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C4
Coaching 4 Paws
Experienced Dog Trainer
Career Insights for Animal Trainer
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Based on Connecticut data
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What they do
An Animal Trainer trains animals to become familiar with human voices and contact, and to respond to commands. Trains dogs to assist people with disabilities. May train animals for a health, competition, or show. May train other animals such as horses, dolphins, and apes.
$37,605 / year median in Connecticut
+7% projected growth
Job Description
Join the Coaching 4 Paws Team Coaching 4 Paws is seeking an experienced Balanced Dog Trainer who is passionate about producing real-world results while building lasting relationships with clients and their dogs. We are looking for a confident trainer with strong handling skills, excellent communication, and a commitment to helping dogs and owners succeed through fair, structured, and effective training. This is not an entry-level position. We are looking for someone with a minimum of 2 years of professional dog training experience using balanced training methods. Responsibilities Conduct client evaluations to assess behavior, temperament, and training needs Develop individualized training plans based on each dog's goals Train dogs enrolled in our Board & Train programs Teach owners how to maintain and continue their dog's training after program completion Work with a wide variety of cases Safely handle dogs of all breeds, sizes, ages, and temperaments Utilize balanced training techniques appropriate to each individual dog Maintain detailed training notes and communicate progress with clients Provide exceptional customer service and build lasting client relationships Keep training areas clean, organized, and safe Work closely with fellow trainers and staff to ensure consistency in training Qualifications Minimum 2 years of professional dog training experience (required) Experience with balanced training methods Comfortable using and educating clients on training tools such as food, slip leads, prong collars, e-collars, clickers and long lines Strong understanding of canine behavior, learning theory, and behavior modification Excellent communication and coaching skills Ability to confidently handle challenging or aggressive dogs safely Reliable, punctual, and professional Valid driver's license and reliable transportation Ability to lift 50+ pounds and remain active throughout the day Preferred Experience Board & Train experience Conducting behavioral evaluations Working with reactive or aggressive dogs AKC, IGP, PSA, Ring Sport, or other working dog/sport dog background Experience training pet obedience and advanced off-leash reliability What We're Looking For The ideal candidate is someone who: Has a genuine passion for helping dogs and their owners Is motivated to continue learning and growing as a trainer Can think critically and adapt training to the individual dog Maintains professionalism under pressure Works well independently and as part of a team Takes pride in producing high-quality, lasting training results Why Coaching 4 Paws? At Coaching 4 Paws, we focus on creating clear communication, structure, and trust between dogs and their owners. Our trainers have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of cases, continue developing their skills, and make a meaningful impact on both dogs and families every day. If you're an experienced balanced trainer looking to join a team that values results, professionalism, and continued growth, we'd love to hear from you.