dog handler

Posted on August 15, 2026 by Employer details Atlas Paws

Job details

*About us* Atlas Paws is Toronto's friendliest dog daycare and boarding club. Three locations across the core, a busy grooming salon, and daycare groups that range from chihuahuas to leonbergers. Our team is small, scrappy, and dog-obsessed. *The role* You'll spend your day with the crew. Reading body language, managing play, breaking up the occasional zoomie spiral, making sure every dog goes home tired and happy. This isn't a sit-behind-a-desk job ? it's hands-on, fast-paced, and physical. If "I get to hang out with 30 dogs all day" sounds like a dream rather than a punishment, you'll fit right in. *What you'll actually do* * Supervise group play with dogs of all sizes (small dog room, big dog room, mixed group) * Read canine body language and intervene _before_ things escalate * Handle 20+ dogs at a time with calm confidence * Feeding, watering, medication administration (we train) * Cleaning: suites, play areas, the occasional accident (there are many accidents) * Check dogs in and out of suites for boarding * Keep detailed daily notes on each pup *What we need from you* * Genuine love for dogs across the entire size spectrum ? yes, even the 120-lb mastiff _and_ the 4-lb yorkie who screams * Physically fit: 8+ hours on your feet, occasional lifting to 50 lbs, bending, kneeling, the occasional sprint * Calm under pressure ? you can handle a scuffle, a sick dog, or a stressed owner without losing the plot * Strong spoken English (you'll be in constant communication with the team and clients) * Legally entitled to work in Canada * Reliable, punctual, team-first attitude * Flexible on schedule ? Atlas Paws runs 24/7. Most shifts are daytime, but occasional overnights, weekends, and holiday coverage are part of the role * Willing to get things done ? the floor doesn't mop itself *Bonus points* * Previous experience: daycare, boarding, vet clinic, shelter, training, walking * Pet First Aid + CPR certification * Multilingual (Toronto clients speak everything ? Mandarin, Cantonese, Spanish, Portuguese, Tagalog, French, Korean, you name it) * Comfort with grooming tools or nail trims * Fear Free certified preferred ? our entire team is certified, and we'll cover the cost if you're not yet *The deal* * Full-time or part-time, in-person, downtown Toronto * Competitive hourly wage (discussed in interview) * Staff discount on grooming and boarding * Real career path: Lead Handler ? Shift Supervisor ? Location Manager * You'll be surrounded by dogs all day. We're not going to oversell this ? if that doesn't sell itself, it's not your job. Pay: $20.00 per hour Benefits: * Casual dress * Flexible schedule Work Location: In person