Dog Trainer

Petco Animal Supplies Stores•Leominster, MA

23d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, the Dog Trainer enhances the bond between pet parents and their dogs by using modern training techniques and positive reinforcement. The role provides one-on-one training sessions, group classes, guidance on basic training and environmental management, and customized plans for specific training goals. The Dog Trainer also engages with guests to recommend personalized solutions involving pet wellness, nutrition, services, and supplies. The role begins with Petco’s six-week, instructor-led Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP), along with assigned learning modules and workbook materials. After certification, the trainer runs and grows the dog-training business at a Pet Care Center, supported by marketing, internal resources, and online booking and scheduling systems. The trainer also completes the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog. Candidates with prior experience who pass skill and knowledge assessments may qualify for accelerated training. The position includes broader Pet Care Center duties, including guest service and sales, supporting merchandise and store operations, maintaining safety and animal-welfare standards, and collaborating with grooming and veterinary teams. The role has no supervisory responsibility.

Requirements

Pass Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program and complete its assigned learning modules and workbook materials, unless eligible for accelerated training based on prior experience and successful assessments.
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 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.
Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift objects up to 50 pounds.
Familiarity with computer systems and software used to manage training records, schedules, and communication with pet parents.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Provide one-on-one dog training sessions, group classes, basic training advice, environmental-management guidance, and customized training plans.
Attend and successfully pass Petco’s six-week Dog Training Instructor Program, and complete assigned Workday Learning modules and DTIP Student Workbook materials.
Recommend and sell appropriate dog-training classes, training, and supplies.
Maintain accurate records of training sessions, progress, and pet-parent feedback, while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
Work cross-functionally with grooming and veterinary teams to provide whole-health solutions.
Complete and apply ongoing training programs to maintain expertise.
Engage guests and recommend merchandise and services based on their needs and the needs of their pets.
Build future business by understanding guests and their pets and connecting them to Petco’s 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, procedures, and safety protocols.
Promote teamwork, inclusion, and collaboration.
Evaluate guest inquiries and refer them to the Leader on Duty as needed.
Complete other assigned duties and special projects.