Shelter Dog Trainer

About the Organization

Liberty Dogs™ is a premier Service Dog training program whose goal is to empower Veterans with disabilities to lead more independent and fulfilling lives - enhancing their well-being through the unconditional support that Liberty Service Dogs provide. Located on a 27-acre campus, it includes a training facility, dog housing, an administrative and multipurpose building, and accommodations for Veterans staying on campus to train with their Liberty Service Dogs.

The Shelter Dog Trainer is responsible for assessing, training, and behaviorally supporting dogs in a shelter environment to improve welfare, adoptability, and appropriate placement outcomes. This role focuses on humane, evidence-based training and behavior modification to address stress-related and common shelter behaviors while promoting safety for dogs, staff, volunteers, and the public. The Shelter Dog Trainer collaborates with shelter leadership, veterinary staff, and adoption teams to develop individualized behavior and enrichment plans and may identify dogs suitable for advanced training programs, adoption, foster placement, or alternative career paths.

• Conduct behavioral assessments for all incoming dogs, focusing on temperament, stress-related behaviors, handling tolerance, and adoptability.
• Develop and implement individualized training and behavior modification plans using LIMA-based, humane methods.
• Address common shelter behavior concerns including fear, reactivity, barrier frustration, leash skills, handling sensitivity, and kennel stress.
• Provide ongoing evaluation and adjust training plans based on length of stay, behavioral progress, and welfare indicators.
• Identify dogs who may be suitable candidates for advanced training programs or alternative placement pathways.

• Design and implement enrichment plans to support mental and emotional well-being and reduce stress-related behaviors.
• Monitor daily welfare indicators and advocate for behavioral or environmental interventions when needed.
• Work closely with veterinary staff regarding behavioral health, medication considerations, and overall welfare.
• Ensure dogs maintain appropriate body condition and are physically and behaviorally supported during their shelter stay.

• Maintain detailed and accurate records of each dog’s behavior, training progress, and evaluations in the shelter database.
• Collaborate with adoption, foster, and transfer teams to support appropriate placement decisions.
• Provide behavioral insights and recommendations to assist with adopter counseling and matchmaking.
• Support population management efforts by prioritizing training and behavior interventions that improve live outcomes.

• Train and mentor shelter staff and volunteers in safe handling, basic training techniques, and reading canine body language.
• Promote consistency in training and handling across all departments.
• Model professional, compassionate, and ethical animal care at all times.

• Represent the organization professionally during public interactions, events, and educational opportunities.
• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and compassionately with adopters, volunteers, and community members.
• Adhere to organizational policies related to safety, infectious disease control, and animal welfare standards.

• Maintain a thorough understanding of the LIMA training framework and ensure all training practices align with organizational and accreditation standards.
• Educate staff, volunteers, and foster caregivers on humane training principles and best practices.
• Remain current with…