObedience, training, alertness
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, often in cold or rugged conditionsIndoor and outdoor, urban or rural settings
CertificationsTraining in sled dog handling, sometimes certifications in outdoor activitiesGuide dog training certification, mobility assistance training

While both Lead Dogs and Guide Dogs are trained animals that assist humans, Lead Dogs primarily lead sled teams in outdoor environments, requiring navigation skills and endurance. Guide Dogs, on the other hand, assist visually impaired individuals by guiding them safely through various settings. The roles differ in environment, training, and purpose, but both require specialized training and a strong bond with their handlers.

What is the highest paid job working with dogs?

The highest paid jobs working with dogs typically include professional dog trainers, veterinary surgeons, and animal behavior specialists, with veterinary surgeons often earning the most due to their advanced medical training and responsibilities. These roles require specialized skills, certifications, and often work in clinical or hospital settings, with salaries varying based on experience and location.

What job can I do if I love dogs?

If you love dogs, you can pursue jobs such as dog trainer, dog walker, pet groomer, or kennel assistant. These roles often require knowledge of canine behavior, physical activity, and sometimes certifications or licenses. Working with dogs typically involves outdoor or indoor environments and may require physical stamina and patience.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Lead Dog, in a professional or leadership context, typically does not have a standard salary of $4,000 per week without specific experience or industry. Generally, high-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree include skilled trades like commercial fishing, certain sales positions, or entrepreneurial ventures, but these often require specialized skills, certifications, or significant experience. Most jobs paying this amount weekly are either highly specialized or involve business ownership rather than traditional employment.

Is dog training a good career?

Dog training is a viable career that involves teaching dogs and their owners proper behavior and obedience. It requires knowledge of canine behavior, certification or experience, and often involves working in various environments such as homes, training centers, or outdoors. Success depends on skills, reputation, and the ability to build client relationships.
More about Lead Dog jobs
What states have the most Lead Dog jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Dog jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lead Dog jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Dog jobs are:
Lead Dog jobs near you
Lead Groomer

Lead Groomer

Pet Pros

Wheaton, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Dog Groomer to provide high-quality grooming services and to offer leadership, coaching, and technical direction to a team of groomers and bathers. This role combines hands-on grooming expertise with team development, quality control, and customer service excellence.
The ideal candidate is a skilled groomer with strong leadership abilities, a passion for pet care, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service and results.
Key Responsibilities
Grooming Services & Client Experience
  • Perform full-service grooming, including bathing, brushing, clipping, trimming, and breed-specific styling
  • Conduct thorough assessments of each dog's coat, skin, ears, nails, and overall condition
  • Recommend appropriate services, add-ons, and products based on pet needs
  • Clearly communicate grooming plans, pricing, and service expectations to pet parents
  • Maintain detailed records of grooming instructions and customer preferences
  • Notify pet owners when services are completed and provide ongoing communication as needed
  • Deliver exceptional customer service and ensure a positive salon experience

Leadership & Team Development
  • Provide day-to-day leadership, coaching, and technical guidance to groomers and bathers
  • Train and support skill development for bathers, and maintain grooming and bathing quality standards across the team
  • Perform regular quality checks on groomers and bathers
  • Participate in bi-weekly performance meetings and support team performance improvement
  • Address and resolve customer concerns, including making service corrections when needed

Operations & Performance
  • Maintain strong customer service standards and meet or exceed established goals
  • Adapt to changing priorities, including assisting with walk-in grooming services.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally with customers and team members

Pet Safety & Care
  • Ensure accuracy of release forms, kennel cards, and service documentation
  • Monitor pets for stress, health concerns, or behavioral changes and report as needed
  • Ensure kenneled pets are comfortable, have access to water, and are walked regularly
  • Communicate any health or safety concerns to management and pet owners

Salon Maintenance & Compliance
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized grooming environment.
  • Complete daily and weekly cleaning and sanitation tasks
  • Respond appropriately to any pet or employee incidents, ensuring proper care and reporting
  • Support additional salon duties as assigned by management

Qualifications
  • Minimum of 2 years of professional dog grooming experience required
  • Minimum of 2 years of professional bathing experience required
  • Associate's degree preferred

Skills and Abilities
  • Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills
  • Proficiency in a variety of grooming techniques, including clipping, trimming, hand-stripping, and breed-standard styling
  • Knowledge of grooming tools and equipment
  • Familiarity with dog breeds and grooming standards
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
  • Ability to complete a grooming skills assessment

Compensation & Benefits
  • Pay: Up to $20.00 per hour + up to 45% commission.
  • Strong earning potential with a competitive commission structure
  • Exclusive Professional Development Opportunity:

Participate in bi-weekly, hands-on mentorship and leadership development sessions with a multi-award-winning international competition groomer. With over 20 years of experience in advanced grooming techniques, salon leadership, and professional instruction, this mentorship offers a rare opportunity to elevate your craft, refine advanced skills, and grow as a leader in the grooming industry.
Work Environment
  • Fast-paced grooming salon environment
  • Frequent interaction with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments
  • Requires standing, bending, and lifting throughout the workday

This is more than just a grooming role; it's an opportunity to advance your career, maximize your earning potential, and learn from one of the best in the industry.

Apply