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Service Dog Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Dog Groomer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$24K - $36K/yr

Experienced Dog Groomer Wanted, Set Days, Part Time Position Puppy Luv Pet Services is a boutique pet care company serving Arlington, Alexandria, and the Washington DC area. Since 2012 we have built ...

Dog Daycare Attendant

Midlothian, VA ยท On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Previous customer service or reception experience is a bonus. * A love for dogs is a must! The essence of the job: * Answering calls and spreading the doggy joy. * Registering new clients.

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Dog Daycare Attendant

Midlothian, VA ยท On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Previous customer service or reception experience is a bonus. * A love for dogs is a must! The essence of the job: * Answering calls and spreading the doggy joy. * Registering new clients.

Dog Groomer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$24K - $36K/yr

Free uniforms Experienced Dog Groomer Wanted, Set Days, Part Time Position Puppy Luv Pet Services is a boutique pet care company serving Arlington, Alexandria, and the Washington DC area. Since 2012 ...

Dog Groomer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$24K - $36K/yr

Experienced Dog Groomer Wanted, Set Days, Part Time Position Puppy Luv Pet Services is a boutique pet care company serving Arlington, Alexandria, and the Washington DC area. Since 2012 we have built ...

Be Seen First

Dog Daycare Attendant

Midlothian, VA ยท On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Previous customer service or reception experience is a bonus. * A love for dogs is a must! The essence of the job: * Answering calls and spreading the doggy joy. * Registering new clients.

Dog daycare attendant

Chesapeake, VA ยท On-site

$11.25 - $14.25/hr

Do you love dogs and dream of spending your days surrounded by wagging tails and happy paws? Ruff ... Assisting with bathing and other pet services as required. What We're Looking For No prior ...

Dog Groomer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$24K - $36K/yr

Free uniforms Experienced Dog Groomer Wanted, Set Days, Part Time Position Puppy Luv Pet Services is a boutique pet care company serving Arlington, Alexandria, and the Washington DC area. Since 2012 ...

Dog Daycare Playroom Attendant

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Strong customer service skills are also required, as you will be interacting with the public as well. Minimum Requirements: *18 years of age or older *Able to interact in a positive way with all ...

Dog Daycare Playroom Attendant

Herndon, VA

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Strong customer service skills are also required, as you will be interacting with the public as well. Minimum Requirements: *18 years of age or older *Able to interact in a positive way with all ...

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services has an immediate opening for an energetic and organized individual to be the star of our playroom as a Canine Coach. Extensive ...

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services has an immediate opening for an energetic and organized individual to be the star of our playroom as a Canine Coach. Extensive ...

Showing results 41-60

Service Dog information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do service dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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:

Infographic showing various Service Dog job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,258 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Experienced Dog Groomer

Dogtopia of Purcellville

Purcellville, VA โ€ข On-site

$900/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description:

Dogtopia of Purcellville is expanding grooming and seeking a Premier Groomer who takes pride in craftsmanship, safety, and professionalism. This role is for experienced groomers who want a calm, structured environment and the opportunity to help shape a high-quality grooming program from the ground up.
 

ABOUT YOU:
• You are an experienced, professional groomer who produces consistent, high-quality work
• You prioritize dog safety, comfort, and humane handling above speed
• You value clear expectations, clean workspaces, and predictable schedules
• You work confidently on your own and collaboratively with a strong team
• You are selective about where you work — and expect professionalism in return
 

THE ENVIRONMENT:
• Award-winning Dogtopia location serving Loudoun County
• Temperament-screened, well-handled dogs
• Appointment-based grooming (no chaotic walk-ins)
• Dedicated grooming tub and table
• Drying crates and in-crate dryers
• Support from trained canine care staff
• Clean, organized, low-drama workplace
 

We currently offer bath and spa services and are expanding into haircuts and full grooms with the right groomer leading the way.
 

COMPENSATION & GUARANTEE:
• Commission: 50–55%, based on experience
• 60-Day Guaranteed Earnings: $900 per week minimum while you build your book
• If commission exceeds $900 in a given week, you are paid commission
• Predictable scheduling
• Free daycare for your dog while you work 

Requirements:

 PREFERRED (NOT REQUIRED):
• NDGAA, IPG, or AKC grooming or safety certifications
• Commitment to continuing education and professional development
 

REQUIREMENTS:
• Professional grooming experience
• Strong dog handling and safety awareness
• Able to lift 50 lbs and stand for extended periods
• Must absolutely LOVE dogs
 

Apply today to start a confidential conversation. We are selective — and intentional — about who joins our team.