Job Description

Apprentice / Assistant Dog Trainer (Full-Time)

Are you looking for a hands-on career working with dogs , not just a job?

Do you want to learn a proven, professional dog training system and build real skills that can turn into a long-term career?

Off Leash K9 Training Spokane / CDA is hiring Apprentice / Assistant Dog Trainers to join our team.

This is an entry-level apprenticeship role designed for individuals who are motivated, coachable, and ready to work . You will train daily under experienced trainers and develop real-world dog training skills over time.

⭐ What This Role Is

• A structured apprenticeship with hands-on training
• Based at our Spokane training facility
• Includes daily work with real training dogs
• Progression path:
  Apprentice → Assistant Trainer → Lead Trainer (performance-based)

This is a physically active, structured, and demanding role —but highly rewarding for the right person.

⭐ Day-to-Day Responsibilities May Include

• Handling, training, and caring for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages
• Assisting senior trainers with structured training sessions and routines
• Working with puppies and obedience dogs, progressing to more complex cases over time
• Participating in training outings at parks and public locations
• Cleaning and maintaining kennels, training areas, and equipment
• Moving kennels and maintaining facility organization
• Picking up dog waste and maintaining a clean, sanitary environment
• Assisting with feeding, watering, washing and other daily care of all dogs
• Supporting team operations and daily workflow

⭐ Work Schedule & Environment

• Typically 30–40 hours per week - usually between the hours of 9 am - 5 pm
• Must be available for occasional  evenings, weekends, and some holidays
• Work is performed at our training facility and in public environments (parks, outings, etc.)

This is NOT a work-from-home position.

⭐ Physical & Work Demands

• Standing and walking for extended periods
• Handling small and large, strong or high-energy dogs
• Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Performing physical tasks including kennel movement and cleaning

⭐ What You Must Understand Before Applying

• Training involves repetition, structure, and consistency — not casual playtime
• You will perform high volumes of repetition with dogs daily
• Each dog requires consistent time, care, and attention (feeding, water, potty breaks, supervision)
• Safety protocols are strict and must be followed at all times

This role is demanding and requires discipline, consistency, and daily coaching .
It is not a casual or part-time hobby position .

⭐ Minimum Requirements

• Must live in the Spokane / Coeur d’Alene area
• Must pass a background check
• Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license
• Smartphone
• Available for days, evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Willingness to take direction and be coached daily

⭐ Who We’re Looking For

• Serious interest in learning professional dog training (not just being around dogs)
• Strong work ethic and reliability
• Coachable and able to apply feedback quickly
• Positive attitude and team-player mindset
• Comfortable working in a structured, fast-paced environment

No prior dog training experience required — we train the right candidates who are motivated and committed to learning.

Compensation & Growth

• Starting Pay: $20/hour
• Quarterly evaluations with opportunities for:
  • Pay increases
  • Performance bonuses

Performance bonuses are based on:

• Reliability
• Skill progression
• Contribution to training operations

Advancement is based on:

• Skill development
• Dog handling ability
• Reliability and consistency
• Overall performance

⭐ Career Development Path

As you grow in skill and experience, responsibilities increase.

Top performers demonstrate:

• Consistent attendance and reliability
• Continuous improvement in training skills
• Ability to handle more complex dogs over time
• Long-term commitment to the role

Note:
Assistant trainers do NOT handle client communication or end-of-training sessions initially. These responsibilities are introduced only after 9–12 months , based on performance and evaluation by senior staff.

About Off Leash K9 Training

Off Leash K9 Training is one of the largest dog training organizations in the United States , specializing in:

• Obedience training
• Board-and-train programs
• Behavior modification

We are a professional, structured, and results-driven training company focused on delivering real outcomes for dogs and their owners.

How to Apply

Submit:

• Your resume
• A short message explaining:
  Why you want to build a career in dog training

Before You Apply, Ask Yourself:

• Am I ready for a physically demanding, hands-on role?
• Can I take feedback and apply it consistently?
• Am I willing to do repetitive work to master a skill?

If yes — we want to hear from you.

We are hiring immediately. Limited positions available

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