What are the responsibilities and job description for the Canine Coach - Dogtopia of Ankeny position at Dogtopia of Ankeny?
Bring your dog to work? That’s right.
If you LOVE dogs, then Dogtopia of Ankeny may be the place for you.
Dogtopia is the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services, and we are preparing to open a brand-new location in Ankeny. We are looking for energetic, dependable, dog-loving team members who are excited to help us build something from the ground up.
This is a great opportunity for someone who has always wanted to work with dogs but did not know where to start, or for someone whose own dogs bring them so much joy that they would love to spend their workday caring for pups. No prior dog daycare experience is required. We provide extensive training and will teach you how to safely and confidently work with dogs in a structured daycare environment.
As part of your candidacy with Dogtopia of Ankeny, we’d like you to complete two assessments, which will take about 20 minutes to complete—the Predictive Index Behavioral and Cognitive Assessments in addition to your application.
The Behavioral Assessment measures your hard-wired, natural behaviors and strengths—or you at your very best. It takes about six minutes to complete.
The Cognitive Assessment is a 12-minute, timed assessment that assesses your natural learning style. (Some people learn methodically and go narrow and deep, others quickly and broadly, for example.)
These assessments help us understand which of our roles would be best suited to a person’s natural strengths, and allows us to get to know them better.
These assessments do not provide a yes or no answer on any candidate, and are merely a part of our screening and selection process.
To take the assessment follow this link: https://assessment.predictiveindex.com/bo/0GJC/CanineCoach_Jun2026_230732
At Dogtopia, daycare is about much more than simply watching dogs play. Our team creates a safe, clean, fun, and educational environment where dogs can learn, socialize, and make their BFFFs — Best Furry Friends Forever. We also make the daycare experience special through events like treat days, themed photo days, slumber parties, and other fun activities for our pups and pet parents.
Because this is a new location, every team member will play an important role in helping create the culture, routines, and guest experience at Dogtopia of Ankeny. All positions begin by learning the basics of playroom management as a Canine Coach. Team members may also have the opportunity to learn additional responsibilities such as spa services, front desk support, cleaning procedures, or roving support throughout the facility.
High-performing team members may have opportunities to grow into lead or management roles as our location becomes established.
All employees must be 18 years or older.
You are:
A dog lover - obviously! We care deeply about the dogs in our care, and you will too.
A team player - we have each other’s backs and work together to keep our dogs safe and happy.
Dependable - as a new business, we need team members who show up, communicate, and take their responsibilities seriously.
Inquisitive - we are always learning, improving, and looking for better ways to serve our dogs and pet parents.
Brave - working with groups of dogs can be active, messy, and challenging, but also incredibly rewarding.
Honest - honesty, accountability, and trust are essential to our culture.
You will:
Supervise playrooms and educate dogs
Proactively manage groups of dogs in open play to reinforce good behavior and help keep the playroom safe and positive. This is not just playing with dogs.
Learn Dogtopia’s positive reinforcement and redirection process for gently addressing undesirable behaviors.
Engage dogs in stimulating, fun, and educational activities.
Monitor dog behavior, energy levels, and play styles throughout the day.
Communicate with team members about dog behavior, safety concerns, and playroom needs.
Help open and establish a new Dogtopia location
Participate in training before and during opening.
Help establish daily routines, cleaning habits, and playroom expectations.
Represent Dogtopia of Ankeny in a positive and professional way with pet parents and the local community.
Support a welcoming environment for new dogs, new pet parents, and new team members.
Keep the facility safe, clean, and healthy
Keep the facility clean at all times — yes, this does include cleaning up poop.
Complete cleaning procedures to maintain a healthy daycare environment.
Follow proper protocols with pet-safe cleaning solutions.
Help maintain a safe, organized, and professional facility throughout the day.
You can:
Be around groups of playing dogs of all sizes.
Spend up to 8 hours standing, walking, bending, and moving.
Work flexible days and hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Lift up to 40 pounds.
Stay calm, focused, and positive in a busy, active environment.
Job Types:
Full-time
Part-time
Location:
Dogtopia of Ankeny
Opening soon in Ankeny, Iowa
Pay: From $12.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid training
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Have you completed The Predictive Index Behavioral and Cognitive Assessment?
Language:
- English (Preferred)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Preferred)
- Night Shift (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Ankeny, IA 50023 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $12