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Lead Dog Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Dog Stop - Bucktown

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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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How much do lead dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 medical expertise and advanced degrees. These roles require specialized training, certifications, and often involve working in clinics or hospitals, with salaries varying based on experience and location.
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
Infographic showing various Lead Dog job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 9% Full Time, 71% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,524 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Dog Handler / Dog Care Manager

Dog Handler / Dog Care Manager

The Dog Stop - Bucktown

Chicago, IL • On-site

$16.60/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

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Job description

The Dog Stop® is looking for energetic Canine Handlers, dubbed "Canine Companions," to join our team. We prefer to promote from within, so starting out Handling and becoming reliable results in more hours, and eventually more responsibilities and pay.

The Role

Our Handlers care for and supervise dogs in daycare and boarding, ensuring their safety, well-being, and enrichment. While the role is relatively straightforward, it requires our handlers to prioritize dog safety above all else; and maintain cleanliness as a close second. This is a highly active, physical role, and not just sitting around playing with or petting dogs. This role was previously referred to as a “Runner” and all applicants should expect being on their feet all day, racking up over 10k steps.

Applicants must be available to work at least one weekend shift (Saturday or Sunday). Our facility operates 7 days a week to provide the best care for our pups, so weekend coverage is essential, and required.

Job Responsibilities Include

  • Monitor and interact with groups of dogs to ensure safety and positive behavior
  • Spot and address early signs of stress or conflict among dogs
  • Provide enrichment, exercise, and basic training during play sessions
  • Clean play areas, kennels, and equipment routinely throughout shifts
  • Record and report incidents, health issues, and behavioral notes
  • Assist in feeding, administering medication, and transitioning dogs between activities
  • Deliver excellent customer service to pet owners

The Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Prior experience handling dogs in a daycare, kennel, shelter, or similar setting ideal.
  • Physically able to stand, walk, clean, and lift throughout your shift
  • Strong observation, teamwork, and communication skills
  • Energetic team player who thrives in a dynamic environment
  • Must be reliable, detail-oriented, and passionate about dog care
  • Ideal Experience = Minimum 6 months of hands-on experience working with groups of dogs in a professional setting

The Culture

We are a customer-focused, safety-first team dedicated to each dog’s happiness, health, and enrichment. Our environment values teamwork, transparency, and ongoing training.

The Benefits

  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Hands-on, industry-leading training - we have a whole program in place already!
  • Opportunities for relatively quick advancement.
  • Work with a supportive, dog-loving team
  • Discounts on retail (20%), Free Employee Dog Daycare while working (FT only), Discounted Boarding, Discounted Grooming

The Application Process

  • Apply online with your resume and ideally a brief cover letter describing your dog-handling experience.
  • Qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview and a hands-on trial shift within 1 week of that interview.
  • We Review applications, discuss any next steps, Hire, Train, Retain, and Retrain those willing to follow our lead
  • Only apply if you are ready to work, this is a physically demanding position working with live animals

Respond with your résumé today to join a great team working to provide the best dog care available in this booming industry!

Company Description

We're growing across Chicagoland, and this location is right in the heart of it all !