With the increasing desire for our dogs to be considered family, the animal care industry has grown drastically in the last few years. Luckily for dog lovers all over the world, that means there are plenty of opportunities to work directly with our furry friends. If you want to combine your passion for dogs with your work, this list is for you. Today I’m sharing 7 jobs that will allow you to work alongside mans best friend

1. Dog Walker

Dog walking has very few requirements when it comes to education and experience. You can choose to start your own business by walking dogs for your family, friends and neighbors, or you can apply to be a dog walker through a local daycare or a service such as Rover or Wag!. As a dog walker you’ll be responsible for providing pups with some exercise and playtime while their owners are at work or out for the day. Dog walking typically allows for a flexible schedule which is perfect for somebody looking to make some extra cash on the side.

Average Salary: $22,000 to $35,500 (source: ziprecruiter.com)

2. Dog Sitter

Like dog walking, dog sitting doesn’t have any real requirements. As a dog sitter you will be responsible for watching a family’s dog(s) while they’re out of town, whether at your house or at theirs. You will be making sure the dog is fed, walked, and let out to go to the bathroom while the owners are gone. You can start your own business as a dog sitter by offering to watch dogs for family and friends who may be going out of town!

Average Salary: $19,000 to $26,000 (source: ziprecruiter.com)

3. Dog Groomer

Dog groomers are responsible for the care and upkeep of a dogs coat and nails. Dog groomers will typically be trained in nail trimming, ear cleaning, teeth brushing, bathing, and hair cutting for all different dog breeds. Most dog groomers are trained through a grooming school or an apprenticeship which can take between 6-10 weeks. As a groomer, you can choose between working for a salon, traveling to clients houses, or opening your own grooming business. 

Average Salary: $25,500 to $40,000 (source: ziprecruiter.com)

4. Dog Daycare Attendant

As a dog daycare attendant, your role will be to oversee the safe play of pups in the daycare. You’ll be trained on dog behavior to ensure every dog in your care is playing in an okay manner. You’ll also be responsible for breaking up fights between dogs and cleaning up after them as they use the bathroom. There are many dog daycare facilities throughout the country to apply to, or, you could start your own from your home if you have the space.

Average Salary: $20,000 to $24,000 (source: ziprecruiter.com)

5. Dog Trainer

Dog trainers train puppies and adult dogs on the basic commands and tricks that a dog should know. Many trainers work with classes of puppies on commands such as sit, stay, and leave it. As you get more experience in dog training you can move on to more advanced commands and tricks and even have the opportunity to become a service dog trainer. You can get certified to become a dog trainer through apprenticeships. 

Average Salary: $27,000 to $38,000 (source: ziprecruiter.com)

6. Vet Tech

Vet techs are the nurses of the veterinary world. As a vet tech you will administer medications, perform exams on pets, and check vital statistics. A vet tech is a great option for those wanting to work in the medical industry with animals, but not wanting to complete 8 years of schooling. To become a vet tech you will typically need a bachelors degree in animal sciences and you’ll also need to go through a vet tech program. 

Average Salary: $25,000 to $36,000 (source: ziprecruiter.com)

7. Veterinarian

Veterinarians are responsible for the medical care of not just dogs but cats and other animals as well. As a veterinarian you will examine and diagnose dogs and in special feeds you will perform surgery and any other care for them that they need. This is one of the most rewarding jobs in the animal field as it allows you to help dogs in a way nobody else can. To become a veterinarian you will need an 8 year doctorate degree.

Average Salary: $77,000 to $106,000 (source: ziprecruiter.com)