Dog Trainer

Petco Animal Supplies Stores•Hesperia, CA

25d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will further Petco’s mission as a pet health and wellness company by strengthening the bond between pet parents and their dogs. You will use modern dog-training techniques and positive reinforcement to help pet parents develop well-behaved, happy, and healthy dogs. The role includes one-on-one sessions, group classes, advice on basic training and environmental management, and customized plans for specific training goals. You will also engage with guests to provide personalized recommendations for their pets’ health and wellness, including nutrition, services, and supplies. The position has two core responsibilities: providing dog-training services and offering 360-degree solutions to Petco guests. New trainers complete Petco’s six-week, instructor-led Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP), related learning modules, and workbook materials. After certification, trainers run and grow the dog-training business in a Pet Care Center, with marketing, internal resources, and online booking and scheduling tools. Trainers also complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog. Candidates with relevant prior experience who pass skills and knowledge assessments may qualify for accelerated training. This role also supports general Pet Care Center operations, including merchandise recommendations and upkeep, register transactions, OMNI shopping assistance, and adherence to operational and safety procedures. The position has no supervisory responsibility.

Requirements

Pass Petco’s Dog Training Instructor Program to become a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, unless eligible for accelerated training after passing skills and knowledge assessments.
Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.
Have a passion for animal care, training, and welfare, and an interest in improving the lives of pets and their pet parents.
Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with pet parents and provide clear instructions, demonstrations, and applicable selling techniques.
Demonstrate the ability to handle and work with dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds safely and humanely.
Have strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities.
Be flexible to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
Have the physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds.
Be familiar with computer systems and software used to manage training records, schedules, and communications.

Responsibilities

Attend and successfully complete Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program, including assigned Workday Learning modules and DTIP Student Workbook materials.
Provide one-on-one dog-training sessions, group classes, and guidance on basic training, environmental management, and customized training plans.
Recommend and sell appropriate dog-training classes, training, and supplies.
Maintain accurate records of training sessions, progress, and pet-parent feedback, and protect confidentiality.
Work with grooming and veterinary teams to provide holistic whole-health solutions.
Complete ongoing training programs and apply learning to maintain expertise.
Engage guests to understand their needs and recommend merchandise and services; build future business through guest relationships and Petco digital platforms.
Demonstrate knowledge of animal health, welfare, and proper handling.
Support Pet Care Center performance goals, including stocking, pricing, and displaying merchandise, completing register transactions, and assisting with OMNI shopping.
Follow operational guidelines, policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
Contribute to a positive culture of teamwork, inclusion, and collaboration.
Refer guest inquiries to the Leader on Duty when appropriate.
Complete other duties and special projects as assigned.