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Service Dog Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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 spa services as a Groomer. We have ...

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 spa services as a Groomer. We have ...

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 Dog Bather. 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 Dog Bather. Extensive ...

Dog Sitter

Arlington, VA ยท 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 ...

Dog Sitter

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$25/hr

Professional Dog Sitter & Dog Walker- Washington DC Area Do you love dogs and enjoy working ... Service Types * Walks: 30-90 minutes (1-3x daily) * Drop-ins: 30 / 45 / 60 minutes (1-3x daily)

Dog Sitter

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$25/hr

Professional Dog Sitter & Dog Walker- Bethesda, MD Area Do you love dogs and enjoy working ... Service Types * Walks: 30-90 minutes (1-3x daily) * Drop-ins: 30 / 45 / 60 minutes (1-3x daily)

The ideal candidate has experience grooming dogs of all breeds and sizes, maintains a calm demeanor with animals and provides excellent customer service to pet owners. Key Responsibilities: * Bathe ...

Company Description Run My Dog Do you love animals? Do you prefer to work independently? Enjoy the ... Excellent customer service and communication skills * Self-motivated with great time management

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 ...

Dog Bather

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Crazy about Canines? We're Looking for Top Dogs Interested in Career Growth. Want a job you'll love ... You will work closely with the Office Manager and Pet Care Team to complete bathing services ...

Dog Trainer

Fairfax, VA ยท 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 ...

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Service Dog information

See Reston, VA salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do service dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for service dog in Reston, VA is $14.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The 7 7 7 rule for dogs is a guideline for training and socialization, suggesting that puppies should be exposed to 7 different people, 7 different environments, and 7 different experiences within their first 7 weeks to promote well-rounded behavior. For service dogs, early socialization and consistent training are essential to ensure they perform reliably in various settings. Proper adherence helps develop a confident, adaptable service dog capable of assisting in diverse situations.

Can you get a service dog for lupus?

A service dog can be trained to assist individuals with lupus by performing tasks such as alerting to symptoms or providing physical support. To qualify, a person must have a diagnosed disability that substantially limits major life activities, and the dog must be trained to perform specific tasks related to that disability. Certification or registration is not required by law, but proper training from a reputable organization is essential.

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.

What are service dogs?

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 kind of jobs can service dogs do?

Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks to assist individuals with disabilities, such as guiding the visually impaired, alerting to medical conditions like seizures or low blood sugar, pulling a wheelchair, or providing balance support. They are trained to work in various environments and often require certification to ensure they meet standards for public access and task performance.

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.

Can I get a service dog for Crohn's disease?

Service dogs can be trained to assist individuals with Crohn's disease by alerting them to symptoms or helping with tasks during flare-ups. Certification and training are required to ensure the dog can perform specific tasks related to the condition, and a healthcare professional's documentation is typically needed for approval. Proper training and legal considerations are essential for service dog placement and accommodation.
What job categories do people searching Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Service Dog jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Service Dog job openings:
Infographic showing various Service Dog job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,702 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
BALANCED DOG TRAINER & CERTIFIED PET PROFESSIONAL | Washington DC Metro Area

