Canine Fitness Trainer

The Canine Fitness Trainer is responsible for designing and implementing customized physical conditioning programs for dogs of all ages and athletic levels. Working within our state-of-the-art facility, you will help canine athletes reach peak performance and assist pet dogs in maintaining mobility, balance, and weight management. This role requires a deep understanding of canine anatomy and the ability to motivate both the dog and their human handler.

Key Responsibilities:

Fitness Evaluations: Conduct initial physical assessments to determine a dog’s current baseline for balance, flexibility, and core strength.

Custom Program Design: Create individual conditioning plans using specialized equipment (FitPAWS, peanuts, balance discs, and cavalettis) tailored to the dog’s specific goals—whether it’s preparing for an Agility trial or improving senior dog mobility.

Hands-on Coaching: Lead one-on-one sessions and small group classes, guiding handlers through proper form and safety protocols to prevent injury during exercise.

Progress Tracking: Maintain detailed digital records of each dog's milestones, adjusting exercise intensity and duration as the dog advances.

Equipment Management: Ensure all fitness equipment is sanitized, organized, and inspected daily for safety.

Collaborative Care: Work alongside our Agility and Obedience instructors to identify students who would benefit from supplemental fitness training to enhance their performance in the ring.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

Certification: Preferred certification from a recognized program (e.g., CPCFT - Certified Professional Canine Fitness Trainer, CCFT, or equivalent).

Anatomy Knowledge: A strong grasp of canine musculoskeletal structure and movement patterns (gait analysis).

Handling Skills: Ability to work with dogs of various temperaments using positive reinforcement and force-free motivational techniques.

Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills to coach human clients and explain the "why" behind specific exercises.

Physical Stamina: Ability to be on your feet for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and handle large, high-energy dogs.

Employee Benefits

At For Your K9, we believe in supporting the people who support our dogs. We offer a competitive benefits package designed for career-minded animal professionals:

Competitive Compensation: A stable hourly rate with opportunities for performance-based bonuses.

Professional Development: Annual continuing education stipend to maintain certifications or attend industry seminars (e.g., Fenzi Dog Sports Academy or specialized workshops).

Work-Life Balance: Flexible scheduling with a mix of weekday, evening, and weekend shifts to accommodate our class calendar.

Canine Perks: Highly discounted (or free) enrollment in our classes, including Agility, Nose Work, and Obedience for your own personal dogs.

Employee Discounts: Significant savings on retail products, high-quality treats, and specialized fitness gear.

Health & Wellness: Access to supplemental insurance plans and paid time off (PTO) for full-time staff members.

Collaborative Environment: The opportunity to work in a high-energy, supportive atmosphere surrounded by some of the top canine athletes and trainers in the region.