Canine Coach
Work With Dogs at Dogtopia of Ankeny
Love dogs? Looking for a job where you can stay active, be part of a team, and help create a great experience for both dogs and their pet parents? Dogtopia of Ankeny may be the place for you.
Dogtopia is a leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services, and we are preparing to open a brand-new location in Ankeny, Iowa. We are looking for dependable, hard-working, dog-loving team members who are excited to help build something from the ground up.
This is a great opportunity for someone who has always wanted to work with dogs, as well as for someone who enjoys fast-paced, hands-on work and wants to be part of a growing business. No prior dog daycare experience is required. We provide training and will teach you how to work safely and confidently with dogs in a structured daycare environment.
At Dogtopia, daycare is about much more than watching dogs play. Our team helps create a safe, clean, fun, and engaging environment where dogs can socialize, learn, exercise, and make their BFFFs — Best Furry Friends Forever. We also help make each dog’s day memorable through special activities, themed events, photo days, treat days, and more.
Because this is a new location, every team member will play an important role in shaping the culture, routines, and guest experience at Dogtopia of Ankeny. All team members begin by learning the fundamentals of playroom management as a Canine Coach. Over time, team members may also have opportunities to learn additional responsibilities, including front desk support, spa services, cleaning procedures, and general facility support.
High-performing team members may have opportunities to grow into lead or management roles as the location becomes established.
Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
What we look for
We are looking for people who are:
Dog lovers
You genuinely care about the dogs in our care and want to help create a safe, positive experience for them.
Team players
You work well with others, communicate clearly, and understand the importance of supporting your team.
Dependable
You show up, stay engaged, and take your responsibilities seriously.
Curious and willing to learn
You are open to training, feedback, and continuous improvement.
Calm under pressure
You can stay focused and positive in an active, sometimes messy, fast-moving environment.
Honest and accountable
You value trust, responsibility, and doing the right thing.
What you’ll do
Supervise dogs in open play
You will actively manage groups of dogs in a structured playroom environment, helping reinforce appropriate behavior and maintain a safe atmosphere. This is not simply “playing with dogs.” It requires attentiveness, good judgment, and consistency.
Learn Dogtopia’s approach to canine behavior
You will be trained in Dogtopia’s positive reinforcement and redirection methods for addressing undesirable behaviors and helping maintain a balanced playgroup.
Monitor dog behavior throughout the day
You will observe dogs’ energy levels, play styles, and interactions and communicate with your team about any behavioral or safety concerns.
Help support a new store opening
You will participate in training, assist in establishing routines and standards, and help create a welcoming experience for dogs, pet parents, and fellow team members.
Maintain a clean and healthy environment
You will follow daily cleaning procedures, use pet-safe cleaning products, and help maintain a professional and sanitary facility at all times. Yes, this includes cleaning up after dogs.
Physical and job requirements
To be successful in this role, you should be able to:
- Be around groups of dogs of all sizes
- Stand, walk, bend, and move for extended periods of time
- Work in a fast-paced, active environment
- Lift up to 40 pounds
- Work flexible days and hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
Job details
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Location: Dogtopia of Ankeny, opening soon in Ankeny, Iowa
Pay: Starting at $12.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Benefits may include
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid training
- Vision insurance
Preferred qualifications
- English preferred
- Day shift preferred
- Night shift preferred
- Reliable transportation is a must
Apply to Dogtopia of Ankeny
If you are dependable, eager to learn, and excited about working with dogs in a structured, team-oriented environment, we would love to hear from you.
