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Working Dog Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PET FOODIE LA

Dog Bather

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Fun Working Environment * Interact with dogs Full Time & Part Time Available Job Summary We are looking for an experienced Dog Bather to join the team at our busy groomers. You will bathe dogs of all ...

Besties DogSpa

Dog Groomer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

... working as a pet groomer or in a related field is preferred - Knowledge of different dog breeds and their specific grooming requirements - Ability to handle and restrain pets of various sizes and ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Palm Springs, CA · On-site

We provide the training, marketing, and support; you will be the Trainer for the OLK9 Palm Springs , CA location working one on one with dogs and their human parents! Responsibilities will include ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Palm Springs, CA · On-site

We provide the training, marketing, and support; you will be the Trainer for the OLK9 Palm Springs , CA location working one on one with dogs and their human parents! Responsibilities will include ...

Dogromat Pet Groomers LLC

Dog Groomer

Marina Del Rey, CA · On-site

$26/hr

If you love working with dogs and take pride in making every pup look and feel their best, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Come be part of a fun, pet-loving environment where your skills ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Dogromat Pet Groomers LLC

Dog Groomer

Marina Del Rey, CA · On-site

$26/hr

If you love working with dogs and take pride in making every pup look and feel their best, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Come be part of a fun, pet-loving environment where your skills ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Monterey, CA · On-site

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Carmel, CA · On-site

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Monterey, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Salinas, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Salinas, CA · On-site

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Dogromat Pet Groomers LLC

Dog Groomer

Marina Del Rey, CA · On-site

$26/hr

If you love working with dogs and take pride in making every pup look and feel their best, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Come be part of a fun, pet-loving environment where your skills ...

K9 City

Dog Groomer

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$27K - $34K/yr

Comfortable working with dogs of all sizes and breeds. * Knowledge of breed-specific grooming styles is preferred. * Ability to recognize signs of stress, illness, or injury in dogs. * Excellent ...

Dogtopia

Dog Groomer

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$4.0K - $7.0K/mo

Comfortable working with dogs of all sizes and temperaments * Ability to stand for extended periods and safely lift or assist dogs as needed * Strong communication and customer-service skills

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Carmel, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Morgan Hill, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsWorking Dog JobsWorking Dog Jobs in California

Working Dog information

See California salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do working dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for working dog in California is $14.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $15.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a working dog?

Working dogs are specially trained canines that perform tasks to assist humans. These tasks can include herding livestock, assisting people with disabilities, searching for missing persons, detecting drugs or explosives, and providing protection or security. Breeds commonly used as working dogs include German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Belgian Malinois. Their intelligence, strength, and trainability make them well-suited for demanding jobs. Working dogs require specialized training and ongoing care to ensure they can perform their duties effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a working dog?

To thrive as a Working Dog, strong obedience, physical fitness, and specialized training for tasks such as detection, herding, or service are essential, typically supported by breed suitability and certification from recognized organizations. Mastery of specific training tools, scent detection systems, or harnesses is often required depending on the working role. High levels of focus, adaptability, and a calm temperament set exceptional working dogs apart. These skills and qualities ensure that working dogs can reliably and safely perform critical tasks that support humans in various professional environments.

What are some common challenges faced by handlers working with professional working dogs, and how can they be addressed?

Handlers of professional working dogs, such as those in law enforcement, search and rescue, or service roles, often encounter challenges like building strong handler-dog communication, maintaining the dog's motivation and focus, and ensuring their well-being in demanding environments. Addressing these challenges involves consistent training, positive reinforcement techniques, and regular health check-ups for the dog. Handlers also benefit from ongoing professional development to stay updated on best practices and to foster a deep, trusting partnership with their canine colleague.

What is the difference between Working Dog vs Security Guard?

AspectWorking DogSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsTraining certifications, obedience and specialized skillsSecurity license, background check
Work EnvironmentOutdoor and indoor, active, often in patrols or search tasksIndoor/outdoor, stationary or patrol duties
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement, private security, militaryPrivate security firms, corporate, residential
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, training, and capabilitiesJob requirements, licensing, duties

Working dogs are specially trained animals used in law enforcement, military, or search and rescue, requiring specific certifications and active work environments. Security guards are human personnel responsible for surveillance and protection, often needing security licenses. While both roles focus on safety, working dogs perform physical tasks with specialized training, whereas security guards provide human oversight and monitoring.

Do working dogs get paid?

Working dogs themselves do not receive payment, as they are animals. However, their handlers or trainers are typically paid employees, often working in law enforcement, search and rescue, or service roles, and may earn wages or salaries based on their employment agreements.

What are popular job titles related to Working Dog jobs in California?

For Working Dog jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Working Dog jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Working Dog jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Working Dog jobs?

Cities in California with the most Working Dog job openings:

Working Dog jobs near you
Infographic showing various Working Dog job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,125 per year, or $14 per hour.

Dog Bather

PET FOODIE LA

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Fun Working Environment
  • Interact with dogs
Full Time & Part Time Available
Job Summary
We are looking for an experienced Dog Bather to join the team at our busy groomers. You will bathe dogs of all sizes and temperaments to ensure they look their best. Additional responsibilities may include cleaning kennels, brushing, and trimming nails. If you are reliable, have great time management skills, and have a love for dogs, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities 
  • Prepare dogs for grooming 
  • Bathe dogs and provide other cleaning and grooming services such as ear and teeth cleaning
  • Adhere to strict sanitary and cleaning procedures
  • Ensure the safety of the dogs at all times
  • Clean kennels or grooming areas, as required
Qualifications
  • Comfortable working with all breeds of dogs
  • Ability to stand for long periods and lift large dogs
  • Attention to detail
  • Team player
  • Able to communicate effectively with coworkers and dog owners