Experienced Dog Trainer

Dog Trainer

About The Dog Patch

The Dog Patch is a premier pet resort offering doggie day care, boarding, grooming, and now an innovative training program. Our facility features over 7,000 sq. ft. of indoor space and 3,500 sq. ft. of outdoor areas. We are dedicated to using a reward-based and positive approach to training—grounded in evidence-based outcomes—to improve the lives of dogs and their families within our community.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Dog Trainer to lead our new training program. In this role, you will design and deliver group classes and private sessions, conduct behavior assessments, follow-up consultations and contribute to curriculum development. You will also serve as an ambassador for The Dog Patch, representing our values at community events and helping to promote our services.

Key Responsibilities

Group Classes & Private Sessions:

o Teach a variety of classes, including puppy preschool, puppy kindergarten, basic manners, advanced manners, reactive dog classes, tricks classes, board & train and specialized workshops.

o Conduct in-home private training sessions tailored to individual client needs.

Behavior Consultations & Assessments:

o Evaluate dogs’ behavior for play group placements.

o Provide behavior assessments and develop follow-up training plans for issues such as separation anxiety, resource guarding, dog-dog reactivity, and dog-people reactivity.

o Assist with behavior consults and conduct behavior clinics.

Curriculum Development & Administration:

o Collaborate in the creation and ongoing development of training curriculum and lesson plans.

o Handle administrative tasks such as phone/email follow-up, record keeping, and maintaining organized training areas.

Team & Community Engagement:

o Work independently with minimal supervision while also thriving as part of our dynamic team.

o Act as a Dog Patch ambassador by representing our brand at local dog festivals and marketing events (approximately 1–3 times per year).

Qualifications & Experience

Education & Training:

o Completed a professional dog training program and/or apprenticed under an experienced trainer.

o Possession of certifications such as CPDT, CBCC-KA, CDBC (or actively working towards a comparable credential) is preferred—but extensive experience will also be considered.

Experience:

o Minimum of 3+ years of group class instruction.

o At least 2+ years of one-on-one private lesson experience.

o Proven experience in behavior assessment and remediation.

Technical Skills:

o Proficient in various positive training methodologies (e.g., clicker training, lure and reward, toy training) and comfortable using humane training tools.

o Strong knowledge of canine body language and play behavior.

o Proficiency in computer use, with access to a laptop for administrative tasks and record keeping.

Personal Attributes:

o Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

o Creative, detail-oriented, and a strong problem-solver.

o Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a diverse, fast-paced environment.

o Professional, flexible, organized, and able to work well under pressure.

Additional Expectations

Scheduling:

o Availability to teach classes for 2 to 6 hours (or more if desired) per week, typically on weekends or weeknights.

o Flexibility to conduct in-home private training sessions based on client needs.

Commitment to Continuous Learning:

o A passion for self-study and continuing education in dog training and behavior.

Please note that this position is physically demanding. Applicants must be able to:

Walk and Stand for Extended Periods: You will be on your feet and actively moving throughout your work shift.

Lift and Carry Up to 40 lbs: The role requires the ability to lift and handle items weighing up to 40 lbs.

Physically Manage Untrained Dogs: You must be capable of safely and effectively controlling and working with dogs that may not have any command knowledge or prior training.

By applying, you acknowledge that you meet these physical requirements and are prepared for the physical demands of this role.

We will be seeking both full & part-time employees as we ramp up to grow this line of new service.

How to Apply

If you are ready to make a positive impact on the lives of dogs and their families—and to grow with an innovative, community-focused team—we want to hear from you!

Please visit our website at www.thedog-patch.com for more information, and submit your resume along with a completed application at:

https://www.thedog-patch.com/employment/

Address: 122 Linsley Ave., Brandon, FL 33511