Dog Trainer

About the Role

Carolark | The Canine Learning Centre is seeking a credentialed, force-free dog trainer to run our Puppy Day School program. In this hands-on daytime role, you will be responsible for delivering our written puppy curriculum, guiding each puppy through age-appropriate socialization and foundational skills, and keeping parents informed of their puppy’s progress. Your goal is to set every puppy up for success during this critical developmental window, in a safe, positive, and enriching environment.

Carolark is committed to a force-free and positive reinforcement training philosophy. The ideal candidate holds — or is actively working toward — a professional credential through IAABC, CCPDT, or PPG (or equivalent experience and knowledge).

Key Responsibilities

· Run the day-to-day operation of the Puppy Day School program, Monday through Friday during daytime program hours.

· Follow and deliver Carolark’s written puppy curriculum with consistency and care.

· Guide puppies through age-appropriate socialization, handling, enrichment, and foundational skills.

· Set each puppy up for success by structuring the day, environment, and activities to their developmental stage and individual needs.

· Document each puppy’s progress accurately and maintain clear, up-to-date records.

· Provide regular, friendly, and professional updates to parents on their puppy’s development.

· Practice safe handling of puppies at all times and closely monitor group dynamics and body language.

· Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment, including basic cleaning and sanitizing of floors, surfaces, and equipment, and cleaning up after puppies throughout the day.

· Communicate any concerns to Carolark’s management so we can work together toward resolution.

· Maintain a clean and sanitized work environment by starting laundry, loading/unloading the dishwasher, sanitizing work/play areas etc.

Qualifications

· A professional credential through IAABC, CCPDT, or PPG — or actively working toward one — or equivalent experience and knowledge.

· Confident and effective using force-free / fear-free training methods.

· A working knowledge of learning theory and canine development, with particular understanding of puppy socialization.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills for keeping parents informed.

· Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for documenting progress accurately.

· Excellent problem-solving skills and the patience to work through challenges with young dogs.

· Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

· Comfortable and confident being around dogs and puppies of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.

· Reliable, punctual, and able to commit to the full Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM schedule.

· Familiarity with Carolark’s programs is an asset but not mandatory.

To Apply

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your resume outlining your credentials and your experience working with dogs and their families to [email protected].

Pay: $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

• On-site parking
• Store discount

Work Location: In person