Dog Trainer - Assistant

Whittier Dog Club is seeking motivated, reliable, and energetic individuals to join our growing team as a Canine Care & Training Assistant. This is not a traditional kennel position. This hybrid role combines structured kennel care and facility operations with hands-on dog handling, enrichment, obedience support, and training assistance throughout the day. Our team members play a direct role in helping dogs become calmer, more confident, and better behaved through structured routines, proper handling, and daily engagement. This position is ideal for individuals looking to gain real-world experience in: Dog training Animal behavior Dog handling Structured daycare management Boarding operations Canine enrichment Professional pet care No professional training experience is required for the right candidate. We are willing to train motivated individuals who are coachable, hardworking, and passionate about dogs. Position Structure Our facility operates on structured 6-hour shifts.

Each shift is divided into:

Phase 1 — Facility Operations & Kennel Care (First 2 Hours) Team members assist with: Cleaning and sanitizing kennels and play areas Feeding and watering dogs Administering medication as needed Receiving and giving back dogs to pet parents Facility upkeep Potty rotations and kennel management Preparing enrichment tools and training equipment Maintaining cleanliness and safety standards throughout the facility Phase 2 — Training Assistant & Dog Handling (Next 4 Hours) Team members transition into hands-on work with dogs, including: Assisting trainers with obedience and behavior work Structured leash walking and dog handling Place work, engagement drills, and enrichment activities Structured socialization and daycare management Supporting calm behavior and proper dog interactions Learning real-world handling and training techniques from senior staff This role is active, hands-on, and fast-paced. Employees should expect to be on their feet, moving, cleaning, walking dogs, and working directly with animals throughout the shift. Duties Assist trainers in implementing daily training exercises and structured routines Safely handle dogs of various breeds, sizes, and temperaments Monitor dog behavior, health, and stress levels Maintain cleanliness and sanitation throughout the facility Support enrichment programs and structured play sessions Be comfortable making videos, taking pictures and writing in logs Observe and report behavioral or health concerns to senior staff Maintain a calm, professional, and structured environment for dogs and clients Assist with feeding, kennel rotations, and daily facility operations Follow established safety and handling protocols at all times Qualifications Comfortable handling medium to large breed dogs Strong work ethic and willingness to learn Reliable transportation and punctuality Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work in an active environment Team-oriented mindset with positive communication skills Ability to remain calm under pressure in fast-paced situations Preferred but Not Required Kennel or daycare experience Dog handling experience Veterinary assistant or shelter experience Dog sport or working dog knowledge Interest in pursuing dog training professionally What We Offer Paid hands-on training and mentorship Real-world dog handling experience Clear opportunities for advancement Structured learning environment Positive team culture Opportunity to grow within the dog industry Potential growth opportunities include: Training Assistant Junior Trainer Day Training Handler Senior Trainer Schedule Part-Time & Full-Time Available Structured 6-hour shifts Weekend availability required Potential shift times:

Morning Shift:

6:00 AM•12:30

PM Mid Shift:

12:00 PM•6:30

PM Evening Shift:

4:00 PM•10:00 PM About Whittier Dog Club Whittier Dog Club is a structured dog training, boarding, and daycare facility focused on creating calm, engaged, and well-balanced dogs through proper handling, enrichment, and balanced training methods. We believe in structure, accountability, teamwork, and creating a positive environment for both dogs and staff. If you are passionate about dogs and want to build real experience in the dog industry, we'd love to hear from you.

Pay:

$18.00•$24.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount

Work Location:

In person