Dog Trainer

Petco • Sterling, VA

12d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, the Dog Trainer furthers Petco’s mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by strengthening the bond between pet parents and their dogs. The role uses modern dog-training techniques and positive reinforcement to help pet parents develop well-behaved, happy, and healthy dogs. The trainer provides one-on-one sessions and group classes, advises on basic training and environmental management, and creates customized plans to address specific training goals. The position also engages with guests to recommend personalized solutions, including nutrition, services, and supplies for their pets.

The role includes completing Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP), assigned learning modules, and workbook materials, then successfully running and growing the dog-training business in a Pet Care Center. The trainer keeps accurate session records, maintains confidentiality and professionalism, works with grooming and veterinary teams, and completes ongoing training. They also support general store operations and guest service, including merchandise recommendations, stocking and display, transactions, OMNI shopping, safety protocols, and teamwork. Weekend, evening, and holiday availability may be needed to accommodate training schedules and store operations.

Requirements

• Pass Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program, except approved candidates with prior experience may be eligible for accelerated training after passing skill and knowledge assessments.
• Pass the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.
• Passion for animal care, training, and welfare, and genuine interest in improving the lives of pets and pet parents.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with pet parents and provide clear instructions, demonstrations, and applicable selling techniques.
• Ability to handle and work with dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds safely and humanely.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities effectively.
• Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
• Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Familiarity with computer systems and software to manage training records, schedules, and communication with pet parents.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one dog-training sessions and group classes using modern techniques and positive reinforcement.
• Advise pet parents on basic training, environmental management, and customized training plans.
• Attend and successfully pass Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program, including assigned Workday Learning modules and DTIP Student Workbook materials.
• Recommend and sell appropriate dog-training classes, training, and supplies.
• Keep accurate records of training sessions, progress, and pet-parent feedback; maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Work cross-functionally with grooming and veterinary teams to provide holistic whole-health solutions.
• Complete ongoing training programs and apply learning to maintain expertise.
• Engage guests, identify their needs, and recommend appropriate merchandise and services; generate future business through understanding guests and their pets and connecting them to digital platforms.
• Demonstrate awareness and knowledge of animal health, welfare, and proper handling.
• Perform related duties to support Pet Care Center performance goals, including stocking, pricing, and displaying merchandise; completing cash-register transactions; and helping with OMNI shopping.
• Follow operational guidelines, policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Promote teamwork, inclusion, and collaboration; complete other duties and special projects as assigned.
• Evaluate guest inquiries and refer them to the Leader on Duty as needed.
• Successfully run and grow the dog-training business in a Pet Care Center, using local and national marketing support, internal resources, networking, and online booking and scheduling systems.
• Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.

Benefits

• Health and financial benefits, 401(k), incentives, and paid time off (PTO) are referenced in the Petco Total Rewards overview; specific eligibility and plan details are not provided.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed