Dog Daycare Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of animal care, the role of a dog daycare manager has never been more crucial.

As our appreciation for pets continues to grow, so does the demand for individuals who can manage, nurture, and ensure the well-being of our canine companions in a daycare setting.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a dog daycare manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of dog daycare management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable dog daycare manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Dog Daycare Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Dog Daycare Managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a dog daycare facility, ensuring the safety and well-being of the dogs in their care, and liaising with pet owners.

They may also be involved in administrative tasks and staff management.

The duties and responsibilities of a Dog Daycare Manager include:

• Supervise and monitor the safety of dogs in the daycare
• Provide basic care to dogs, including feeding, watering, and administering medication as needed
• Plan and coordinate activities and games for dogs to stimulate their physical and mental health
• Inspect and clean dog daycare facilities to ensure a healthy and safe environment
• Train and manage staff, delegating tasks and ensuring they understand and adhere to safety protocols
• Handle administrative duties, such as scheduling, budgeting, and managing inventory
• Communicate effectively with dog owners, providing updates about their pets and addressing any concerns
• Administer first aid to dogs if necessary and be able to recognize when veterinary assistance is required
• Ensure compliance with local laws and regulations related to animal care
• Develop and implement policies and procedures for the daycare

 

Dog Daycare Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Dog Daycare Manager to oversee daily operations, ensure the welfare of all dogs in our care, and promote our services.

You will be responsible for supervising staff, maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for the dogs, and interacting with dog owners to ensure their satisfaction.

Our ideal candidate has a deep love for animals, excellent management skills, and the ability to handle dogs of all sizes and breeds.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of the dog daycare operations
• Train, supervise, and evaluate staff
• Ensure all dogs are cared for, including feeding, grooming, and administering medication as needed
• Coordinate playgroups based on size, age, and temperament of dogs
• Communicate with dog owners about their pet’s behavior and care
• Ensure that the facility is clean and safe at all times
• Handle customer inquiries, complaints, and billing
• Manage inventory of supplies
• Enforce all pet safety rules and regulations
• Promote the business and services through various channels

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Dog Daycare Manager or similar role
• Knowledge of different breeds and their behaviors
• Strong customer service and management skills
• Ability to handle dogs of all sizes and breeds
• First aid/CPR certification for pets is a plus
• High school diploma; certification in animal behavior or related field is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discount on pet care services and products

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Dog Daycare Manager
• Work Environment: Fast-paced environment dealing with animals and people. This role requires physical activity, including the ability to walk or stand for long periods, and the ability to lift heavy dogs when necessary.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Owner or General Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Dog Daycare Manager Do?

Dog Daycare Managers oversee the daily operations of a dog daycare facility.

They are responsible for the general well-being and safety of all dogs at the facility.

Their duties include supervising and training staff, scheduling shifts, and ensuring that the facility meets health and safety standards.

They also monitor the behavior and health of the dogs, intervening when necessary to prevent conflicts or address health concerns.

Dog Daycare Managers also interact regularly with dog owners, providing updates on their pets’ behavior, health, and progress.

They may also offer advice on dog care or training, based on their observations at the daycare.

In addition, they are responsible for administrative tasks such as managing bookings, handling payments, and maintaining records of dogs’ vaccinations and other health information.

Some Dog Daycare Managers may also assist with marketing and promotional efforts for the facility, and they often play a key role in building and maintaining strong relationships with customers to ensure repeat business.

Overall, the goal of a Dog Daycare Manager is to ensure a safe, fun, and nurturing environment for dogs while their owners are away.

 

Dog Daycare Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Dog Daycare Manager should possess the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, such as:

• Knowledge of animal behavior and handling, particularly with dogs of different breeds and temperaments.
• Strong leadership skills to manage a team of daycare employees efficiently.
• Exceptional customer service skills to interact with pet owners, addressing their concerns and ensuring their satisfaction.
• Ability to multitask and manage time effectively to oversee daily operations of the daycare, including feeding schedules, playtime, and rest periods.
• Excellent communication skills to coordinate with staff, pet owners, and in some cases, veterinary professionals.
• Organizational skills for maintaining records of each dog’s health, behavior, and daily activities.
• Problem-solving skills to handle disputes between dogs, manage aggressive behavior, and resolve any issues that arise in the daycare environment.
• Physical endurance to handle active dogs and withstand longer hours of work.
• First Aid skills, particularly for animals, to handle any emergencies that may occur.
• Patience and empathy for animals, ensuring each dog receives appropriate care and attention.

