What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dog Trainer position at Wonder Puppy?
Company Overview
Wonder Puppy is a Puppy Parenting Center based in Portland, OR, dedicated to nurturing dogs under the age of 2. Our holistic puppy school and supply store create a supportive environment where pet owners can learn, grow, and develop strong bonds with their furry friends. While our primary focus is puppyhood, we warmly welcome dogs of all ages and stages to our community.
Job Title: Dog Trainer (Playgroups, Group Classes, and/or Private Sessions)
Company: Wonder Puppy
Location: Portland, OR
Job Type: Full-time
About the Role
Wonder Puppy is seeking passionate, reliable Dog Trainers to join our team. Trainers may work in one or more areas: playgroups and socialization, group classes, or private training sessions. This is a hands-on role working closely with dogs and their people to build skills, confidence, and strong relationships.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead playgroups, group classes, and/or private training sessions
- Manage schedules, client communication, and follow-ups
- Provide guidance and education to dog owners
- Maintain training spaces (setup, cleanup, organization)
- Complete client reports and documentation
- Support retail sales and promote services
- Attend team meetings, trainings, and ongoing education
- Uphold company policies, procedures, and training philosophy
Qualifications (Required)
- 21 years old
- At least 1 year of animal training experience
- Passion for working with dogs and people
- Strong communication, organization, and time management skills
- Availability evenings, weekdays, and weekends
- Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, and clean driving record
- Smartphone and ability to respond promptly to communication
- Willingness to work on-site, off-site, and in clients’ homes
- Commitment to positive reinforcement training methods
- Willingness to obtain Pet First Aid/CPR and CGC certification if not already held
Preferred Qualifications
- 2 years of positive reinforcement dog training experience
- Experience teaching group classes
- CPDT-KA (or similar) certification
- Experience in customer service, sales, or the dog industry
- Comfort with Google tools and basic tech platforms
Working Conditions
- Indoor and outdoor work environments
- Physical activity, including lifting up to 35 lbs
- Frequent interaction with dogs (including exposure to dander and bodily fluids)
- Combination of in-person work and administrative/computer tasks
- Some travel required for private sessions
What We Offer
- Supportive, team-oriented environment
- Opportunities for continuing education (stipends available)
- Professional development and growth opportunities
Equal Opportunity Employer
Wonder Puppy is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any protected status. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals.
Pay: From $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- On-the-job training
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
Salary : $24