Dog Trainer

DOG TRAINER

Reports To: Director of Training / Operations Management
Location: Quinebaug Kennels (QK Dogs) — Canterbury, CT
Employment Type: Full-Time

POSITION SUMMARY

The Dog Trainer is responsible for providing professional, consistent, and safe canine training in accordance with Quinebaug Kennels’ established training philosophy and the methodologies developed by Jennifer Broome.

The Dog Trainer will execute QK Dogs’ programs for on-leash and off-leash obedience, gun dog training, behavior development, handling, and owner education.

The Trainer is expected to become highly proficient in QK Dogs’ training system and apply it consistently across dogs, handlers, training environments, and client interactions.

This position requires a trainer who can follow established methodology with precision while developing the skill, timing, judgment, and communication necessary to produce reliable results. The Trainer will work with dogs ranging from basic obedience clients to advanced off-leash and gun dog candidates and may participate in board-and-train programs, private lessons, group classes, demonstrations, seminars, field work, and client handoffs.

This position is not limited to working with dogs. The successful Trainer must be able to teach people how to effectively communicate with and handle their dogs.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

1. QK DOGS TRAINING METHODOLOGYLearn, understand, and consistently execute the training methodologies established by Jennifer Broome and QK Dogs, including but not limited to:

• On-leash obedience
• Off-leash obedience
• Engagement and communication
• Heel / With Me
• Be Still — Sit / Down / Whoa
• Here
• Place / Go to
• Recall development
• Leash handling and pressure/release concepts
• Wonder Lead methodology
• E-collar conditioning and application
• Appropriate use of training tools
• Quiet Kue methodology
• Impulse control
• Environmental distractions
• Boundary and place work
• Handler timing and mechanics
• Structured reinforcement
• Proper transitions between obedience exercises
• Generalization of obedience into real-world environments
• Live bird work gun desensitizing

The Trainer must demonstrate the ability to replicate QK Dogs’ methodology accurately rather than substituting personal training preferences without authorization.

As competency develops, Trainers may be expected to assist with refining training exercises, coaching newer Trainers, and contributing observations to management; however, changes to established methodology must be reviewed and approved through the appropriate QK Dogs leadership structure.

2. ON-LEASH & OFF-LEASH OBEDIENCE

Execute QK Dogs' obedience programs from foundational skills through advanced off-leash reliability.Responsibilities include:

• Evaluating a dog's current level of obedience and understanding.
• Establishing appropriate training goals.
• Teaching foundational commands and behaviors.
• Developing reliable responses through increasing levels of distraction.
• Transitioning dogs appropriately from leash work to off-leash work.
• Developing reliable recall and engagement.
• Applying appropriate consequences, reinforcement, and repetition according to QK methodology.
• Recognizing when a dog is ready to progress to a more advanced exercise.
• Maintaining consistency between training sessions.
• Preparing dogs and owners for successful transfer of skills into the home environment.

The Trainer must be able to recognize when a dog is not ready to advance and communicate that appropriately.

3. TRAINING TOOL PROFICIENCYDevelop and maintain competency in the safe and appropriate use of QK-approved training equipment, which may include:

• Electronic collars (E-collars)
• Wonder Leads
• Patience Line
• Long lines
• Kuranda Beds
• Kennels
• Figuire 8's
• Obstacle Course

The Trainer must understand:

• Proper equipment placement
• Conditioning and introduction
• Appropriate stimulation levels
• Timing
• Communication
• Pressure and release
• Safety considerations
• Equipment inspection and maintenance
• When a particular tool is or is not appropriate

No training tool is to be used simply because it is available. Trainers are expected to understand the purpose, timing, and application of each tool within QK Dogs' methodology

4. QUIET KUE & BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENTThe Trainer will be responsible for implementing QK Dogs' Quiet Kue methodology and helping dogs develop appropriate responses to barking, excitement, environmental stimulation, and other distractions to establish clear communication between handler and dog.Responsibilities may include:

• Identifying the cause/context of unwanted vocalization.
• Implementing the Quiet Kue consistently.
• Maintaining appropriate timing and follow-through.
• Teaching dogs appropriate alternative behaviors.
• Helping dogs develop impulse control.
• Recognizing the difference between excitement, frustration, anxiety, environmental stimulation, and other causes of vocalization.
• Communicating observations to the appropriate team members.
• Maintaining consistency across the dog's daily routine.

