Trainer

Downtown Dog Lounge LLC•Seattle, WA

18d

About The Position

The Dog Trainer supports dogs and their owners by providing high-quality training programs rooted in safety, positive reinforcement, and behavioral understanding. The role provides consistent, compassionate, and structured guidance for dogs while delivering exceptional customer service to clients. The trainer conducts classes, private lessons, and behavior consultations; develops individualized plans; educates clients; and collaborates with facility teams to maintain consistency in training and handling.

Requirements

1–2 years of professional dog training experience required.
Strong understanding of dog behavior, learning theory, and positive reinforcement methods.
Excellent communication and customer service skills.
Ability to coach clients with clarity and patience.
Ability to safely lift up to 50 lbs, remain on their feet for extended periods, and handle dogs of all sizes.
Comfort working in high-energy environments.
Flexibility for client appointments and facility needs.

Nice To Haves

Daycare setting experience preferred.
Certification from an accredited program, such as CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, CTC, or equivalent, strongly preferred.
Experience managing multi-dog environments or behavior modification cases is a plus.

Responsibilities

Conduct group classes, private lessons, and behavior consultations using approved training methods.
Develop individualized training plans based on dog behavior, age, temperament, and owner goals.
Observe dog body language and intervene appropriately to prevent escalations.
Document training progress and maintain accurate behavioral notes in company software.
Provide training support and guidance to internal teams, including Handlers, Pack Leaders, and Concierge.
Meet with clients to discuss training needs, develop goals, and set expectations.
Communicate training techniques, at-home exercises, and follow-up instructions clearly.
Build trust-based client relationships through consistent results and clear communication.
Build clientele.
Ensure training sessions follow safety protocols, leash handling standards, and facility guidelines.
Use approved equipment only, such as harnesses, leashes, and long-lines; do not use banned or aversive tools.
Maintain safe distances and appropriate grouping of dogs during sessions.
Assist with dog assessments for daycare eligibility when needed.
Support enrichment programs, structured walks, and behavior-based playgroups.
Maintain cleanliness of training areas and care for equipment.
Partner with management to evolve training programs and improve curriculum.
Provide internal team workshops or mini-trainings on dog behavior, enrichment, and handling techniques.
Communicate with all departments to support consistency in training methods across the facility.