Dog Handler

Dog Handler Chicago, IL Job Details Part-time | Full-time $17 - $19 an hour 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Paid time off Vision insurance Employee discount Opportunities for advancement Qualifications Pet care CPR Certification Greeting customers First aid Pet grooming Sanitation procedures First Aid Certification Dog handling Safe environment creation Cleaning Animal welfare Guest services Escalation handling Leadership Entry level Under 1 year Full Job Description Dog Handler About At Top Dog, we're redefining pet care in the heart of Chicago's River North neighborhood. Our boutique daycare and overnight facility is designed to feel like a second home—safe, enriching, and thoughtfully curated for city dogs. Top Dog is a founder-led, self-funded company—not backed by private equity or institutional investors. This allows us to prioritize what matters most: exceptional care, strong team culture, and long-term relationships with our clients and community. We're building something special from the ground up, and we're looking for passionate animal lovers who want more than just a job—they want to be part of a purpose-driven team shaping the future of pet hospitality. Position Overview Top Dog is seeking a skilled, dependable Dog Handler to join our start-up team. This role is ideal for someone with professional dog handling experience who thrives in an active tame based environment while continuing to work hands-on with dogs. You'll play a key role in supervising playgroups, supporting enrichment activities, and maintaining Top Dog's high standards for safety, cleanliness, and guest experience. Core Responsibilities Startup & Launch (Pre-opening) Partner with leadership to execute facility launch Participate in on-site pre-launch training sessions & complete all training modules Support trial runs, mock days and soft opening Dog Care & Supervision Supervise group play and individual interactions. Read and respond to canine body language Monitor dog behavior, intervene appropriately to de-escalate high energy situations to maintain a safe environment. Implement enrichment activities (puzzles, sensory play, confidence building) Assist with feeding (close attention to diet/client instructions & monitor intake to report concerns), water breaks, and rest periods Provide individualized attention and care for dogs in our care. Help with capturing content of dogs in assigned playgroups Facility & Safety Standards Follow all safety and sanitation protocols Clean & sanitize play areas, suites, and common spaces Assist with dog transitions between areas Assist with emergency procedures when needed (i.e. first aid, dog altercations) Document basic behavior notes & escalate to leadership when appropriate Team Support Work collaboratively with leadership Follow direction and seek feedback to improve skills Support leadership in opening and closing procedures Maintain a calm, positive, professional attitude Client Experience Greet pet parents warmly during drop-off and pick-up Share basic updates about dogs' day, direct complex questions or concerns to leadership Represent Top Dog with professionalism and warmth Qualifications & Skills for the Job Required Comfortable handling dogs of all sizes and temperaments and a passion for working with dogs. Strong work ethic, reliability and punctuality Ability to stand, walk, and lift up to 50 lbs. throughout shift Comfortable in a fast paced, start-up environment with a willingness to wear multiple hats. Willingness to learn dog behavior and handling skills Ability to function well independently and at times of a stressful environment. Weekend and holiday availability 18 years or older Preferred 6+ months prior experience handling dogs in a group setting (personal, volunteer, shelter, or daycare) Interest in animal behavior or pet care careers CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain) Willingness to assist/support grooming staff with bathing needs (training provided) What We Offer Competitive pay based on experience Training and mentorship Clear growth path with opportunities for advancement within a fast-growing boutique brand Meaningful work caring for dogs in a supportive team-first culture Schedule Full and part time roles available, some early mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays How to Apply At Top Dog, we take a thoughtful approach to building our team. To be considered, please complete our application here: https://forms.gle/B4orURbkcji7qP6Q9 Applications submitted through Indeed without completing this step will not be reviewed.

Pay:

$17.00 - $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person