Shimmy Downs Kelpies | Busselton, South West WA Salary: $82,000–$85,000 per annum + superannuation
About Us
Shimmy Downs Kelpies is a family‑owned and operated working dog training facility and registered Kelpie breeding business located near Busselton in Western Australia's beautiful South West. We specialise in working dog training for all herding breeds, working with a wide variety of dogs and owners, from family pets requiring an appropriate outlet for their natural instincts through to working farm dogs developing practical livestock skills. Our training approach focuses on developing confident, capable working dogs while also educating and supporting their owners. As our business continues to grow, we’re looking for a passionate and capable Working Dog Trainer to join our team.
About the Role
This is a hands‑on, full‑time position involving working dog training, livestock handling, client education and general animal care.
Responsibilities will include:
- Training working dogs using sheep and other livestock.
- Assessing individual dogs and adapting training to suit their age, experience, temperament and ability.
- Conducting private 1:1 training sessions with dogs and their owners.
- Instructing small group training classes.
- Working with dogs participating in our Board & Train program.
- Providing clear, practical guidance and feedback to clients.
- Assisting with the daily care and management of dogs and livestock.
- Maintaining training facilities, equipment and animal areas.
- Assisting with general farm and kennel duties as required.
About You
- Practical experience training and handling working dogs, ideally herding breeds.
- Confidence and experience working around sheep and other livestock.
- A sound understanding of dog behaviour, training principles and animal handling.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work with a variety of clients.
- The ability to work both independently and as part of a small team.
- A willingness to learn, adapt and develop within the Shimmy Downs Kelpies training approach.
- A genuine passion for working dogs, livestock and helping owners develop their dogs' abilities.
- Previous experience delivering training to clients would be highly regarded.
What We Offer
- The opportunity to work with a wide variety of working dogs and clients.
- Hands‑on training and professional development alongside our experienced team.
- A supportive, family‑operated working environment.
- The opportunity to further develop your skills in working dog training and client education.
- A full‑time role in the beautiful South West region of Western Australia.
Location and Relocation
This position is based at our training facility near Busselton, Western Australia. Applicants from outside the region are welcome to apply; however, relocation would be required. Accommodation is not provided as part of the position.
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Working Dog (Herding) Trainer – Full Time employer: J.G CARR & M.S CARR
J.G CARR & M.S CARR offers a hands-on working environment within a family-operated business, providing opportunities for professional growth in the field of working dog training. The company focuses on developing confident and capable working dogs while educating their owners, creating a supportive community for both dogs and clients. With a competitive salary range and a commitment to quality training, it stands out as an attractive employer in the industry.
