Canine Behavior Specialist

Faithful Friends, Inc; New Castle (DE); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Faithful Friends, Inc is seeking a knowledgeable canine behavior trainer to support various activities related to dog care and training. Responsibilities include conducting assessments, assisting in training programs, and providing behavior support for dogs in shelter and foster situations.

The ideal candidate should have a bachelor’s degree in animal behavior or a related field, along with a minimum of two years of experience in dog training and behavior modification techniques. Strong communication skills and a passion for animal welfare are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of experience in canine training.
• Strong understanding of canine body language and learning theory.
• Good computer skills.

Responsibilities

• Support screening and counseling with surrender requests.
• Assist in training classes on dog care topics.
• Identify dogs needing additional behavior support.
• Interact with dogs in kennel areas.
• Adjust color assignments for dogs.

Skills

Canine behavior training

Positive reinforcement techniques

Effective communication

Teamwork promotion

Education

Bachelor’s degree in animal behavior

National certification from Karen Pryor Academy or Victoria Stillwell Academy

Job description

Responsibilities

• Support screening and counseling with surrender requests.
• Population monitoring through daily rounds.
• Assist with incoming transfers.
• Adjust color assignments for dogs to align with volunteer roles.
• Assign kennel placement based on needs of individual dogs.

Canine Behavior Assessments

• Determine a color assignment for each dog to align with volunteer roles.
• Interact with dogs in the kennel areas and exercise yards.
• Review staff and volunteer comments on individual dog interactions.
• Make recommendations for placement, foster, rescue or euthanasia as appropriate.

Behavior Modification & Enrichment Plans

• Identify dogs in need of additional behavior support.
• Assign behavior modification protocols to meet the specific needs of individual dogs.
• Provide additional enrichment plans for at‑risk dogs, including dog‑dog play dates or small group play, parallel walks, and play yard enrichment sessions.
• Assist with training and support of canine behavior modification volunteers.
• Track individual dog progress and record it.
• Provide behavior support for dogs in the shelter and foster parents.

Training Program Development and Maintenance

• Host training classes on a variety of topics for dog care employees, volunteers and long‑term fosters, including canine body language, skill building with shelter dogs, and arousal and reactivity.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an animal behavior field preferred.
• Minimum of two years of experience in canine training and positive reinforcement, force‑free behavior modification techniques.
• National certification from Karen Pryor Academy or Victoria Stillwell Academy, force‑free and position training a plus.
• Strong understanding of canine behavior, canine body language and learning theory.
• Well‑developed written and verbal communication skills.
• Friendly, energetic and a quick learner who enjoys a fast‑paced environment.
• Dedication to the philosophies of animal welfare at Faithful Friends Animals Society.
• Good computer skills.
• Effective communication skills to teach employees, volunteers, and customers and promote teamwork.

Compensation

Competitive compensation package offered.

Application Instructions

Please send resumes with professional references for consideration to Kim Dieter at [e-mail].