Puppy Counselor
San Francisco, CA
Full Time
Experienced
Join Our Team @Topdogsf!
Who We Are
Top Dog SF is a leading professional dog training company in the Bay Area, proudly serving the community since 2004. Using modern, science-based positive reinforcement techniques, we help owners raise confident, well-rounded urban dogs, and it starts in puppyhood. Locally owned and operated, we focus on employee development, promoting from within, and continually improving our services.Our mission is guided by our D.O.G.S. Core Values:
- Dedication to Positive Training: We're committed to force-free, reward-based methods that strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners through compassionate care and communication.
- Optimal Safety and Care: We protect the health, safety, and happiness of every dog through small group sizes, professional expertise, and personalized attention.
- Growth and Learning: We give dogs and their owners the tools, training, and support needed for lifelong success and enrichment.
- Socialization and Community: We build connections through structured play, enrichment, training, and community engagement to create well-rounded, confident dogs.
Position: Puppy School Counselor
About the Role
The first few months of a puppy's life shape who they become. As a Puppy School Counselor, you'll guide our youngest students through their day in our Puppy Head Start program, combining training, socialization, play, and care to help each puppy grow into a confident city dog. You'll work alongside our lead trainer, carry out individualized training plans, and be a friendly, trusted point of contact for the pet parents we serve.Key Responsibilities
- Guide the Puppy School Day: Keep each day structured and running smoothly, balancing training, play, rest, and enrichment.
- Training Sessions: Run daily training sessions that build strong foundation skills and good habits during the most important stage of a puppy's development.
- Socialization & Exposure: Supervise age-appropriate puppy playgroups and positive new experiences, always at each puppy's pace.
- Follow Training Plans: Carry out training and behavior plans set by our lead trainer, track each puppy's progress, and share observations that help shape next steps.
- Read Puppy Body Language: Recognize stress, overarousal, and fear early, and adjust play or training to keep every puppy comfortable and safe.
- Basic Care: Feed, walk, clean up after puppies, and give medications as needed.
- Cleanliness: Maintain strict hygiene standards in play areas, crates, and common spaces, which matters especially for young puppies still completing vaccinations.
- Health Monitoring: Watch for changes in behavior or health and report concerns to management.
- Customer Service: Be a warm, professional point of contact for pet parents. Greet clients at drop-off and pickup, give clear updates on their puppy's day and progress, answer questions, and help owners keep training going at home. Handle check-ins and check-outs using our software (training provided).
What We're Looking For
- Dog Training Certification: Preferred (CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, or similar).
- Experience: Hands-on experience working with or training dogs using positive reinforcement; puppy experience strongly preferred.
- Knowledge of Puppy Development: Understanding of how puppies learn and grow, and what to expect at different ages.
- Customer Service Skills: A friendly, professional manner with clients and the ability to explain training in a clear, encouraging way.
- Patience & Consistency: Puppies learn in small steps, and you celebrate each one.
- Physical Fitness: Ability to stand, bend, kneel, get down on the floor, and lift up to 50 lbs.
- Problem-Solving: Ability to handle unexpected situations calmly.
- Reliability: Consistent attendance and punctuality are a must.
- Teamwork: Patience, empathy, and adaptability, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Why Join Us?
At Top Dog SF, you'll work with a passionate team and enjoy these benefits after completing 60 full-time shifts:- Competitive pay starting at $[XX]/hour (based on experience)
- Quarterly performance reviews with potential for raises, bonuses, and a supported career development path
- Mentorship from our lead trainer and paid continuing education in training and behavior
- Paid sick time (up to 80 hours/year) for ALL employees
- Health Benefits: Group health insurance (50% covered) or monthly medical reimbursement (for full-time staff)
- Six paid holidays annually (for full-time staff)
- Monthly cellphone reimbursement (for full-time staff)
- Employer-sponsored IRA retirement account through CalSavers
- A stable schedule with a well-established company rooted in the community
Hours & Availability
- Puppy School Hours: Monday–Friday ([hours])
- Shifts: 6–8 hours with a 30- or 60-minute lunch break
- Part-Time: Minimum of 3 days a week
- Full-Time: 4–5 days a week preferred
How to Apply – What to Expect
First, apply through JazzHR and upload your resume. At Top Dog SF, we hire intentionally. Every candidate is asked to complete a short behavioral assessment called the Aptive Index as part of our application process.Why do we use it?
The Aptive Index helps us understand how you're naturally wired: how you make decisions, handle routine, respond under pressure, and work with a team. There are no right or wrong answers. We use it to make sure this role is a great fit for you, not just for us. Our best team members, including walkers who have grown into trainer roles, have taken this assessment, and it helps us set everyone up for success from day one.
It takes about 10 minutes and is completely confidential.
Complete your Aptive Index assessment here:
https://assessment.aptiveindex.com/s/vbDWIwPsEEwO
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