Dog Trainer

We’re proud to be "where the pets go" and "where the pet people go," helping pets live their best lives for more than 60 years. Our core values—Pet First, Foster the Fun, and Let’s Go!—guide us as we work to improve lives by doing what’s right for pets and people. With 29,000+ team members, we nurture the pet-human bond in over 1,500 Petco stores across the U.S., Mexico, and Puerto Rico, as well as through Vetco Total Care hospitals, preventive care clinics, and distribution centers. Since founding Petco Love in 1999, we’ve supported thousands of local animal welfare groups and helped find homes for approximately 7 million animals through in-store adoption events.

About the role

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will enhance the bond between pet parents and their dogs using modern, positive reinforcement training techniques. You’ll provide one-on-one sessions, group classes, and customized training plans while offering holistic solutions for pet health and wellness. Your role includes engaging with guests to recommend products, services, and training resources that meet their pets’ unique needs.

Responsibilities

• Attend and successfully complete Petco’s 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program, including all assigned learning modules and workbook materials.
• Provide world-class dog training services using positive reinforcement methods, addressing basic training, environmental management, and customized goals.
• Recommend and sell appropriate training classes, supplies, and resources to ensure successful outcomes for pet parents and their dogs.
• Maintain accurate records of training sessions, progress, and feedback while upholding confidentiality and professionalism.
• Collaborate with grooming and veterinary teams to offer holistic health solutions for pets and pet parents.
• Engage with guests to provide personalized recommendations for merchandise, services, and digital solutions based on their needs.
• Demonstrate expertise in pet health, welfare, and proper animal handling.
• Support Pet Care Center operations, including stocking merchandise, processing transactions, and enhancing the shopping experience.
• Adhere to operational guidelines, policies, and safety protocols to ensure a secure environment for pets, guests, and team members.
• Promote a collaborative culture centered on pet health and wellness, participating in developmental programs for career growth.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned, including evaluating guest inquiries and referring to leadership when needed.

Certification Requirements

• Stage 1: Complete the 6-week Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP) to become a Petco Certified Dog Trainer.
• Stage 2: Successfully run and grow the dog training business in a Petco Pet Care Center with marketing support and access to internal resources.
• Stage 3: Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.
• Note: Candidates with prior experience may qualify for accelerated training if they pass skill and knowledge assessments.

Qualifications

• Passion for animal care, training, and welfare, with a commitment to improving the lives of pets and pet parents.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with pet parents, provide clear instructions, and demonstrate effective selling techniques.
• Ability to safely and humanely handle dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities.
• Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
• Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds (training equipment and supplies).
• Familiarity with computer systems and software for managing records, schedules, and communication.

Pay

Start rate: $15.15 per hour.

Benefits

For a detailed overview of Petco’s Total Rewards—including health and financial benefits, 401K, incentives, and PTO—visit Petco’s careers page.