Canine Companion FT

Job Description

Job Description

Do you love dogs, enjoy staying active, and take pride in keeping animals safe, happy, and comfortable? The Dog Stop® Centreville is looking for dependable, hardworking Canine Handlers to join our team.

This is a hands-on position in a busy dog daycare and boarding facility. Our Canine Handlers supervise playgroups, provide daily care for boarding dogs, maintain clean and organized spaces, and work together to ensure every dog receives excellent care.

Responsibilities

• Supervise dogs during group play and recognize canine body language
• Maintain safe, controlled, and positive daycare environments
• Redirect inappropriate behavior and prevent unsafe interactions
• Feed dogs and provide water according to their individual care instructions
• Administer medications as directed
• Complete boarding, daycare, and enrichment activities
• Walk and care for dogs that are not participating in group play
• Clean kennels, playrooms, dishes, bedding, floors, yards, and common areas
• Report changes in a dog’s behavior, appetite, energy level, or health
• Follow all safety, sanitation, and emergency procedures
• Communicate clearly with managers, leads, and other team members
• Assist with opening, closing, and other assigned facility tasks

What We’re Looking For

• Dependable, punctual, and comfortable working as part of a team
• Patient, attentive, and confident around dogs of all breeds and sizes
• Able to stay focused in a fast-paced and sometimes noisy environment
• Willing to clean, work outdoors, and remain active throughout the shift
• Comfortable following detailed care and safety instructions
• Available for some weekends and holidays
• Previous animal-care experience is preferred, but we are willing to train the right person

Physical Requirements

This is an active position. Team members must be able to:

• Stand and walk for extended periods
• Bend, kneel, reach, and move quickly when necessary
• Lift approximately 40–50 pounds as needed
• Safely handle strong, energetic, or excited dogs
• Work indoors and outdoors in different weather conditions
• Tolerate barking, dog hair, cleaning products, and occasional messes

The Right Person for This Position

The ideal candidate understands that working with dogs is rewarding, but it is also physical and demanding. A large part of the job involves cleaning, monitoring behavior, staying alert, and completing tasks efficiently.

We are looking for someone who takes initiative, supports their coworkers, accepts coaching, and treats every dog with patience and care. Safety always comes first.

Why Join The Dog Stop®?

• Work with dogs every day
• Receive hands-on training in canine behavior and safe handling
• Build experience in daycare, boarding, enrichment, and animal care
• Join a team committed to the safety and happiness of every dog
• Opportunities for growth and additional responsibilities

Pay: $13.00+

Schedule: Full-time or part-time, including some weekends and holidays

The Dog Stop® Centreville is an equal opportunity employer.

Benefits:

• Employee discounts on retail
• Free Daycare for your dog after requirements are met
• Discounts on boarding
• Flexible schedule
• On-the-job training
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid training