Dog Trainer

Petco•Palm Desert, CA

18d•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 training sessions and group classes, offers guidance on basic training and environmental management, and develops customized plans to address specific training goals. The trainer also engages with guests to recommend personalized solutions, including nutrition, services, and supplies for their pets. The role includes completing Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program, assigned learning modules and workbook materials, and ongoing training. Trainers maintain accurate session and progress records, recommend appropriate classes and products, and collaborate with grooming and veterinary teams. They also support general Pet Care Center operations and guest service, including merchandise recommendations, stocking and displaying products, cash register transactions, and assistance with OMNI shopping. The position requires flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed. It involves standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds. No supervisory responsibility is assigned. Candidates with prior experience who pass skill and knowledge assessments may qualify for accelerated training.

Requirements

Pass Petco’s six-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program to become a Petco Certified Dog Trainer.
Pass the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.
Passion for animal care, training, and welfare, and a genuine interest in improving the lives of pets and their 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 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 Trainer 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 suitable dog training classes, training, and supplies to pet parents.
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 solutions for pet parents.
Complete and apply ongoing training programs to maintain expertise.
Engage guests and recommend merchandise and services based on their and their pets’ needs.
Build 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.
Support Pet Care Center performance goals and operations, including stocking, pricing, and displaying merchandise.
Complete cash register transactions and assist guests with OMNI shopping as needed.
Follow operational guidelines, policies, and procedures; contribute to a safe, collaborative, and inclusive culture.
Complete other duties and special projects as assigned.
Evaluate guest inquiries and refer them to the Leader on Duty as needed.
Provide one-on-one training sessions, group classes, and advice on basic training, environmental management, and customized training plans.
Provide recommendations on pet nutrition, services, and supplies.