Dog Trainer, Level I

Introduction

Founded in 2024, Monterey Dog has quickly become the MOST POPULAR dog adventure company on the Monterey Peninsula, and we’re just getting started! At Monterey Dog, we go beyond basics to provide thoughtful, enrichment-focused services that prioritize animal welfare with positive, force-free handling. From neighborhood walks and curated dog adventures, to private and group training that empower pet parents to construct quality relationships with their companions, we proudly serve both locals and visitors with highly personalized, high-quality care.

At Monterey Dog, we believe that we're more than just a service, we're a growing community rooted in compassion, professionalism, and of course, a love for dogs! We’re building a team of passionate individuals who share our vision of improving the lives of dogs across the Monterey Peninsula.  With flagship events across the Monterey Peninsula, such as our Halloween Pup Crawl and Intro to Dog Surfing, and as creators of the region’s original Dog Adventure Map, Monterey Dog has established itself as a premiere dog care and training company with a strong local reputation.  As we continue to grow, we’re looking for team members who are excited about being part of a mission-driven company and want to grow with us. 

This is a permanent, part-time position (minimum of 20-Hours per week) with flexible scheduling and significant opportunities for advancement. Ideally, we are looking for an individual who wants to grow into a professional dog training career and into a full-time role with Monterey Dog. 

Position Summary

As a Dog Trainer, Level I, you’ll be taking the first step in your career toward becoming a professional dog trainer by working directly with senior dog training staff in our support of all-inclusive dog care and training services. In this role, you will be a key, client-facing member of our team, responsible for walking dogs and leading enrichment-based dog adventures. Under the direct guidance of senior dog training staff, you will play an important role in ensuring that our client’s dogs not only get enrichment during regular walks and adventures but also work on reinforcing the training skills that they have been working on.   

With Monterey Dog, you’ll be assigned one or more clients whose needs align with your availability and experience. In addition to these ongoing assignments, you may also be asked to assist with occasional appointments through our tourism division, or participate in group walks, team-led hikes, or enrichment outings with multiple dogs.

Your responsibilities may include:

• Walking a client’s dog around their neighborhood, taking dogs on enriching outings to local beaches, hiking trails, or other destinations, and providing daytime dog care in clients’ homes

• Conducting dog training exercises during everyday walks, adventures, and in-home care

• Acting as the training assistant to senior training staff for private and group training sessions

• Offering backup coverage for other team members when needed

• Participating in group walks and other collaborative outings with other team members

• Assisting with Monterey Dog community events and marketing initiatives

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

We’re not looking for someone to just walk a dog, we’re looking for someone who wants to grow into a professional dog training career.

Candidates should demonstrate:

• A strong desire to learn and grow in their career in dog training

• A deep sense of responsibility, reliability, and empathy when caring for dogs

• Enthusiasm for building relationships with both dogs and people

• Commitment to providing enriching experiences for dogs that support both their physical and mental wellbeing

• Eagerness to stay informed on best practices in dog care, safety, health, and enrichment, and the confidence to educate clients as appropriate

• Sound judgment in situations where dogs may be nervous, reactive, or overstimulated

• Ability to communicate clearly with clients and uphold a high standard of customer service

• A warm, welcoming personality and strong interpersonal skills

• Comfort and confidence in “messy” situations, including cleaning up accidents or administering basic first aid

• Physical fitness to participate in an active, outdoor working environment in all weather conditions

• Capability to safely walk at least two large dogs at once

• Will participate in company-provided training and ongoing education

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

• Flexibility to work a variable schedule, including weekends, evenings, and holidays

Minimum Qualifications

To be considered, you must be 18 years or older and legally authorized to work in the United States. All candidates must also:

• Have previous professional experience working with dogs in a dog walking, sitting, or training capacity

• Reside in or around Monterey, California

• Have reliable transportation and be able to drive to client and pop-up locations within the service area (Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Valley, Seaside, and Marina). 

• Have a smartphone with data plan to send real-time updates to clients

• Have availability to work a minimum of 20-Hours per week between the hours of 9:00AM and 9:00PM, including weekends as required. 

• Be physically fit and capable of walking for long periods of time

• Possess a valid Pet First Aid Certificate (or be willing to obtain one)

Completion or enrollment in a veterinarian, animal behavior, dog training, or related certification or degree program is strongly preferred.

All candidates must pass a background check prior to employment. 

Compensation and Benefits

The hourly range for this position begins at $20.00 per hour. All team members are entitled to 100% of client provided tips and referral bonuses for new clients.

All candidates will also receive:

• Mileage reimbursement when using a personal vehicle

• Paid time off

• Educational reimbursement towards CPDT-KA certification and more

• Opportunities to progress within the company

The safety of our employees is paramount. Monterey Dog has strict client policies to ensure the health and safety of our employees. 

How to apply

To apply, send your resume and a cover letter describing why you would be a great fit to hello@themontereydog.com. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.    

Learn More

To learn more about Monterey Dog, visit our website at www.themontereydog.com or our Instagram @montereydogco.