 

Dog Daycare Manager Experience Requirements

Dog Daycare Manager candidates should ideally have several years of experience working with animals, preferably in a professional setting such as a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or a pet grooming salon.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through part-time roles or internships in animal care-related fields.

These individuals may have gained experience as Veterinary Assistants, Dog Walkers, Pet Sitters or Animal Shelter Volunteers.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience have typically honed their dog handling skills and are well-versed in canine behavior and training techniques.

They may have served in roles such as Dog Trainer, Pet Groomer, or Animal Shelter Coordinator.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field are often sought after for managerial roles.

They usually have demonstrated leadership abilities, can handle administrative duties, and have a comprehensive understanding of animal welfare regulations and standards.

They might have previously held positions such as Kennel Manager, Animal Shelter Manager, or even Veterinary Practice Manager.

Regardless of experience level, all Dog Daycare Manager candidates should ideally possess a deep love for animals, exceptional interpersonal skills for dealing with pet owners, and a keen understanding of dog behavior.

 

Dog Daycare Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Dog Daycare Manager typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent.

A degree in animal science, veterinary studies, or a related field may be beneficial but is not mandatory.

However, a strong understanding of animal behavior, particularly of dogs, is crucial.

Most Dog Daycare Managers gain experience working in animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or pet stores.

Hands-on experience in handling, caring for, and training dogs is invaluable in this role.

Some positions may require the Dog Daycare Manager to have a certification from a recognized pet care or animal behavior organization.

This might include training in animal first aid, CPR, or a dog trainer certification.

As with many roles, a Dog Daycare Manager may benefit from ongoing training and education to stay updated with best practices in dog care and management.

They may also consider specializing in areas like dog nutrition, rehabilitation or training techniques to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Leadership and customer service skills are also necessary as the role involves managing staff and dealing with dog owners.

 

Dog Daycare Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Dog Daycare Manager is around $35,734 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate based on experience, the size and location of the daycare, and the number of dogs being managed.

 

Dog Daycare Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Dog Daycare Manager need?

Dog Daycare Managers need to have excellent organizational and managerial skills to manage the daily operations of the facility.

They should also have good communication and interpersonal skills to interact with staff, clients, and of course, the dogs.

Additionally, they should have a passion for animals, patience, a keen observational ability to detect behavioral changes in dogs, and basic knowledge of dog grooming and healthcare.

 

Do Dog Daycare Managers need a degree?

No, a degree is not necessary, but a high school diploma or equivalent is usually required.

Some employers might prefer candidates with a degree in animal science or a related field.

Relevant experience in animal care or management roles can also be beneficial.

There are also certifications for professional dog daycare managers which can give candidates an edge.

 

What should you look for in a Dog Daycare Manager’s resume?

A Dog Daycare Manager’s resume should highlight their experience in pet care or management.

Look for past roles where they’ve demonstrated responsibility, management, and customer service skills.

Additionally, any training or certifications in animal behavior, pet first aid, or dog training can be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Dog Daycare Manager?

A good Dog Daycare Manager should have a genuine love for animals, especially dogs.

They need to be patient and have a calm demeanor, as handling multiple dogs can be stressful.

An effective manager should also be able to lead a team, handle customer queries and complaints professionally, and ensure the safety and well-being of the dogs in their care.

 

Is it difficult to hire Dog Daycare Managers?

Hiring Dog Daycare Managers can be challenging due to the specific skill set required.

The ideal candidate must have managerial skills, customer service experience, and a deep understanding of dog behavior.

Since this role requires a unique blend of skills, finding the right candidate may require a thorough search and selection process.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into what it truly means to be a dog daycare manager.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about playing fetch.

It’s about shaping the well-being of our four-legged friends, one wagging tail at a time.

With our comprehensive dog daycare manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make your move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job postings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every wagging tail is part of a much larger pack.

Let’s build a better world for our furry friends. Together.

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