Interested in a dog care career?
Learn from the Best in the Business
At TailWag Resorts, we don’t just care for dogs—we shape the next generation of dog care professionals. Our two signature certification programs offer hands-on training, expert mentorship, and real-world experience in a high-end, professional environment. Whether you're a high school student exploring a first job in animal care through our TailWag Dog Runners Program, or a young adult ready to take the lead in our TailWag Dog Handlers Certification, you'll gain the skills, confidence, and qualifications to thrive in the dog care industry. Join us and turn your passion for dogs into a career.
TailWag Handlers Program
$2,25o
Ask us about payment plans, discounts,
and tuition rebate opportunities.
Your career with dogs starts here!
Learn to confidently lead dog play groups, read dog body language, manage safety, and gain the skills needed to thrive in dog daycares, boarding resorts, and enrichment programs.
✔ 8-week hands-on course
✔ 8-week internship
✔ TailWag Certification included
✔ Ages 18–25
TailWag Runners Program
$580
Ask us about payment plans, discounts,
and tuition rebate opportunities.
Turn your love for dogs into real experience!
Get hands-on experience in a real dog resort while learning the basics of teamwork, dog care, and professional responsibility.
✔ 4-week entry-level program
✔ Hands-on training & certification
✔ Ideal for high school juniors/seniors
✔ Ages 16–18
TailWag Handlers Certification Program
Your Career with Dogs Starts Here
Turn Your Passion Into a Profession
Are you 18–25 and love working with dogs? This hands-on program is your gateway into the growing dog care industry. In just 16 weeks, you’ll build real-world skills, earn a professional certification, and open the door to paid job opportunities.
1.
What you'll learn
Practical Skills You’ll Use Every Day:
-
Understanding dog behavior and dog to dog communication
-
Safe leash handling skills and group play supervision
-
Facility operations and cleanliness protocols
-
Customer service, professionalism, and teamwork
-
Leadership and confidence in real-world settings
2.
Program Overview
Details at a glance:
-
Program Length: 16 weeks (8 weeks course + 8 weeks internship)
-
Course Schedule: 2 in-person sessions/week (4 hours each)
-
Internship Schedule: 2 shifts per week at TailWag Resorts (6 hour shift)
-
Location: TailWag Resorts, Escondido, CA
-
Tuition: $2,250 with a payment plan available (or $1,900 if paid upfront)
-
Participants can enter a special competition and win up to $500 in tuition rebates. Ask us for details. Terms and conditions apply.
-
-
Certification: TailWag Certified Dog Handler
Top graduates will be invited to interview for paid positions on our team (subject to position availability)
3.
Who Should Apply
This Program Is For You If:
-
You’re 18–25 and want hands-on experience in a real work setting
-
You love dogs and want a fulfilling job in animal care
-
You’re not sure if college is for you—but you’re ready to work
-
You want to build responsibility, independence, and confidence
-
You’re a parent looking for a meaningful program for your young adult
4.
Why TailWag?
Real Experience. Real Mentorship. Real Results.
TailWag Resorts is a leader in high-quality dog care and professional dog handler training.
At TailWag, we don’t just care for dogs—we invest in people. You’ll train in a supportive, professional environment where learning and growth come first.
5.
How to Get Started
Ready to Apply? Here’s What’s Next:
Click “Apply Now” below to fill out our quick interest form.
Want to know more? here are a few options to get more information:
-
Click here to request a call with our team
-
Attend one of our free info sessions at TailWag Resorts:
-
Saturday, May 10 at 12:00 PM [RSVP for May 10]
-
Saturday, May 17 at 5:00 PM [RSVP for May 17]
-
Saturday May 21 at 7:00 PM [RSVP for May 21]
TailWag Runners Certification Program
Turn your love for dogs into real experience
1.
Build confidence, develop teamwork skills, and hands-on experience in our 4-week entry-level program for teens who love dogs.
Why This Program Works
The TailWag Runners Program gives high school juniors and seniors a firsthand look into working at a real dog resort. In just 4 weeks, students develop strong work habits, foundational dog care skills, and lasting confidence — with the chance to earn a spot on our team after graduation.
2.
What You’ll Learn
-
How to show up prepared, on time, and ready to take initiative
-
How to read dogs’ body language and behavioral cues
-
How dogs communicate with each other
-
How to clean, reset play zones, and prep for the day
-
How to assist staff safely and effectively
3.
What You’ll Gain
-
TailWag Runners Certificate
-
Stronger college and job applications
-
Confidence and professionalism
-
Top three graduates will be offered a part-time job at TailWag Resorts (subject to position availability)
4.
Is This for You?
-
Ages 16–18 (high school juniors & seniors)
-
No prior experience required
-
Passionate about animals
-
Ready to learn, grow, and show up professionally
-
Able to reliably commute to Escondido, CA
5.
6.
Tuition & Payment Options
Full Tuition: $580
Payment Plan: 2 x $290 or 3 x $200
💳 Credit/Debit (3% fee) or 🏦 ACH/Zelle (no fee)
Sibling enrolled in Handler Program? Ask us about bundle discounts.
Info Session RSVP
Come meet us in person!
📍 TailWag Resorts – Escondido, CA
-
Saturday, May 10 at 12:00 PM [RSVP for May 10]
-
Saturday, May 17 at 5:00 PM [RSVP for May 17]
-
Saturday May 21 at 7:00 PM [RSVP for May 21]
👉 Email us to RSVP: info@tailwagresorts.com
7.
Why TailWag Resorts?
TailWag Resorts is San Diego’s leading dog care resorts — known for personalized service, enrichment-based play, and top-tier safety. We proudly mentor the next generation of dog care professionals through hands-on training and real-world guidance.
