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Working Dogs Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$50K - $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 ...

Run My Dog, LLC

Dog Walker - Pet Sitter

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Company Description Run My Dog Do you love animals? Do you prefer to work independently? Enjoy the ... Be able to tolerate working in extreme (hot/cold) weather * Have a working smartphone and mobile ...

Playful Pack

Dog Daycare Attendant

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Free daycare for your dogs while working * Employee discount * Paid day off for your birthday * Flexible schedule * On-the-job training * Opportunities for advancement Work Location: In person ...

Crate Escape Pet Resort

Dog Groomer

Henrico, VA · On-site

$50 - $300/day

Comfortable working with dogs of all ages, sizes, and temperaments * Flexibility: our Resort is open for grooming Monday-Friday and (ideally) two Saturdays a month Qualifications: * At least 3 years ...

Crate Escape Pet Resort

Dog Groomer

Henrico, VA · On-site

$50 - $300/day

Comfortable working with dogs of all ages, sizes, and temperaments * Flexibility: our Resort is open for grooming Monday-Friday and (ideally) two Saturdays a month Qualifications: * At least 3 years ...

Playful Pack

Dog Daycare Attendant

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Free daycare for your dogs while working * Employee discount * Paid day off for your birthday * Flexible schedule * On-the-job training * Opportunities for advancement Work Location: In person ...

Metropawlitan Pet Sitters

Mid Day Dog Walker

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Do you enjoy spending time with dogs and cats? Have you ever had a yearn for a career in animal ... Then working as a professional pet sitter may be the position for you. If you meet all the criteria ...

DEEOHGEE LLC

K-9 Attendant (Dog lover)

Sterling, VA · On-site

$15/hr

... working with dogs Previous experience working in a dog daycare or kennel is a plus Ability to handle dogs of all sizes and breeds Good communication skills Ability to work independently and as part ...

DEEOHGEE LLC

K-9 Attendant (Dog lover)

Dulles, VA

$15/hr

... working with dogs • Previous experience working in a dog daycare or kennel is a plus • Ability to handle dogs of all sizes and breeds • Good communication skills • Ability to work ...

Heart + Paw

Dog Daycare Specialist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Play Coordinators ensure all our daycare dogs have a safe, clean, enriching, and low-stress environment to play a pivotal role in the daily operations of the center. Why You'll Love Working Here:

DEEOHGEE LLC

K-9 Attendant (Dog lover)

Dulles, VA

$15/hr

... working with dogs • Previous experience working in a dog daycare or kennel is a plus • Ability to handle dogs of all sizes and breeds • Good communication skills • Ability to work ...

Happy Tails Resort

Dog Daycare Attendant

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$13/hr

Must be able to complete all task of daycare worker * Answering phones * Checking dogs in and out * Feeding pups * Cleaning and setting up boarding rooms * Administering medications * Laundry

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All JobsWorking Dogs JobsWorking Dogs Jobs in Virginia

Working Dogs information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$13

$18

How much do working dogs jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for working dogs in Virginia is $13.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.92 and $15.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The 7 7 7 rule for working dogs refers to guidelines for training and handling, suggesting that dogs should be trained in 7-minute sessions, 7 times a day, over 7 days to establish consistent behavior. This approach helps ensure effective training, especially for service or working dogs, by maintaining short, frequent sessions that reinforce commands and skills. Proper training, socialization, and positive reinforcement are essential for working dogs to perform their duties reliably.

What jobs can you take your dog to work?

Working dogs such as service, therapy, or detection dogs are often allowed in workplaces that accommodate animals, including some offices, hospitals, and airports. Employers may require certifications, and handlers should ensure the environment is safe and suitable for the dog’s needs.

What is the highest paying job working with dogs?

The highest paying jobs working with dogs typically include specialized roles such as police or military K-9 handlers, search and rescue coordinators, and dog trainers with advanced certifications. These positions often require extensive training, experience, and sometimes security clearances, with salaries ranging from $50,000 to over $100,000 annually depending on the role and location.

What is the difference between Working Dogs vs Search and Rescue Dogs?

AspectWorking DogsSearch and Rescue Dogs
CertificationsVaries by role, often includes obedience and specialized trainingRequire specific SAR training certifications and certifications in tracking or scent detection
Work EnvironmentCan include farms, security, police, or service settingsPrimarily outdoor, disaster sites, wilderness, or urban search areas
Employer & IndustryEmployers include security firms, farms, police, and service organizationsTypically employed by rescue organizations, fire departments, or government agencies

While both Working Dogs and Search and Rescue Dogs are trained to perform specialized tasks, Working Dogs have a broader range of roles including security, service, and farm work, often in various environments. Search and Rescue Dogs focus specifically on locating missing persons in disaster or wilderness settings, requiring specialized scent detection training. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right training and career path for working with dogs in these fields.

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

To thrive as a Working Dog handler, you need expertise in animal behavior, training techniques, and a foundational understanding of canine health and safety, often supported by relevant certifications or experience in animal care. Familiarity with specialized equipment such as harnesses, leashes, GPS trackers, and obedience training tools is typically required. Patience, strong observational skills, and effective non-verbal communication are essential soft skills for building trust and ensuring proper teamwork with the dog. These competencies are crucial because they ensure the well-being of the working dog and the successful performance of specialized tasks in various 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 often encounter challenges such as maintaining the dog's focus in distracting environments, ensuring consistent training, and managing the physical and emotional well-being of the animal. Addressing these challenges requires ongoing training sessions, developing a strong bond with the dog, and staying up-to-date with best practices in canine care. Regular communication with other handlers and trainers, as well as participation in professional development workshops, also help handlers stay prepared for various scenarios they may face on the job.

What are working dogs?

Working dogs are breeds that are specifically trained and utilized to perform practical tasks that assist humans, such as herding livestock, guarding property, assisting people with disabilities, search and rescue, or detecting substances. These dogs are chosen for their intelligence, strength, and trainability, which make them well-suited for demanding roles. Examples of working dog breeds include German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Border Collies, and Belgian Malinois. They play an essential role in various fields, including law enforcement, agriculture, and therapy. Their specialized training and natural instincts make them invaluable partners in many professions.
Working Dogs jobs near you
Infographic showing various Working Dogs job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $28,666 per year, or $13.8 per hour.
Dog Trainer

Dog Trainer

Off Leash K9 Training

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Are you looking for a career, not just a job?

Do you love dogs?

Do you love helping people?

Do you possess great customer service skills?

We are a part of the fastest growing dog training company in the country- Off Leash K9 Training, LLC. We are looking to add three more trainers in the Charlottesville area.

This is a demanding and challenging profession. We need someone that is highly driven to establish professional relationships and be successful.

*Minimum job requirements:

-Must reside in or around the Charlottesville area.

-Must be able to board at least 2 dogs at your residence for 14 days at a time.

-Must have reliable transportation.

-Must have a smartphone.

-Must have knowledge with Social Media (Facebook, Youtube, Instagram, etc.)

-Must complete a 21 day certification process at the OLK9 Training Facility.

*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 in a professional manner.

-Driving to appointments in the Charlottesville area.

-Continuing education and increasing skill in training, both dogs and human.

-Attend PR events.

-Be self motivated!

The ideal Dog Trainer candidate must have:

Strong work ethic, reliable, honest, and most importantly, a passion for dogs. Computer skills with the ability to create dog training videos. The ability to work during peak traffic periods during weekdays and weekends. Customer service and communication skills are essential.

The right person can easily earn $50-70K/year (or more) working from home, a lot of flexibility, and doing something you love!

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