Dog Trainer

Petco’s core values focus on putting pets and pet parents first, fostering fun, and committing to teamwork. With over 29,000 partners, more than 1,500 stores, 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, and a long‑standing commitment to animal welfare, Petco strives to improve lives by doing what’s right for pets and people.

About the role

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco’s mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their dog companions. You will provide one‑on‑one training sessions, group classes, and advice on basic training, environmental management, and customized training plans. You will also engage with guests to provide 360‑degree personalized solutions, recommending nutrition, services, and supplies.

Responsibilities

• Provide world‑class dog training services, including completing Petco’s 6‑week Dog Trainer Instructor Program and all required Workday Learning modules.
• Recommend and sell appropriate dog training classes, training, and supplies; keep accurate records of sessions, progress, and feedback.
• Maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and cross‑functional collaboration with grooming and veterinary teams to deliver holistic health solutions.
• Engage guests with outstanding service, recommending merchandise and services, generating future business, and supporting the OMNI shopping experience.
• Stock, price, and display merchandise to enhance the shopping experience; complete cash register transactions as needed.
• Adhere to operational guidelines, policies, and procedures; promote teamwork, inclusion, and collaboration.
• Utilize selling behaviors to identify and solve guest needs; contribute to a safe environment by following safety protocols.
• Participate in developmental programs and special projects; evaluate guest inquiries and refer to the Leader on Duty when appropriate.

Requirements

• Complete the Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP) – a 6‑week instructor‑led learning and development program.
• Successfully run and grow the dog training business in a Pet Care Center with marketing support and access to internal resources.
• Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dogs.
• Candidates with prior experience may be eligible for accelerated training after passing skill and knowledge assessments.

Qualifications

• Passion for animal care, training, and welfare with a genuine interest in improving the lives of pets and their parents.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for clear instruction, demonstrations, and selling techniques.
• Ability to handle dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds safely and humanely.
• Strong organizational skills; ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
• Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 lb of equipment and supplies.
• Familiarity with computer systems and software for managing training records, schedules, and communications.
• No supervisory responsibility required.

Skills

• Positive‑reinforcement dog training techniques.
• Customer service and guest engagement.
• Sales and product recommendation.
• Cross‑functional collaboration with grooming and veterinary teams.
• Safety protocol adherence.

Benefits

Petco Total Rewards include health and financial benefits, a 401(k) plan, incentives, and paid time off. See the full details at Petco Total Rewards.

Pay

Start rate: $12.00 per hour.

Schedule

Work may include weekends, evenings, and holidays to accommodate training schedules and store operations.