BALANCED DOG TRAINER & CERTIFIED PET PROFESSIONAL | Washington DC Metro Area

DC Dog Sitter

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Company Description
DC Dog Sitter is a leading provider of professional pet care services in the DC Metro area. Focused on disrupting the status quo and bringing a higher level of care and interaction, we believe in being outside, getting fresh air, swimming, dog adventures, running, playing, and doing hikes. DC Dog Sitter is redefining the pet care industry providing a hands-on, highly interactive, and engaging service that caters to each pet's unique personality and temperament.
DC Dog Sitter has been named by Washingtonian as 'Top Pet Professionals + Adventures' in the DC Metro Area. Our level of service and team of Certified Pet Professionals rank among the best in the DMV. Our people possess the perfect combination of professionalism, compassion, and attention to detail. Our overall mission is to enrich the lives of our furry companions by providing care for all stages. Our determination shows through in everything we do from hiring the best, most qualified people, to creating a dynamic work environment where ongoing educational opportunities to further enhance the level of pet care are a top priority.
What makes us special...
Washington, DC is one of the most pet-friendly cities in the nation. Additionally, you are in the hub of activity. Close to the Capitol, the Supreme Court, Library of Congress, and all of the employment, cultural, and entertainment benefits that DC provides. With this in mind, DC Dog Sitter caters to the needs of busy pet parents with demanding careers and lifestyles who desire the very best care and companionship for their furry companions.
Benefits include an hourly base plus commission, earned paid time off, and much more!
DC Dog Sitter is a member of the nation's leading nonprofit organization of professional pet care services, National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS). Additionally, DC Dog Sitter has been awarded best dog walkers and top pet professionals + adventures. Join our mission to Elevate The Care!
Job Description
Job Summary
The Balanced Dog Trainer and Certified Pet Professional is responsible for conducting one-on-one and group training sessions with clients' dogs. The Dog Trainer's responsibilities include evaluating dogs' dispositions and temperaments, providing regular progress updates to clients, and teaching clients how to reinforce good behavior. The Balanced Dog Trainer should also be able to answer clients' questions regarding training, behavioral issues, and identify the best method of training for a particular pup.
Dog Trainer Responsibilities:
Consulting with clients to discuss behavioral concerns and training needs.
Identifying additional behavioral concerns and communicating them to clients.
Developing suitable training plans for dogs and documenting their progress.
Teaching dogs to obey basic commands using various training techniques that are best suited to each dog's personality and attributes.
Implementing appropriate training programs to address and resolve problem areas, including aggression, separation anxiety, hyperactivity, and biting.
Teaching clients appropriate training methods to enforce and maintain behaviors and skills learned by their dogs during training sessions.
Contacting clients to schedule training appointments, verify bookings, and provide updated information specific to their situation.
Reports to Administration through General Manager.
The Balanced Dog Trainer and Certified Pet Professional assumes an active role in delivering excellent pet training services. She/he is responsible for meeting defined goals and expectations, complying with DCDS policies and procedures, playing a supportive role to the team, and having a great time with each furry friend and assignment.
Balanced Dog Trainer
Various Locations in the DC Metro Area (DMV), Washington, DC, United States
Description
SCHEDULE: Part-time to Full-time hours available
SHIFT: Monday to Friday, with occasional mornings, evenings, and weekends
Balanced Dog Trainer
Part-Time, Monday to Friday, Flexible according to group training schedule and individual training schedule
DC Dog Sitter - Various Locations in the DC Metro Area
Washington, DC

Qualifications
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree is Preferred
  • Certification through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) is advantageous.
  • Be 21 years or older
  • One to Three Years of Experience in the pet professional field
  • License/Certification (Specify) or ability to complete our Certification Program (paid by DCDS)
  • Sound knowledge of dog training techniques as well as animal behavior and body language
  • Proven experience working as a Dog Trainer
  • Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and time management skills
  • Strong dog handling skills
  • Effective communication skills
  • A love for dogs and helping pets to live their best life
  • Patient and enthusiastic
  • Available according to group training classes as well as individual sessions
  • Be available some holidays and weekends
  • Possess great communication skills and understand the importance of complete and grammatically correct sentences and timely responses
  • Must love dogs!
  • Have excellent references
  • Have your own mobile/smartphone with the ability to text, email, and send photos

Balanced Dog Trainer
Various Locations in the DC Metro Area, Washington, DC, United States
Description
SCHEDULE: Part-time to Full-time
SHIFT: Flexible according to group training classes and individual training
Balanced Dog Trainer
Part-Time Days, Monday to Friday, Flexible according to the training schedule
DC Dog Sitter - Various Locations in the DC Metro Area
Washington, DC
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.