Demo

Canine Handler

Dogtopia Charlottesville
Charlottesville, VA Full Time
POSTED ON 3/23/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/15/2026

Dogtopia Charlottesville is looking for a reliable and compassionate animal handler (Canine Coach) to join our team. We are a small business, but we are always looking to hire great people. The ideal candidate will be a hard-working professional able to undertake a variety of tasks with attention to detail and great care for animals and people. We have the following primary shifts:

* M-F 6:45am-12:45pm & 1:45pm-8pm

* Sat & Sun 9:45am-6:00pm ** Break from 12:30pm-1:45pm

*** Weekends and Holidays are required***

*** We do also have a Mid Shift M-F***

Skills

  • Proven experience as an animal handler
  • Knowledge of animal behavior and attraction
  • Excellent communication, public speaking and communication skills
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Relaxed and professional demeanor
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Flexible schedule (some weekends monthly & holidays are required)

Responsibilities

  • Have fun with dogs on camera, we have live webcams so our Pet Parents can watch!
  • Maintain control of large groups of open play dogs in a playroom at all times to ensure a safe and fun environment.
  • All rooms are equipped with cameras for our pet parents to engage with their furry friends throughout their stay.
  • You must be able to continuously be on your feet showing the dogs attention and care to ensure you are maintaining a pack leader status in the room.
  • This position can be at times physically and mentally demanding, you must not have physical restrictions and be able to move or lift up to 50lbs at times.
  • Caring for all the furry friends as if they were a part of your own family.
  • Cleaning Duties
  • The playroom is continually monitored and kept free of messes by immediate and continual spot cleaning throughout the shift.
  • Daily cleaning assignments may include but are not limited to sweeping, mopping, taking out the trash, replacing water bowls, etc.
  • Being proactive in making sure the dogs are always in a safe, clean environment.
  • Health and Grooming
  • Willingness to learn correct Dogtopia bathing and nail clipping of any size dog without direct supervision. Proper procedures include the use of appropriate bathing equipment and techniques, along with clean-up of the bathing area upon completion.
  • Always handling dogs with care as bath time can be stressful for our furry friend.
  • Teamwork, positive attitude & own initiatives
  • We are open 365 days per year so evenings/weekends/holidays _*do apply.
  • Ability to work cohesively with their team in a respectful and professional manner, negative attitudes will not be tolerated.
  • Willingness to want to learn and grow within the company and position.
  • Maintains consistent time and attendance standards.
  • Follows company dress code guidelines for professional and safe standards.
  • Be on time for scheduled shifts and in the case of emergency, we ask the call out is in advance of their shift to allow time for proper coverage.
  • Complete all online required Dogtopia Courses within 60 days.
  • What we offer: Let’s look at what Dogtopia does for you!
  • Education in basic dog language
  • Fun, Dynamic team culture
  • Career progression based on performance.
  • Additional certification programs are available based upon merit and interest.
  • Competitive hourly wages with flexibility in scheduling
  • Health Insurance option after 90 days
  • Free dog daycare/boarding for your pet after completing required meet & greet, after training is complete.
  • PTO hours are given every 6 months of employment.
  • Opportunity to advance throughout multiple locations.
  • Opportunity to cross-train after Canine Handler training is complete in other positions within the company.

Pay: $13.75 - $14.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • On-the-job training
  • Opportunities for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Paid training
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $14 - $14

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