Canine Excellence — servicing Petaluma through Novato, CA
We are currently hiring a passionate, enthusiastic Monday–Friday Dog Walker/Handler to join our team and assist with our popular Petaluma Walk & Train program.
Schedule: Monday–Friday, roughly 8:00 AM–1:00 PM
Starting Pay: $100–$120/day, based on experience
Pay Schedule: Every 2 weeks
Location: Petaluma/Penngrove
Company vehicle and gas provided after training
This is a long-term position — not a temporary or seasonal 3–6 month job.
Demonstrating reliability, good judgment, strong work ethic, the ability to follow direction, problem-solving skills, and dedication can quickly lead to additional pay, bonuses, supplemental work, and future growth within the company.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
🐾 Loves ALL dogs.
🐾 Has a basic knowledge of dog breeds, behavior, and canine body language.
🐾 Previous professional experience in the canine industry is not required, but is highly recommended — dog walking, kennels, veterinary work, training, etc. Horse experience is awesome too!
🐾 Has a valid California driver’s license.
A minimum of 3 years of driving experience with a clean driving record is required.
🐾 Is available Monday through Friday, roughly 8:00 AM–1:00 PM. Hours can vary slightly depending on the day, season, and weather.
🐾 Must be physically capable of walking approximately 3+ miles and remaining active/on your feet for 1.5–2+ hours at a time.
🐾 Must be comfortable and prepared to safely handle multiple large, strong, and high-energy dogs, including dogs that may pull or become excited on leash.
🐾 Must be able to lift, assist, and safely load/unload dogs from company vehicles. Applicants should be capable of lifting approximately 50–75 lbs when needed.
🐾 This position requires frequent bending, squatting, kneeling, reaching, climbing in and out of a van, and repeated loading/unloading throughout the day.
🐾 Must be able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven walking surfaces.
🐾 Must be physically capable of carrying dog gear, water, supplies, and other equipment as needed.
🐾 Is comfortable cleaning up after them. 💩
🐾 Lives in Petaluma or Penngrove, as a company vehicle will eventually be provided and kept at your residence.
🐾 Is responsible, reliable, and punctual.
🐾 Is comfortable interacting professionally with clients and the public when needed.
🐾 Can work independently while also being a dependable member of a team.
🐾 Owns a smartphone for viewing schedules, GPS/navigation to client pickup and drop-off locations, communication, and taking photos.
🐾 Must be able to pass a background check.
🐾 Has good judgment and common sense, can troubleshoot problems, and does not panic under pressure.
🐾 Our walkers should enjoy the adventures just as much as the dogs do!
JOB PERKS 🐶
• Become part of one of the North Bay Area’s largest, reputable 5-star dog walking and training businesses.
• Become part of a family you never knew you needed.
• Company van, gas card, leashes, water bowls, and poop bags provided after the training period — for work use only.
• Spend your mornings hanging out with dogs and adventuring around Petaluma.
• Build relationships with a large and diverse pack of dogs — and some pretty great humans too.
• Competitive daily pay.
• Opportunities for additional income through solo dog walks and pet-sitting jobs for both current and outside clients.
• Bonus pay for recruiting new clients.
• Certified or experienced dog trainer? Higher starting pay may be available, along with opportunities for supplemental client-training work.
• Weekends off.
• Holidays off.
• Paid major holidays off.
• Paid training.
• Great exercise, fresh air, and lots of dogs.
• Make new friends and incredible connections.
90-day probationary introductory period.
❗️HOW TO APPLY❗️
FIRST: Please make sure you have read the requirements above and meet the major qualifications before applying.
SECOND: DO NOT REPLY TO THIS CRAIGSLIST POST. You will not receive a response through Craigslist.
THIRD: Go give our Facebook and Instagram some love, and give our website a sniff to learn more about our popular Walk & Train program and our other services.
Our website is currently undergoing a little facelift, so please excuse any temporary glitches. 😊
THEN: If this sounds like the job for you, please complete the Employment Application at:
www.caninexcellence.com
🔸 BONUS ROUND 🔸
Want to move your application toward the top of the pile?
Send us a personal email telling us:
• Why you are interested in this position and the dog-care industry
• Your professional goals
• Why you think you would be a great fit for Canine Excellence
• Any relevant dog, animal-care, training, customer-service, or driving experience
• Proof of a clean DMV record
Extra professional references are always a plus.
📧 caninexcellence@gmail.com
Enthusiasm matters! We want someone who is genuinely excited about the dogs, the work, and becoming part of our team.
Good luck — we’re looking forward to meeting you!
May the best candidate walk on. 🐾
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.