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Working Dog Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

DogWalkingDC

Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

Arlington, VA · On-site

Working in VA will require reliable transportation Dog Walker and Pet Sitters Requirements and Qualifications: * Must have your own, reliable mode of transportation to perform the duties and ...

DogWalkingDC

Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

Arlington, VA · On-site

Working in VA will require reliable transportation Dog Walker and Pet Sitters Requirements and Qualifications: * Must have your own, reliable mode of transportation to perform the duties and ...

DogWalkingDC

Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

Arlington, VA

Working in VA will require reliable transportation Dog Walker and Pet Sitters Requirements and Qualifications: * Must have your own, reliable mode of transportation to perform the duties and ...

DogWalkingDC

Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

Arlington, VA · On-site

Working in VA will require reliable transportation Dog Walker and Pet Sitters Requirements and Qualifications: * Must have your own, reliable mode of transportation to perform the duties and ...

DogWalkingDC

Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

Arlington, VA

Working in VA will require reliable transportation Dog Walker and Pet Sitters Requirements and Qualifications: * Must have your own, reliable mode of transportation to perform the duties and ...

Dogtopia

Dog Daycare Attendant - Canine Coach

Arlington, VA · On-site

$15 - $19.43/hr

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services has an immediate opening ... You enjoy working in a collaborative harmonious teamwork environment. *If you are seeing yourself ...

Dogtopia

Dog Daycare Attendant - Canine Coach

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$16.10 - $19.43/hr

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services has an immediate opening ... You enjoy working in a collaborative harmonious teamwork environment. *If you are seeing yourself ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Dog Playtime Attendant

Fredericksburg, VA

$12.75 - $16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're looking for a motivated, reliable and responsible individual that enjoys working with people and dogs. We are a busy full service dog daycare/training center with a fun energetic environment. R ...

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All JobsWorking Dog JobsWorking Dog Jobs in Virginia

Working Dog information

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 Virginia?

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Working Dog jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Working Dog job openings:

Working Dog jobs near you
Infographic showing various Working Dog job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

DogWalkingDC

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

DogwalkingDC is currently hiring exceptional and experienced dog walker in the Arlington and Alexandria area of VA to join our wonderful team. DogwalkingDC is an established and well-loved company in the DMV area. 

Dog Walker Responsibilities:

  • Work weekdays, Mon - Friday from approx 10am - 4pm (depending on the amount of jobs per day) weekends and holidays available and optional, as stays vary based on client needs 
  • Enter the homes of clients and visit with their pets for varying lengths of time (usually 15 - 60 minutes each)
  • Walk pets as required 
  • Feed pets 
  • Check that pets have ample water supply and refill as necessary
  • Make sure no damage caused by pets in the absence of their owners
  • Confirm that if any potty accidents have occurred in the homes of our clients to clean up.
  • Communicate with clients and with management during visits.
  • Have knowledge of the Time to Pet App is a plus but is easy to learn.
  • Appropriate pet clean-up as required (IE. kitty litter scooping when sitting for a cat)   
  • Working in VA will require reliable transportation

Dog Walker and Pet Sitters Requirements and Qualifications:

  • Must have your own, reliable mode of transportation to perform the duties and responsibilities associated with this role
  • Must be extremely detail oriented
  • Able to follow detailed instructions
  • Must be responsible, reliable, and dependable
  • Must be timely and punctual 
  • Must be able to self-manage 
  • Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Must be compassionate about animals
  • Must feel comfortable working with and interacting with both small and large animals
  • Must be able to pass criminal background check

Apply