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Working Dog Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Downtown Dog Lounge

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Comfortable working within close proximity to approximately 30 dogs in an enclosed park * Desire to develop a thorough understanding of dog behavior * Quick reaction time to unpredictable situations

Downtown Dog Lounge LLC

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Comfortable working within close proximity to approximately 30 dogs in an enclosed park * Desire to develop a thorough understanding of dog behavior * Quick reaction time to unpredictable situations

Downtown Dog Lounge LLC

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Comfortable working within close proximity to approximately 30 dogs in an enclosed park * Desire to develop a thorough understanding of dog behavior * Quick reaction time to unpredictable situations

Off Leash K9 Training

Professional Dog Trainer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$50K - $95K/yr

If you thrive on connecting with people, marketing yourself, and working with dogs of all breeds and sizes, we want to hear from you! Why Off Leash K9 Training? Off Leash K9 Training is one of the ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Professional Dog Trainer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$50K - $95K/yr

If you thrive on connecting with people, marketing yourself, and working with dogs of all breeds and sizes, we want to hear from you! Why Off Leash K9 Training? Off Leash K9 Training is one of the ...

Bowie Barker Seattle

Lead Dog Groomer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Why You'll Love Working Here: · Calm, clean, modern work environment · Hydraulic tables + walk-up tubs (no 50lb lifting required!) + force dryers · Supportive, respectful, dog-obsessed team · ...

Bowie Barker Seattle

Lead Dog Groomer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Why You'll Love Working Here: · Calm, clean, modern work environment · Hydraulic tables + walk-up tubs (no 50lb lifting required!) + force dryers · Supportive, respectful, dog-obsessed team · ...

Bowie Barker Seattle

Lead Dog Groomer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Why You'll Love Working Here: · Calm, clean, modern work environment · Hydraulic tables + walk-up tubs (no 50lb lifting required!) + force dryers · Supportive, respectful, dog-obsessed team · ...

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All JobsWorking Dog JobsWorking Dog Jobs in Seattle, WA

Working Dog information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do working dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for working dog in Seattle, WA is $16.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.79 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 Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Working Dog jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Working Dog jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Working Dog jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Working Dog job openings:

Working Dog jobs near you
Infographic showing various Working Dog job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,585 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Dog Handler

Downtown Dog Lounge

Seattle, WA • On-site

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Overview & Purpose
The Dog Handler is responsible for providing direct care for our dogs, as well as their health and safety while on-site, resulting in exceptional customer service and high-quality pet care.
A Week in the Life of a Dog Handler
The following is a list of general job responsibilities for the Dog Handler position. Please note that this list is not all-inclusive and may be amended to meet changing business needs.
Daily Operations:
  • Live out and be a positive advocate for Downtown Dog Lounge's safety culture
  • Understand and uphold the Purpose and Core Values of the business in actions and words
  • Actively oversee a designated dog park in person to ensure positive and safe dog interactions and mitigate escalating behaviors
  • Develop thorough knowledge and understanding of dog breeds and dog behavior
  • Follow all safety guidelines and protocols
  • Attend daily recap meetings, as well as read and understand recap daily

Spend Time With Dogs & Their Parents:
  • Provide exceptional customer service, including transparent communication
  • Develop strong relationships with customers (dogs and people)
  • Learn basic customer service, concierge, and front-facing role duties (answering the phone, replying to emails, posting in Slack, etc.)
  • Perform additional services such as dog walks, dog jogs, and one-on-one play with a ball
  • Become an proficient Gingr user and communicating with pet parents
  • Assist with dog rotations and mealtimes
  • Assist with running dogs at check-in and check-out

Support with Cleaning:
  • Clean up after dogs
  • Cleanliness of the location
  • Perform additional cleaning and disinfection duties including, but not limited to, taking out the garbage, mopping, cleaning crates and surfaces, laundry, etc.

Support the Team:
  • Uphold DDL Purpose and Values, communicating clearly, openly, honestly, and kindly
  • Communicate and participate as part of the team
  • Attend periodic required trainings and All Team Meetings
  • Mentor new team members as assigned
  • Perform other daily tasks as assigned by the Pack Leader and/or Supervisors
  • Cross-train for other positions within the company over time (concierge, pack leader, trainer, bather, etc.)

Downtown Dog Lounge is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We look forward to your application.
Requirements
Experience and Education:
  • Minimum of High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent
  • Must be 18 years of age to work independently in the dog parks

Required Skills and Abilities:
  • Comfortable working within close proximity to approximately 30 dogs in an enclosed park
  • Desire to develop a thorough understanding of dog behavior
  • Quick reaction time to unpredictable situations
  • Comfortable working in a loud environment
  • Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
  • Comfortable standing for 8 hours at a time
  • Able to lift 45 pounds
  • Must be flexible and will be expected to be available to work weekends, evenings, and during holidays

Salary Description
$21.30 / hour - $22.87 / hour, based on experience

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