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Service Dog Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through district 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 · 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 Bather

Rockville, MD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

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

Mid Day Dog Walker

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Provide basic grooming 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 ...

Dog Groomer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$24K - $36K/yr

Experienced Dog Groomer Wanted, Set Days, Established Luxury Clientele Puppy Luv Pet Services is a boutique luxury pet care company serving Arlington, Alexandria, and the Washington DC area. Since ...

Dog Groomer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$24K - $36K/yr

Free uniforms Experienced Dog Groomer Wanted, Set Days, Established Luxury Clientele Puppy Luv Pet Services is a boutique luxury pet care company serving Arlington, Alexandria, and the Washington DC ...

Crazy about Canines? We're Looking for Top Dogs Interested in Career Growth. Want a job you'll love ... You will also provide excellent client service and support daily facility operations. As a front ...

Dog Groomer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$24K - $36K/yr

Experienced Dog Groomer Wanted, Set Days, Established Luxury Clientele Puppy Luv Pet Services is a boutique luxury pet care company serving Arlington, Alexandria, and the Washington DC area. Since ...

Promoting the center's full range of services, including veterinary care, grooming, daycare, and boarding. What We're Looking For: * Passion for dogs and knowledge of basic animal behavior.

Dog Bather at BARK+BOARDING

Falls Church, VA

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Ability to perform a la carte grooming services which may include nail clipping/grinding, ear ... Dogs requiring muzzle, dogs who may need sedatives prior to grooming etc. * Maintain a clean and ...

Crazy about Canines? We're Looking for Top Dogs Interested in Career Growth. Want a job you'll love ... You will also provide excellent client service and support daily facility operations. As a front ...

You will also provide excellent client service and support daily facility operations. As a front ... Ability to effectively interact with clients and dogs in a high-volume, fast-paced environment

Dog Daycare Playroom Attendant

Herndon, VA · 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 ...

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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 Jun 22, 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 suggesting that puppies should be fed seven times a day until they are three months old, then transitioned to three meals a day until six months, and finally to two meals a day as adults. For service dogs, consistent training, socialization, and proper nutrition are essential for their development and performance. This rule helps ensure proper growth and health during different stages of a service dog's life.

What is the most common service dog job?

The most common service dog job is assisting individuals with mobility impairments by retrieving objects, opening doors, or providing stability. These dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that help their handlers maintain independence and safety in daily activities.

Does lupus qualify for a service dog?

Service dogs can be trained to assist individuals with lupus if the condition significantly impairs daily functioning, such as managing symptoms or alerting to medical issues. The qualification depends on the individual's specific needs and a healthcare professional's documentation; the dog must be trained to perform tasks related to the disability. Certification and training are essential for the dog to be recognized as a service animal under the law.

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 jobs can you bring your service dog to?

Service dogs are allowed in most workplaces, including offices, retail stores, restaurants, and public transportation, as they assist individuals with disabilities. Employers are required to make reasonable accommodations, and service dogs must be well-trained to work in various environments. However, some restrictions may apply in certain settings for health or safety reasons.

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 popular job titles related to Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA? For Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 40% Full Time, 56% Part Time, and 2% 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.
Dog Trainer

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Petco rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 627 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 716 rated retailers


Job description

Want to help pets live their best lives?

We're proud to be where the pets go and where thepet peoplego. If you want to make a real difference, create an exciting career path, feel welcome to be your whole self and nurture your wellbeing,Petco is the place for you.

Our core values capture that spirit as we work to improve lives by doing what's right for pets and people.

  • Pet First - Protect & Empower.All pets shouldLive their Best Life.We put the needs of pets and pet parents at the center of everything we do.

  • Foster the Fun - Connect & Bond.OurPassionfor pets brings us together! We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through district experiences, products, and services.

  • Let's Go! Own & Commit.We are stronger asOne Petco team.We bring our unique superpowers and champion authenticity in everyone to drive success.

