We are ready to grow our team! Could you be the next addition to the Unleashed Niagara team?
Interview Start Date: March 1, 2026
Start Date: TBD
Location: St. Catharines, Ontario
Open to Canadian residents | Local applicants preferred
Our team at Unleashed Niagara is growing, and we are excited to open two Dog Trainer Apprentice positions.
This apprenticeship is designed for individuals who are genuinely committed to learning professional, humane dog training from the ground up. Apprentices will be immersed in hands-on learning, shadowing experienced trainers, and gaining real-world experience working with dogs and their people.
This is a mentorship-based program built on positive reinforcement, clear communication, and ethical training practices. Skill in dog training takes time, consistency, and thoughtful practice—we do not rush the process.
For the right candidate, this role may lead to a long-term career with Unleashed Niagara.
Qualifications
- Highly motivated with a genuine passion for dogs and learning
- 18 years or older, younger can apply but there will be limitations due to insurance
- Previous animal or dog-related experience is a strong asset
- Enjoys working with both dogs and people
- Calm, confident, and respectful around animals
- Able to stay composed and professional in a busy environment
- Clear communicator with a strong sense of responsibility and initiative.
Apprenticeship Structure
6-month or 12-month training-focused apprenticeship
Approximately 8-10 hours per week shadowing trainers and learning core training theory and practical application. More hours if desired.
Responsibilities
- Shadowing certified trainers during lessons including sports and service dog work
- Practicing positive, force-free training techniques under supervision
- Assisting with lesson preparation and client support
- Providing enrichment and appropriate exercise for dogs
- Tasks that support the day-to-day operation of the business
- Hands on help with day care clients when applicable.
Admin Bonus
Administrative hours are traded for the opportunity to train your own personal dog in group classes at no cost allowing apprentices to apply skills in a supported learning environment.
3 admin hrs = 1 hour for group or private class.
Private or group whatever is best for the team.
- Answering emails and phone inquiries
- Client communication
- Social media assistance
- General business support
- Updating the website schedule
The Details
Total commitment: ~10-15 hours per week
Apprenticeship Fee:
- 6-month track: $2,000
- 12-month track: $3,800
+HST
(includes structured learning + hands-on training + mentoring; admin hours trade for free personal dog training)
Once ready you can start working towards your hands on hours for your CCPDT.
Readiness is dependent on individual progress.
How To Apply
Please email your application to info@unleashedniagara.com
The application is,
- A short video explaining why you would be a strong fit for this apprenticeship. Upload to YouTube and send us the link
- Your resume
If you are looking for an easy job, this is not it.If you are looking to build real skill, confidence, and a sustainable career in dog training, we would love to hear from you.
If you have previous experience working with dogs using balanced training methods and are interested in transitioning to a science-based, positive approach, we welcome your application.
Dog Trainer Apprenticeship – Expectations vs Reality
Expectation:
“I love dogs, so this will be easy and fun all the time.”
Reality:
You’ll absolutely have fun—but you’ll also be learning complex skills, observing closely, asking questions, and thinking critically. Dog training is as much about people, timing, and problem-solving as it is about dogs.
Expectation:
“I’ll be training dogs independently right away.”
Reality:
You’ll spend a lot of time watching, assisting, and practicing fundamentals before leading anything. Skill comes from repetition and mentorship—not rushing.
Expectation:
“This is just playing with dogs.”
Reality:
You’ll be learning behaviour, body language, reinforcement timing, class flow, and client communication. This is professional education, not casual dog time.
Expectation:
“I already have dog experience, so I’ll move faster.”
Reality:
Experience helps—but everyone starts here by learning our methods, values, and standards. Openness and curiosity matter more than ego.
Expectation:
“I’ll be told exactly what to do.”
Reality:
We guide and mentor, but we expect apprentices to think, reflect, ask questions, and take responsibility for their own learning.
Expectation: “This will be an easy side gig.”
Reality:
This is for people who want to build real skill and a long-term career in dog training.
If this still sounds exciting to you—we’d love to hear from you.