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Service Dog Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Petco

Dog Trainer

Chester, VA · On-site

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Gloucester, VA · On-site

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

Crate Escape Pet Resort

Dog Groomer

Henrico, VA · On-site

$50 - $300/day

We are a full service salon. This starts as part time and has the potential to move to full time ... Comfortable working with dogs of all ages, sizes, and temperaments * Flexibility: our Resort is ...

Comforted Canine

Dog Sitter

Arlington, VA · On-site

$25/hr

Service Types * Walks: 30-90 minutes (1-3x daily) * Drop-ins: 30 / 45 / 60 minutes (1-3x daily ... Experienced with dog or cat care, especially in a pet sitting capacity * Confidently handle dogs ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Fairfax, VA

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Hampton, VA · On-site

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Chester, VA

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Gloucester, VA

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Hampton, VA · On-site

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

Metropawlitan Pet Sitters

Mid Day Dog Walker

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... services as needed, including brushing and cleaning paws. - Ensure that all dogs are safely secured before and after walks. - Communicate effectively with pet owners regarding their dog's behavior ...

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Service Dog information

See Virginia salary details

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How much do service dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for service dog in Virginia is $14.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $15.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a service dog?

Service dogs are specially trained canines that assist individuals with disabilities by performing specific tasks to help them navigate daily life. These tasks may include guiding people who are visually impaired, alerting individuals with hearing loss, pulling a wheelchair, or assisting with medical alerts such as seizures or low blood sugar. Service dogs are protected under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which allows them to accompany their handlers in most public places. They undergo extensive training to ensure good behavior and reliability. Service dogs are distinct from emotional support animals and therapy dogs due to their specialized training and legal rights.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a service dog handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Service Dog handler, you need a thorough understanding of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and specialized training in service dog protocols, typically supported by certifications from recognized organizations. Familiarity with training tools, positive reinforcement techniques, and relevant legal requirements such as the Americans with Disabilities Act is essential. Patience, consistency, and strong communication skills help build a reliable partnership and ensure effective task performance. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the service dog is well-prepared to support individuals with disabilities and maintain public safety.

What are some common challenges faced by service dog trainers and handlers in maintaining a service dog's performance in real-world environments?

Service dog trainers and handlers often encounter challenges such as ensuring the dog remains focused and responsive in distracting public settings, maintaining consistent training standards, and addressing any behavioral issues that may arise over time. Additionally, adapting the dog's training to the specific needs of the handler and keeping up with regular retraining sessions are crucial for long-term success. Collaboration with veterinary professionals and ongoing communication with the handler are also essential to support the dog's health and performance.

What is the difference between Service Dog vs Therapy Dog?

AspectService DogTherapy Dog
Required credentials/certificationsTraining certification, often ADA-compliantTraining for social interaction, certification varies
Work environmentAssists individuals with disabilities in public and private settingsProvides comfort and support in hospitals, schools, and nursing homes
Employer and industry usageIndividuals with disabilities, healthcare, public spacesHospitals, schools, therapy programs

Service Dogs are trained to assist individuals with disabilities and are protected by law to accompany their owners in public. Therapy Dogs are trained to provide emotional support and comfort in therapeutic settings. While both roles involve specialized training, Service Dogs have specific legal rights and certifications, whereas Therapy Dogs focus on emotional well-being in controlled environments.

How to become a service dog handler?

To become a service dog handler, individuals typically need to have a qualifying disability and undergo training to work effectively with a service dog. They often participate in specialized training programs to learn how to manage and care for the dog, and some may need to obtain certification or documentation depending on local laws. Building a strong bond and understanding the dog's tasks are essential components of the role.

What are some service dog jobs?

Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks to assist individuals with disabilities, such as guiding the visually impaired, alerting deaf individuals to sounds, retrieving objects, providing balance support, or alerting to medical conditions like seizures or low blood sugar. These dogs undergo specialized training and are often certified to perform their designated tasks in various environments. Their primary role is to enhance independence and safety for their handlers.

What are popular job titles related to Service Dog jobs in Virginia?

For Service Dog jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Service Dog jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Service Dog jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Service Dog jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Service Dog job openings:

Service Dog jobs near you
Infographic showing various Service Dog job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,258 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Dog Walker & Pet Sitter

Puppy Luv Pet Services

Arlington, VA • On-site

$16 - $24/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Puppy Luv Pet Services is currently seeking a dedicated part-time Dog Walker/Pet Sitter to join our team in the Arlington, Virginia and Washington, DC areas. This is an on-call position, with dog walkers responsible for providing daily exercise and walks for our clients' dogs, typically in 15 to 60-minute increments. In addition to walks, dog walkers may also be tasked with ensuring that each dog’s basic needs are met, including checking food and water supplies after exercise.
Alternative responsibilities include delivery of marketing material and refilling of dog treats to Puppy Luv's contracted apartment communities.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Pick up and drop off dogs from their homes
  • Understand special requests and conditions for each dog
  • Walk dogs outdoors in all weather conditions (anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes)
  • Ensure each dog is getting exercise and potty breaks
  • Ensure safety of the dogs you are walking and those (humans and dogs) around them
  • Remove pet waste
  • Maintain leadership of the pack of dogs (if walking multiple dogs at a time)
  • Take photos of the dogs (so human clients can see how they are doing)
  • Answer inquiries related to your service, clients ' dogs
  • Record which dog(s) you walked, how long the walks were, anything abnormal that you noticed during the walk.
  • Provide occasional house sitting as requested (dependent upon availability)
MINOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ensure security of their homes when picking up and dropping off
  • Give each dog love and attention
THE INDIVIDUAL IN THIS POSITION SHOULD HAVE THE FOLLOWING

  • Reliable transportation (car, SUV, etc.)
  • A friendly and engaging demeanor
  • The ability to be flexible with scheduling
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE JOB

Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED