Dog Trainer

Petco•Houston, TX

4d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, the Dog Trainer enhances the bond between pet parents and their dogs through modern dog-training techniques and positive reinforcement. The role provides one-on-one sessions, group classes, advice on basic training and environmental management, and customized plans for individual training goals. Dog Trainers also engage with guests to recommend personalized solutions for pets, including nutrition, services, and supplies. The role includes completing Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP), then running and growing the dog-training business in a Pet Care Center with marketing, internal resources, networking, and online booking and scheduling support. Trainers also complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog. Candidates with prior experience who pass skill and knowledge assessments may be eligible for accelerated training. Dog Trainers contribute to Pet Care Center operations by assisting guests, supporting merchandise and services sales, maintaining records, collaborating with grooming and veterinary teams, and helping meet store performance goals. The role requires safe, humane handling of dogs and flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.

Requirements

Pass Petco’s Dog Training Instructor Program, including six weeks of instructor-led learning and development, unless eligible for accelerated training.
Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.
Pass skill and knowledge assessments to be considered for accelerated training, if applicable.
Passion for animal care, training, and welfare, and genuine interest in improving the lives of pets and their pet parents.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with pet parents and providing clear instructions, demonstrations, and applicable selling techniques.
Ability to safely and humanely handle and work with dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities effectively.
Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed to accommodate training schedules and store operations.
Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds.
Familiarity with computer systems and software for managing training records, schedules, and communication with pet parents.

Nice To Haves

Prior dog-training experience; approved candidates who pass skill and knowledge assessments may be eligible for accelerated training.

Responsibilities

Attend and successfully pass Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor or Academy Instructor.
Complete assigned Workday Learning modules and DTIP Student Workbook materials according to the DTIP roadmap.
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 and apply ongoing training programs to maintain expertise.
Engage guests and recommend merchandise and services based on their identified needs.
Generate future business by understanding guests and their pets and connecting them to Petco’s digital platforms.
Demonstrate awareness and knowledge of animal health, welfare, and proper handling.
Perform related duties supporting Pet Care Center performance goals.
Ensure merchandise is stocked, priced, and displayed appropriately.
Complete cash-register transactions and support guests with OMNI shopping as needed.
Follow operational guidelines, policies, and procedures.
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.
Use Petco’s selling behaviors to identify and address guest needs.
Follow safety protocols to help maintain a safe environment for partners, guests, and pets.
Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.
Provide one-on-one dog-training sessions, group classes, and advice on basic training, environmental management, and customized training plans.
Run and grow the dog-training business in a Pet Care Center.