Professional Dog Walker & Canine Enrichment Specialist

Looking for a career that gets you out from behind a desk? At Sniff San Francisco, you'll spend your days exploring the city's parks, building relationships with incredible dogs, and learning the art and science of canine behavior. We don't just walk dogs—we develop them through structured play, reward-based training, and active engagement. We're one of San Francisco's highest-rated dog care companies, and we're looking for exceptional people who want to build a career in professional dog care. No professional dog experience is required. We provide comprehensive paid training in dog handling, canine behavior, reward-based training, and everything you'll need to become a permitted San Francisco dog walker. This is a profession with room to grow—not just a job. Before You Apply This is an active, physically demanding position. You'll likely thrive here if you're the kind of person who would rather spend the day outdoors than behind a computer. Every day you'll: Walk 8–12 miles throughout San Francisco. Spend 6–8 hours outdoors, rain or shine. Climb hills, stairs, and uneven terrain. Safely manage groups of energetic dogs. Stay alert, engaged, and moving for most of your shift. If you're happiest hiking, running, backpacking, working outdoors, or being active all day, you'll probably love this job. Every day is different, but your responsibilities include: Leading structured group walks throughout San Francisco. Reinforcing positive behaviors using modern, reward-based training methods. Helping dogs build confidence through play, enrichment, and socialization. Monitoring canine body language and ensuring the safety of every dog in your care. Working closely with teammates in the field—our walkers support one another, and you're never alone. Building trusted relationships with clients through excellent communication and professionalism. Become a valued member of San Francisco's leading dog care team, where you'll collaborate with seasoned professionals, who prioritize teamwork and active engagement. Enjoy comprehensive training and a supportive culture that emphasizes the importance of contributing positively to the lives of our furry friends. Who Thrives Here This role is ideal for people who are: Passionate about dogs and fascinated by animal behavior. Hikers, runners, climbers, or outdoor enthusiasts. Veterinary assistants, vet tech students, or aspiring trainers. Excellent communicators who enjoy working with both people and dogs. Reliable, punctual, and highly accountable. Calm under pressure and able to think quickly. Team-oriented and eager to learn. What You'll Learn You'll receive paid training and ongoing mentorship in: Canine behavior and body language. Reward-based (R+) training techniques. Group dog management and safety. Client communication and professional care. Off-leash handling and park management What We Offer Health, dental, and vision benefits Paid training and ongoing professional development Support earning your San Francisco dog walking permit A collaborative, experienced team that works together every day Real opportunities for advancement within the company Schedule: Monday–Friday, approximately 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, with occasional weekend work. We're Looking for Teammates—Not Temporary Employees Training a professional dog handler takes time, mentorship, and commitment. We're looking for people who are excited to build a career with us, continue learning, and become an important part of our team and the families we serve. If you're searching for meaningful work, enjoy being physically active, and believe dogs deserve exceptional care, we'd love to meet you. About Us Sniff San Francisco is a locally owned, full-service dog care company that offers walking, training, and boarding. Our approach is refreshingly different and predicated on a simple precept of active engagement. We engage not only the dogs under our care but also their moms and dads, our clients. We take a long-term view of our relationship with each client and think of it as a partnership. Animal care, pet care, vet tech, outdoors, hiking, biking, mountaineering, fitness, healthy living, dog training, hospitality, fun job, customer service, summer camp, rock climbing, camp counselor, tennis coach, dog walking, dog training, health and wellness, San Francisco, barista, server, career growth, dog trainer, service industry, backpacking, ecology, conservation, work outside, library jobs, teacher, teachers aid, musician, dog lover. team sport, team driven, detail oriented, high achiever, animal lover, positive attitude, growth mindset, #J-18808-Ljbffr Sniff San Francisco