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Certified Dog Trainer

Location
Baltimore, Maryland
Posted
8 May 2026

Are you passionate about helping pets live their best lives? Join us at Petco, where we embrace a culture of care and wellness for pets and their owners. If you're ready to make a meaningful impact, thrive within a supportive environment, and promote wellbeing, Petco is the perfect place for you.

At Petco, we hold our core values close as we strive to enhance the lives of pets and their owners:

  • Pet First - Protect & Empower. Our priority is the well-being of pets and their parents.
  • Foster the Fun - Connect & Bond. We celebrate pet parenthood through enriching experiences, products, and services.
  • Let's Go! Own & Commit. United as One Petco Team, we champion authenticity and work towards achieving our goals together.

About Petco: For over 60 years, we have been the essential destination for pets to find everything they need—from their favorite foods and toys to expert guidance from dedicated staff. We understand the joys and challenges of pet parenthood, and we are committed to supporting each pet's journey with love and care. With over 29,000+ associates, we are dedicated to nurturing the bond between pets and their humans across more than 1,500 Petco locations in the U.S., Mexico, and Puerto Rico, in addition to our Vetco hospitals, clinics, and distribution centers. Through Petco Love, we have helped find homes for around 7 million animals through our in-store adoption events.

Position Overview:

As a Certified Dog Trainer at Petco, you will play a crucial role in advancing our mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the relationship between pet parents and their canine companions. Utilizing modern dog training techniques and positive reinforcement, you'll help pet parents cultivate well-behaved, happy dogs. Your responsibilities will include conducting one-on-one training sessions, leading group classes, and offering tailored advice on training, behavior management, and overall pet wellness.

Key Responsibilities:

In this role, successful candidates will be expected to fulfill essential duties, including:

  • Provide Exceptional Dog Training Services: Complete Petco’s comprehensive 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program and continue to refine your skills through ongoing training.
  • Recommend and sell appropriate training classes and supplies for a rewarding training experience.
  • Maintain accurate records of training sessions and client feedback while upholding confidentiality and professionalism.
  • Collaborate with grooming and veterinary teams to deliver holistic wellness solutions.

Engage Petco Guests:

  • Deliver an outstanding experience for guests by helping them choose appropriate products and services.
  • Understand guest needs to foster long-term relationships and future business.
  • Demonstrate high awareness and understanding of pet health and proper animal handling.
  • Assist in maintaining store presentation and stock levels to enhance the shopping experience.

Other Duties:

  • Utilize effective selling techniques to enhance guest satisfaction.
  • Contribute to a safe environment by adhering to safety protocols.
  • Participate in team efforts to meet the health and wellness needs of pets.
  • Engage in personal career development through available training programs.

Certification Requirements:

  • Stage 1: Complete the Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP) for certification.
  • Stage 2: Successfully manage the dog training business in our center, with support for marketing and resources.
  • Stage 3: Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dogs.
  • Note: Experienced candidates may qualify for accelerated training after assessments.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Genuine passion for animal care and enhancing the lives of pets and their families.
  • Excellent communication skills for effective instruction and selling.
  • Proven ability to work safely with dogs of various sizes and breeds.
  • Strong organizational abilities with multitasking capabilities.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
  • Physical capability to lift heavy items (up to 50 pounds) related to training materials.
  • Comfortable using computer systems for record-keeping and communication.

Supervisory Responsibility: None

The pay range for this position is $12.00 - $19.50 per hour, with a starting rate of $15.00. Actual compensation will depend on factors such as location, experience, and applicable laws.

Petco is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status.

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Details

  • Job Reference: 2762141088-2
  • Date Posted: 8 May 2026
  • Recruiter: Petco
  • Location: Baltimore, Maryland
  • Salary: On Application