Dog Trainer

Petco • Kennesaw, GA

21d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, the employee 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 individual sessions and group classes, advises on basic training and environmental management, and develops customized plans to address specific training goals. The role also engages guests and recommends personalized solutions, including nutrition, services, and supplies, based on the needs of pets and pet parents.

The role has two core responsibilities: providing dog-training services and providing 360-degree solutions for Petco guests. The trainer completes Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program, assigned learning modules, and workbook materials; recommends appropriate classes and products; maintains accurate training records; and works with grooming and veterinary teams. Guest-facing responsibilities include recommending merchandise and services, supporting store operations and online/OMNI shopping, maintaining merchandise presentation, and contributing to a safe, collaborative environment. Candidates with prior experience who pass the required skill and knowledge assessments may be eligible for accelerated training.

Requirements

• Pass Petco’s Dog Training Instructor Program, unless eligible for accelerated training based on prior experience and successful 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.
• 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 of dog-training equipment and supplies.
• Familiarity with computer systems and software for managing training records, schedules, and communication with pet parents.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience may qualify approved candidates for accelerated training if they pass both skill and knowledge assessments.

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 Dog Training Instructor Program Student Workbook materials according to the program roadmap.
• Recommend and sell appropriate dog-training classes, training, and supplies to support successful training experiences.
• 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 according to their identified needs.
• Build understanding of guests and their pets and connect guests to Petco digital platforms to generate future business.
• Demonstrate awareness and knowledge of animal health, welfare, and proper handling.
• Perform related duties to support Pet Care Center performance goals.
• Ensure merchandise is stocked, priced, and displayed to enhance the shopping experience.
• 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 guests’ needs.
• Follow safety protocols to protect partners, guests, and pets.
• Participate in developmental programs to support career growth.
• Provide one-on-one training sessions and group classes, and offer advice on basic training, environmental management, and customized training plans.

What This Job Offers

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