Dog Trainer

Petco•Portsmouth, NH

3d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, the Dog Trainer enhances the bond between pet parents and their dogs using modern dog-training techniques and positive reinforcement. The role provides one-on-one sessions and group classes, offers guidance on basic training and environmental management, and develops customized plans to address specific 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), assigned learning modules, and workbook materials. After certification, the Dog Trainer runs and grows the dog-training business at a Pet Care Center, with marketing, internal resources, and online booking and scheduling support. The role also includes completing the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog. Candidates with prior experience may qualify for accelerated training if they pass required skill and knowledge assessments. Dog Trainers contribute to Pet Care Center operations and guest service, including merchandise recommendations, stocking and displaying products, register transactions, OMNI shopping support, and adherence to operational and safety procedures. The role works cross-functionally with grooming and veterinary teams and maintains accurate training records and professional confidentiality.

Requirements

Pass Petco’s Dog Training Instructor Program to become a Petco Certified Dog Trainer.
Pass required skill and knowledge assessments if seeking accelerated training based on prior experience.
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.
Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
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.

Responsibilities

Provide one-on-one dog-training sessions and group classes using modern training techniques and positive reinforcement.
Advise pet parents on basic training, environmental management, and customized training plans.
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 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 needs.
Generate future business by understanding guests and their pets and connecting them to Petco’s digital platforms.
Demonstrate knowledge of animal health, welfare, and proper handling.
Perform related duties that support 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, procedures, and safety protocols.
Promote teamwork, inclusion, and collaboration.
Complete other assigned duties and special projects.
Evaluate guest inquiries and refer them to the Leader on Duty as needed.
Attend and successfully pass Petco’s six-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program and complete assigned learning modules and workbook materials.
Run and grow the dog-training business at a Pet Care Center after certification.
Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.