Canine Behavior & Training Specialist - Pet Trainer I

Healing Strides Counseling; Purcellville (VA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

401k with employer match

Paid time off

Job summary

National Veterinary Associates (NVA) seeks a Canine Behavior & Training Specialist to lead curriculum-based group classes and private sessions, helping pet parents improve bonding and communication with their dogs.

The role emphasizes applying learning theory, developing compassionate client guidance, and maintaining a safe, low-stress training environment while staying current with industry standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum of one year of professional canine training or animal behavior experience.
• Strong foundational understanding of operant conditioning, classical conditioning, and modern reinforcement-based training techniques.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex behavioral concepts into accessible instruction for clients.
• Proven ability to manage a variety of canine personalities and client needs with professionalism and composure.

Responsibilities

• Instructional Leadership: Facilitate engaging, curriculum-based group classes and customized individual training sessions for diverse breeds and temperaments.
• Behavioral Advocacy: Educate clients on canine behavior using learning theory and promote patience and realistic expectations.
• Safety & Environment Management: Maintain a low-stress training environment and manage group dynamics for comfort of pets and owners.
• Client Engagement: Act as a professional consultant for pet parents, providing actionable feedback and demonstrating training techniques that foster long-term bonding.
• Continuous Development: Participate in ongoing on-the-job training to stay current with industry standards and evidence-based training methodologies.

Skills

Operant conditioning

Classical conditioning

Reinforcement-based training

Communication

Adaptability

Job description

National Veterinary Associates (NVA) seeks a Canine Behavior & Training Specialist to lead curriculum-based group classes and private sessions, helping pet parents improve bonding and communication with their dogs.

The role emphasizes applying learning theory, developing compassionate client guidance, and maintaining a safe, low-stress training environment while staying current with industry standards.