About Petco:

We're proud to be"where the pets go"to find everything they need to live their best lives for more than 60 years - from their favorite meals and toys, to trusted supplies and expert support from people who get it, because we live it. We believe in the universal truths of pet parenthood - the boundless boops, missing slippers, late night zoomies and everything in between. And we're here for it. Every tail wag, every vet visit, every step of the way. We are29,000+strong and together we nurture the pet-human bond in more than1,500Petco stores across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico,250+Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics and eight distribution centers. In 1999, we foundedPetco Love. Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately7 million animalsthrough in-store adoption events.

Position Overview

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their dog companions. Your expertise in modern dog training techniques and positive reinforcement methods will help pet parents develop well-behaved, happy, and healthy dogs. You will provide one-on-one training sessions, group classes, and offer advice on basic training, environmental management, and customized training plans to address specific training goals. In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the health and wellness of pets by providing recommendations on healthy nutrition, world class services and essential supplies.

Position Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

The Dog Trainer role consists of 2 core responsibilities:

Provide World Class Dog Training Services

  • Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor.
  • Complete all assigned Workday Learning modules and DTIP Student Workbook materials per the DTIP roadmap.
  • Recommend and sell appropriate dog training classes, training, and supplies to ensure pet parents and their dogs have the necessary resources for a successful dog training experience.
  • Keep accurate records of training sessions, progress, and pet parents' feedback.
  • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
  • Work cross functionally with the grooming and veterinary teams to provide holistic whole health solutions for all pet parents.
  • Complete and apply ongoing training programs to maintain a high level of expertise in the role.

Provide 360-Degree Solutions for all Petco Guests

  • Provide an outstanding guest experience by actively engaging with guests in the recommendation and selection of merchandise and services in accordance with their identified needs.
  • Generate future business through a deep understanding of the guest and their pet(s) and connection to our digital platforms.
  • Demonstrate a high level of awareness and knowledge for the health, welfare, and proper handling of all animals.
  • Perform related duties to support the Pet Care Center in achieving its performance goals.
  • Ensure merchandise is stocked, priced, and displayed to enhance the shopping experience for pet parents.
  • Complete cash register transactions and support guests with their OMNI shopping experience as needed.
  • Adhere to established operational guidelines, policies, and procedures.
  • Promote a positive culture of teamwork, inclusion, and collaboration.
  • Complete other duties and special projects as assigned.
  • Evaluate guest inquiries and refer to the Leader on Duty as needed.

Other Essential Duties

  • UTILIZE SELLING BEHAVIORS. You're the key to providing an amazing guest experience within our Pet Care Center Locations. Utilizing the behaviors within our Sales Model is critical to being able to identify and solve for their needs both today and in the future.
  • CONTRIBUTE TO A SAFE ENVIRONMENT. You'll be empowered through our training programs to maintain our safety protocols. Bottom line, the safety of partners, guests and pets is our #1 priority.
  • BE A PART OF A COLLABORATIVE CULTURE. Being a great teammate is key to creating a culture that is centered around solving for the health and wellness needs of pets.
  • ENGAGE IN YOUR CAREER. As you develop your skills and knowledge, you will have the opportunity to participate in developmental programs to support your continued growth throughout your career.

Certification Requirements

  • Stage 1: All candidates are required to complete the 'Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP)' to become Petco Certified Dog Trainer consisting of the following:
    • Dog Training Apprentice: 6-weeks weeks of instructor led learning and development.
  • Stage 2: Dog Trainer: Successfully run and grow the dog training business in one of Petco's Pet Care Centers with local and national marketing support, with access to internal partner resources, networking, and client acquisition through our state-of-the-art online booking and scheduling systems.
  • Stage 3: Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.
  • Note: Approved candidates with prior experience that can pass both skill and knowledge assessments may be eligible for accelerated training.

Basic Qualifications

  • Passion for animal care, training, and welfare and a genuine interest for improving the lives of pets and their pet parents.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with pet parents and provide clear instructions, demonstrations and applicable selling techniques.
  • Demonstrated ability to handle and work with dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds in a safe and humane manner.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities effectively.
  • Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed to accommodate the training schedule and store operations.
  • Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift heavy objects (up to 50 pounds) associated with dog training equipment and supplies.
  • Familiarity with computer systems and software to manage training records, schedules, and communication with pet parents.

Supervisory Responsibility

  • None

Starting Rate:

$14.00

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