5. GUN DOG TRAININGFor Trainers qualified to participate in QK Dogs' Gun Dog programs, responsibilities may include:

• Bird introduction and development
• Gun dog obedience
• Steadiness
• Whoa
• Recall
• Place and control
• Field handling
• Bird work
• Gun introduction/desensitization as directed by QK methodology
• Hunting and field scenarios
• Off-leash field work
• Environmental exposure
• Client/handler instruction
• Maintaining appropriate safety protocols around firearms and live birds

The Trainer must demonstrate appropriate judgment and safety when working around:

• Live birds
• Firearms
• Other dogs
• Handlers
• ATVs and equipment
• Field environments

Only Trainers who have demonstrated appropriate competency and have been authorized by management will independently perform advanced gun dog or firearm-related training activities.

6. CLIENT & HANDLER EDUCATION

A critical responsibility of the Trainer is teaching the owner, not simply training the dog.Trainers may conduct:

• Private lessons
• Owner handoffs Graduations
• Board-and-train transitions
• Group classes
• Demonstrations
• Training seminars
• Homework instruction
• Follow-up coaching

The Trainer must be able to clearly explain:

• What the dog has learned
• Why an exercise is being performed
• How the owner should execute the exercise
• How and when to use training equipment
• Appropriate timing
• Expectations for consistency
• Common handler mistakes
• How to continue training at home

The Trainer should leave clients with clear, practical, repeatable instructions rather than overwhelming them with unnecessary technical terminology.

7. DOG EVALUATION & TRAINING PLANSAssist with evaluating dogs entering QK Dogs' training programs.Responsibilities may include:

• Reviewing behavioral and training history.
• Identifying strengths and weaknesses.
• Assessing obedience and engagement.
• Identifying environmental challenges.
• Evaluating handler/dog communication.
• Establishing appropriate training priorities.
• Recording progress.
• Communicating concerns to management or the appropriate training lead.

Training plans should be based on the dog's individual needs while remaining consistent with QK Dogs' established methodology.

8. TRAINING DOCUMENTATIONAccurate documentation is an essential component of the position.The Trainer is responsible for appropriately documenting:

• Training sessions
• Progress
• Behavioral observations
• Significant changes
• Challenges or setbacks
• Client communications
• Homework
• Equipment used when required
• Safety concerns
• Incidents
• Recommendations for continued training

Documentation should be timely, factual, professional, and understandable to another QK team member who may work with the dog in Gingr.

9. DOG CARE & KENNEL OPERATIONSAlthough the primary responsibility is training, Trainers are part of the broader QK Dogs team and may be expected to assist with canine husbandry and facility operations during training downtime or operational need.This may include:

• Feeding
• Medication support as trained/authorized
• Cleaning
• Potty breaks
• Walks
• Hikes
• ATV activities where authorized
• Enrichment
• Daycare support
• Kennel care
• Grooming/bathing assistance
• Monitoring dogs for changes in behavior or health
• Reporting abnormalities to the appropriate team member

A Trainer is expected to contribute to the operation rather than remain exclusively focused on training when other legitimate operational needs exist.

10. SAFETY & PROFESSIONAL STANDARDSThe Trainer is responsible for maintaining a professional, controlled, and safe training environment.This includes:

• Maintaining appropriate dog-to-dog safety.
• Properly securing dogs.
• Inspecting training equipment before use.
• Following QK safety procedures.
• Following established firearm and live-bird safety procedures.
• Reporting injuries, escapes, incidents, or unusual behavior immediately.
• Maintaining awareness of surroundings.
• Following established emergency procedures.
• Never taking unnecessary risks with a dog, client, coworker, or equipment.

11. TEAMWORK & COMMUNICATIONThe Trainer works closely with:

• Director of Training
• Operations Management
• Kennel Care
• Front Desk
• Other Trainers
• Trainer Assistants
• Management
• Clients

The Trainer must communicate professionally and promptly regarding:

• Dog progress
• Behavioral concerns
• Client concerns
• Schedule changes
• Training challenges
• Safety concerns
• Equipment issues
• Health observations
• Program recommendations

The Trainer is expected to see something, say something rather than allowing problems to continue unreported.

