Dog Trainer

Petco•Bailey's Crossroads, VA
•Onsite

About The Position

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will help strengthen the bond between pet parents and their dogs through modern dog-training techniques and positive reinforcement. You will provide individual training sessions and group classes, advise pet parents on basic training and environmental management, and develop customized plans to meet specific training goals. You will also engage with guests to recommend personalized solutions for their pets, including nutrition, services, and supplies. The role combines dog-training services with guest support and store operations. The training pathway includes completing Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program, building and growing the training business at a Pet Care Center, and completing the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog. Candidates with relevant prior experience who pass skill and knowledge assessments may qualify for accelerated training.

Requirements

  • Passion for animal care, training, and welfare, and a genuine interest in improving the lives of pets and their pet parents.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to provide clear instructions and demonstrations and use applicable selling techniques.
  • Ability to handle and work safely and humanely with dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds.
  • 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 objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Familiarity with computer systems and software for managing training records, schedules, and communication with pet parents.
  • Ability to complete Petco’s Dog Training Instructor Program and required certification stages.

Nice To Haves

  • Prior dog-training experience that may qualify the candidate for accelerated training, subject to passing skill and knowledge assessments.

Responsibilities

  • Attend and successfully pass Petco’s six-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program.
  • 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 services, and supplies.
  • Maintain 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 needs.
  • Build an understanding of guests and their pets, and connect them to Petco digital platforms to generate future business.
  • Demonstrate 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 appropriately.
  • Complete cash register transactions and assist 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’ current and future needs.
  • Follow safety protocols to help maintain a safe environment for partners, guests, and pets.

Benefits

  • Health and financial benefits
  • 401(k)
  • Incentives
  • Paid time off (PTO)
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