Dog Walker & Associate Trainer, San Francisco, California - Full-Time/Part-Time

San Francisco, CA | Full-Time | $53,000–$58,000 + Benefits

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.

• Animal rescue or shelter volunteers.

• 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

• Full-time salaried position: $53,000–$58,000

• Including a 6-week paid internship. Ask for details

• 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.

What Makes Sniff Different

We don't believe in simply supervising dogs—we actively engage with them.

Our small dog-to-human ratios allow us to coach, train, and interact with every dog throughout the walk. Our walkers work as a team, so you're never alone at the park, and every outing is an opportunity to strengthen behavior, confidence, and social skills.

We're passionate about creating better lives for dogs, fun careers for the SNIFF team, and building lasting relationships with their families. That's why families across SF trust us with their furry family members.

Reducing our carbon pawprint is also important. We walk, which keeps our air clean; source local, ecologically sustainable products that are recycled, compostable, or renewable; and properly dispose of waste, leaving parks cleaner than when we arrive.

SNIFF SF would be nothing without its highly skilled team; we invest in training, coaching, mentorship, and support throughout each team member's tenure at SNIFF.