12. TRAINER DEVELOPMENTQK Dogs expects Trainers to continually develop their technical knowledge, handling ability, timing, communication, and understanding of the QK methodology.

Training development may include:

• Shadowing senior Trainers
• Demonstration sessions
• Hands-on evaluations
• Video review
• Skills assessments
• Mentorship
• Train-the-Trainer development
• Continuing education
• Internal training meetings
• Staff demonstrations
• Client lesson observation

Trainers should be receptive to coaching and willing to modify their technique when instructed.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONSA successful QK Dogs Trainer demonstrates:

Technical Competency

• Strong dog-handling skills
• Appropriate timing
• Clear communication
• Understanding of learning theory and canine behavior
• Ability to execute QK methodology
• Safe and competent equipment use
• Ability to progress a dog appropriately

Consistency

• Follows established QK procedures
• Maintains consistent standards
• Does not create conflicting instructions for clients
• Communicates changes appropriately
• Documents work accurately

Professionalism

• Presents professionally
• Communicates respectfully
• Maintains client confidentiality
• Represents QK Dogs appropriately
• Maintains composure in challenging situations

Coachability

• Accepts feedback
• Asks questions
• Practices new techniques
• Demonstrates improvement
• Understands that mastery of QK methodology is an ongoing process

Leadership Potential

Experienced Trainers may be given additional responsibility for:

• Mentoring Trainer Assistants
• Demonstrating training techniques
• Assisting with Trainer development
• Conducting demonstrations
• Supporting group classes
• Assisting with program development
• Helping maintain consistency across the training team

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated experience handling and training dogs.
• Strong understanding of canine behavior and learning principles.
• Ability to safely handle dogs of varying size, breed, temperament, and training level.
• Ability to work around barking, jumping, pulling, and high-drive dogs.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients and coworkers.
• Willingness to learn and execute QK Dogs' established methodology.
• Ability to receive and implement coaching.
• Ability to work independently once appropriately trained and authorized.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Professional dog training experience.
• Experience with off-leash obedience.
• E-collar experience.
• Gun dog / sporting dog experience.
• Hunting experience.
• Experience teaching dog owners.
• Experience with group classes.
• Experience working with high-drive or working breeds.
• Professional certifications or continuing education in canine training/behavior.
• Experience working in a professional kennel, training facility, veterinary, sporting dog, or canine services environment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires the ability to:

• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Handle dogs of varying sizes and strength.
• Safely restrain and control dogs when necessary.
• Lift and carry equipment and supplies.
• Work outdoors in hot, cold, wet, and changing weather conditions.
• Walk/hike uneven terrain.
• Work around barking and physically demanding dogs.
• Safely operate or work around QK-approved equipment.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The Trainer will work in a dynamic canine facility and may be exposed to:

• Multiple dogs
• Barking
• Dog hair, dander, dirt, mud, and outdoor conditions
• Cleaning chemicals
• Live birds
• Field environments
• ATVs and other equipment
• Firearms during authorized gun dog activities
• Variable weather conditions

Employees are expected to maintain appropriate professional conduct regardless of the environment.

KEY EXPECTATION

QK Dogs is not looking for someone who simply has their own way of training dogs. We are looking for a professional who can learn, execute, and ultimately teach the QK Dogs system.The successful Trainer will demonstrate the ability to:

Learn the methodology → Execute the methodology → Demonstrate consistency → Teach the methodology → Develop others.

As proficiency and trust are established, additional responsibilities and leadership opportunities may become available.

• Trainer Salary: $55k-$85k
• Hours 7am-3:30pm, with opportunity to Private Lessons 330pm-6:00 pm
• Training Assistant Hourly Rates $19.00-$23.00, Hours 7am-3:30pm

Pay: $55,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• On-the-job training
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Professional development assistance

Experience:

• Dog Handling: 4 years (Required)
• Dog Training : 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $55,000 - $85,000