Dog Trainer

Petco•Bremerton, WA

17d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, the role supports Petco’s mission as a pet health and wellness company by strengthening the bond between pet parents and their dogs. The trainer uses modern dog-training techniques and positive reinforcement to help pet parents develop well-behaved, happy, and healthy dogs. The position provides one-on-one training, group classes, and guidance on basic training, environmental management, and customized plans for specific goals. It also engages guests to recommend personalized solutions, including nutrition, services, and supplies. The role includes completing Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP), learning and applying assigned training materials, and then running and growing the dog-training business at a Pet Care Center. Trainers also support the broader store through guest service, merchandise recommendations, operational duties, and collaboration with grooming and veterinary teams. The role may progress to completing Petco’s Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog. Candidates with relevant prior experience who pass skill and knowledge assessments may qualify 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.
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 appropriate 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.
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 dog-training experience that may qualify an approved candidate for accelerated training after passing skill and knowledge assessments.

Responsibilities

Attend and successfully pass Petco’s six-week Dog Trainer 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 to support successful training experiences.
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 for pet parents.
Complete ongoing training programs and apply learning to maintain expertise in the role.
Engage guests and recommend merchandise and services based on their needs and the needs of their pets.
Build future business through understanding guests and their pets and connecting them with Petco 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 assist guests with OMNI shopping as needed.
Follow operational guidelines, policies, and procedures.
Promote teamwork, inclusion, and collaboration and contribute to a safe environment.
Use Petco’s selling behaviors to identify and address guest needs.
Evaluate guest inquiries and refer them to the Leader on Duty when needed.
Complete other duties and special projects as assigned.
Successfully run and grow the dog-training business at a Pet Care Center, using local and national marketing support, internal partner resources, networking, and online booking and scheduling systems.
Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.