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Working Dog Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MIchigan Dog Training Inc.

DOG TRAINER

Plymouth, MI

$14 - $16/hr

In this exciting role, you will help dogs and their owners build strong bonds through effective training techniques while working in a supportive and enthusiastic environment. You will get the ...

MIchigan Dog Training Inc.

DOG TRAINER

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

In this exciting role, you will help dogs and their owners build strong bonds through effective training techniques while working in a supportive and enthusiastic environment. You will get the ...

NJ DOG BARBERS LLC

Dog Bather

Sayreville, NJ · On-site

$15.49 - $18/hr

Fun Working Environment * Interact with Pets 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 ...

Wing & Barrel Ranch

Be Seen First

On-Call Hunting Dog Trainer

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Wing & Barrel Ranch is seeking an experienced and passionate Hunting Dog Trainer to oversee the care, training, and performance of our working dogs, as well as support our member hunting experiences.

NJ DOG BARBERS LLC

Dog Bather

Sayreville, NJ · On-site

$15.49 - $18/hr

Fun Working Environment * Interact with Pets 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 ...

NJ DOG BARBERS LLC

Dog Bather

Sayreville, NJ · On-site

$15.49 - $18/hr

Fun Working Environment * Interact with Pets 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 ...

Jump Pet Sitting

Substitute Dog Walker

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Moms, servers, artists, Uber and Lyft drivers, bus drivers, retail workers, dog trainers, and retirees Here is what we ask you to do: Between the hours of 10am and 3pm Monday through Friday, you will ...

Tailchasers

Weekday Dog Walker

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Midday Dog Walker - Palatine, Arlington Heights, and Mount Prospect Company: Tailchasers Schedule ... availability, part-time workers, or retirees looking for rewarding, active work. Key ...

Smelly Dog

Dog Daycare Professional

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$14 - $15.50/hr

Enthusiastic about working with pets * Respectful towards dogs, employees, and clients * Ability to work in a team environment * Personable and able to effectively communicate with staff and ...

The Dog Wizard

Experienced Dog Trainer

West Chester, OH · On-site

$35K - $70K/yr

At The Dog Wizard, we are passionate about helping dogs and their owners build stronger, happier ... The ideal candidate is confident working with a wide variety of breeds, temperaments, and ...

The Dog Wizard

Experienced Dog Trainer

Bradenton, FL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Do you have experience working with dogs? * Do you have customer service experience? * Do you have ... experience working with clients one-on-one? * Do you need someone to tell you every step to ...

Tailchasers

Weekday Dog Walker

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Midday Dog Walker - Palatine, Arlington Heights, and Mount Prospect Company: Tailchasers Schedule ... availability, part-time workers, or retirees looking for rewarding, active work. Key ...

Smelly Dog

Dog Daycare Professional

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$14 - $15.50/hr

Enthusiastic about working with pets * Respectful towards dogs, employees, and clients * Ability to work in a team environment * Personable and able to effectively communicate with staff and ...

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Working Dog information

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$9

$14

$18

How much do working dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for working dog in the United States is $14.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $15.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to work with dogs as a career?

Working with dogs as a career often involves roles such as dog trainer, handler, or behaviorist, requiring knowledge of canine behavior, training techniques, and sometimes certifications. Experience with animals, physical fitness, patience, and good communication skills are essential, and many positions involve working outdoors or in kennels. Continuing education and specialized certifications can enhance job prospects in this field.

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 7 7 7 rule with dogs?

The 7 7 7 rule in working dog training refers to a guideline where a dog should be exposed to 7 different environments, 7 new people, and 7 different objects or stimuli each week to promote socialization and adaptability. This helps ensure the working dog remains confident and well-adjusted in various situations, which is essential for roles like search and rescue, police work, or service tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Working Dog, and why are they important?

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 jobs pay well working with dogs?

Working dog jobs that tend to pay well include police or military K-9 handlers, search and rescue dog trainers, and detection dog handlers, often requiring specialized training and certifications. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to the skills, responsibility, and physical demands involved, especially in law enforcement or security settings.

Do working dogs get paid?

Working dogs themselves do not receive payment, as they are animals performing tasks under the direction of their handlers. However, handlers, trainers, or organizations employing working dogs are typically paid for their services, training, and care. Compensation depends on the job, organization, and whether the handler is a professional or volunteer.

What are working dogs?

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 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.

More about Working Dog jobs
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What states have the most Working Dog jobs? States with the most job openings for Working Dog jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Working Dog jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Working Dog jobs are:
Working Dog jobs near you
DOG TRAINER

DOG TRAINER

MIchigan Dog Training Inc.

Plymouth, MI

$14 - $16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

About the Role:
Join Michigan Dog Training Inc. as a Dog Trainer, where your passion for canine companionship meets professional growth. In this exciting role, you will help dogs and their owners build strong bonds through effective training techniques while working in a supportive and enthusiastic environment. You will get the opportunity to train and care for pet dogs for their forever home and train Service Dogs to amplify a disabled person's life.

Responsibilities:
  • Conduct individual and group training sessions for dogs of all breeds and ages.
  • Develop customized training plans based on the specific needs of dogs and their owners.
  • Utilize all four quadrants of Learning Theory to encourage desired behaviors and remove undesired behaviors.
  • Monitor and assess dog behavior and progress throughout training programs.
  • Provide clients with guidance on dog care, behavior, and training techniques.
  • Maintain a clean and safe training environment for all participants.
  • Continuously update training methods to align with industry best practices.
  • Engage in ongoing professional development and training workshops.
Requirements:
  • Proven experience in dog training or a related field.
  • Strong communication skills to effectively interact with clients and their dogs.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
  • Patience, empathy, and a genuine love for dogs and their wellbeing.
  • Physical ability to handle dogs of various sizes and temperaments.
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
  • Flexible schedule to accommodate training sessions and dog care during weekdays and weekends.
About Us:
Michigan Dog Training Inc. has been serving the Plymouth, MI community for over 10 years, earning a reputation for excellence in dog training. Our clients love us for our personalized approach and proven results, while our employees appreciate the supportive atmosphere and opportunities for professional growth.