Dog Trainer Schools, Learn to be a Dog Trainer, Dog Training Careers

Welcome, Mary Ellen, our newest student!
Click here to read Mary Ellen's bio.

Mary Ellen with Radar and Pinky

the pawsitive dog is committed to the canine community through education of dogs, owners and up -and-coming professionals. In addition to our private training center, our train the trainers (TTT) program helps to bring qualified trainers and handlers into the industry allowing us to help more teams develop enjoyable lifelong partnerships.

Are you interested in pursuing a career in the dog industry? Whether it's dog walking, day care or training, we can help. Learn from the best and apply to our train the trainers program today!

the pawsitive dog has occasional openings for qualified applicants. Designed to fully immerse students, a completed (Level I - V) TTT program requires approximately 1 full-time year of education, but can be completed part-time as well. Students who have successfully completed our unique program may have the opportunity to continue as a part of the + dog team with a paid part-time or full-time position.

TTT courses must be taken consecutively and fees are as follows:

Level I - breed, behavior & basics (500 hours, $6500). An introduction to a multitude of different dog breeds, temperaments, and the basics of obedience and behavior. Here's your chance to handle predictable intermediate and advanced + dogs who essentially train you as you refine your handling skills. Designed to teach the fundamentals, expect equal hours of observation and canine handling.
Level II - evaluate, assist & apply (500 hours, $5500). An expansion of the basics, this course teaches in -depth canine assessment skills as well as the handling of novice + dogs. In this program, you'll have the chance to work dogs in our watch your dog work sessions providing you with the opportunity to handle dogs in front of their owners (a necessary skill for professional teaching and training later).
Level III - teach, train & title (500 hours, $4500). Take your foundation one step further and begin to teach discounted private sessions under the supervision of + dog faculty. You'll also be building your credentials, experience and exposure in the field by getting Canine Good Citizen, Therapy Dog and Companion Dog titles.
Level IV - precision, perfection & profession (500 hours, $3500). Expect to evaluate and handle any and all dogs that come through the training center. A strong emphasis on client interaction and teaching discounted semi-private and group classes under the supervision of + dog faculty.
Level V – franchise. Have your own + dog training center. Potential expansion opportunities available for the right candidates.

Ideal TTT candidates must be outgoing, high-energy people whose experience demonstrates a strong work ethic and who enjoy working in a challenging, fast-paced, team-focused environment. At + dog , we take pride catering to the needs of dogs and their owners, so a keen love of dogs must be complemented by strong people skills and the ability to make a serious commitment.

For consideration, candidates must also have demonstrated the capability to take initiative, have a passion for learning and exhibit a desire to contribute to the continued success of the pawsitive dog, a two-time Boston Magazine choice for "Best Pet Care, 2001" and "Best Dog Trainer, 2012" and a five time winner for #1 Dog Training on Boston's A-List.

A minimum of an Associate's degree is required, completion of at least 10 traditional classes at + dog, along with the willingness to sign a non-compete, currently own a dog (or have the ability to foster) and the cooperation to be thoroughly vetted - the pawsitive dog does background checks.

To be considered, all of the following must be submitted:

a current resume
1 personal and 2 professional references with contact information
a letter of intent describing what you would like to achieve from the train the trainers program, how you will contribute to the continued success of the pawsitive dog and why you feel you are the best choice for this unique opportunity
hours/days available

Serious applicants, please call 617.541.1000 with any questions or submit your application package to the pawsitive dog , 274 Southampton Street, Boston MA 02118.

See what past + dog TTTs are doing now!

debbie potter – Dependable Partners Dog Training, KY
www.dependablepartners.com

"One of the best decisions I ever made was to intern at the pawsitive dog with Jenifer Vickery and Breslin Benyo. Since I worked full-time elsewhere, I would eagerly look forward to the afternoon when I would make my way over to + dog, where I learned so much more than I had even hoped to about dog breeds, behavior, and handling. The hands-on approach that Jenifer takes and uses with interns is exceptional. Over time, I was able to take on more responsibility and handle dogs with more challenging issues. Under their one-on-one supervision, my handling skills improved and I learned that what works with one breed might not be what is needed for similar behaviors in another breed. Jenifer and Breslin are the best – they're patient, insightful, and know so much about dogs. I am so glad to have had the benefit of their guidance and knowledge."
terence kirby - My Dog's Mind, NH
www.mydogsmind.com

"I first met Jenifer at a Sport Dog Competition in Maine. What made her stand out was how much fun she was having with her dog and how relaxed she was - she and her dog placed 1st that day. I introduced myself and asked if she would consider taking me on as an intern at The Pawsitive Dog in Boston. After some time she agreed and I became her first 'real' intern.

"During my training stay, I learned how to evaluate a dog and just as importantly, evaluate the owner. I learned all phases of dog training from puppy development to behavior modification. I observed group classes that were creative and dynamic, something I still strive for in my own teaching. Additionally, I titled my first dog as a part of the program earning a Canine Good Citizen award, Temperament Test certification, and a UKC Companion Dog title. Above all I still speak with Jenifer frequently, bouncing questions off her, getting new tips on training and laughing a lot. I have owned my own successful dog training school for the last 10 years and I owe much of my success to my time spent at The Pawsitive Dog. Thanks, Jen!"
maria mikhail - A Dog's Day, CT
www.adogsdayct.com

"The time I spent interning at the pawsitive dog was life changing. Jenifer and her team helped me grow from a first time dog owner to a small business owner who was able to open my own pet sitting/dog walking company. The skills I gained from watching Jenifer teach and train were so valuable and gave me such a deep appreciation for every dog and every owner as well. I was encouraged to push myself and really take a hands-on approach within all aspects of the business which proved to be a part of the internship that I enjoyed a great deal and helped me prepare for my own business. While I recently closed my company to stay at home with my children, the skills and experiences I gained at the pawsitive dog training facility will always be part of my life and I'm grateful for that."
denise bolen
teri ebersole

"I use so much of what I learned from my time at The Pawsitive Dog in our everyday operations here at My Dogs Mind. Jenifer Vickery remains a great resource and friend as well as an inspiration to better myself as a trainer and business owner. My decision to do my internship at TPD played a major role in where my life is today."
— Terence

If you know a dog-owner team who could benefit from a + dog education, share this site.
Thank you for your help paving the way toward a better life for humans & canines.

*NOTE: + dog is an independently owned dog-training center, not affiliated with Boston Red Dog and/or its trainers.

the pawsitive dog training center, + dog, is Boston, Massachusetts' premier dog training facility. Our dog training professionals offer a variety of personalized programs including, but not limited to, dog obedience training, dog behavior and dog owner education. the pawsitive dog offers creative, personalized alternatives to canine classes, dog day care and dog boarding through individualized dog training programs including dog day school, overnight boarding and training stays at camp pawsitive dog, doggie field trips, home visits, Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog training and more.