Dog Handler/Trainer/Sitter

Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Dog Trainer, Dog Walker & Pet Sitter to provide high-quality care, structured exercise, and enrichment for dogs and other animals on our client list. This role goes beyond standard dog walking and focuses heavily on reinforcing training during walks, improving leash manners, building obedience skills, and supporting behavioral development.

The position also includes in-home dog sitting and overnight care, ensuring pets remain comfortable and secure in their home environment while owners are away.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of canine behavior, excellent handling skills, and a passion for helping dogs grow into well-balanced, well-trained companions.

Key Responsibilities

Must be able to transport animals with vehicle.

Training-Focused Dog Walking

• Conduct structured walks that reinforce loose-leash walking, impulse control, neutrality to distractions, and proper social behavior.
• Assist with foundational obedience training (sit, down, stay, recall, place)
• Maintain consistency in structure, boundaries, and routines
• Safely walk, exercise, and monitor dogs on and off leash (where permitted).
• Observe and interpret canine body language to prevent and manage behavioral issues.
• Support behavior modification plans for reactivity, anxiety, or other challenges as directed.
• Handle medium to large dogs with calm, confident energy

In-Home & Overnight Dog Sitting

• Available for overnight stays as needed
• Provide in-home pet sitting, including overnight stays.
• Maintain pets’ routines to reduce stress while owners are away.
• Provide feeding, fresh water, medication administration, and enrichment activities.
• Ensure home security and cleanliness during overnight assignments.
• Send regular updates (photos/videos) to clients regarding their pets’ well-being and progress.

Health & Safety

• Administer medications as prescribed by a veterinarian (oral, topical, or injectable).
• Monitor dogs for signs of illness, stress, or injury and report concerns promptly.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene of equipment, crates, feeding areas, and supplies.
• Transport dogs safely when required (vehicle required).

Communication & Documentation

• Maintain records of training sessions, feeding, medications, and behavior notes.
• Communicate clearly with clients regarding training progress, behavior observations, and recommendations.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure consistency in care and training methods.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Previous professional experience handling dogs (training, kennel, daycare, rescue, veterinary, or similar).
• Strong understanding of canine body language and behavior modification principles.
• Experience implementing structured leash work and obedience training.
• Ability to administer medication safely and confidently.
• Comfortable working with dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
• Physically able to lift 50 lbs and remain active for extended periods.
• Reliable transportation suitable for dog transport.
• Excellent communication, observation, and record-keeping skills.
• High level of reliability, responsibility, professionalism, and compassion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in Pet First Aid and CPR.
• Formal dog training education or certification.
• Experience with behavior modification cases (reactivity, anxiety, resource guarding).
• Experience with multi-pet households.
• Background in grooming or basic veterinary care.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $15.00 - $23.00 per hour

Expected hours: 30.0 – 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Experience:

• Dog training: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

• Certification relating to animal behavior modification (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)
• Night Shift (Required)
• Overnight Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Manhattan, KS 66502 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Manhattan, KS 66502: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Willingness to travel:

• 100% (Required)

Work Location: In person