Top 29 Kennel Manager Interview Questions and Answers [Updated 2025]
Andre Mendes
•
March 30, 2025
Preparing for a Kennel Manager interview can be daunting, but we're here to help streamline your journey to success. In this blog post, you'll find a curated list of the most common interview questions for the Kennel Manager role, complete with example answers and actionable tips to help you respond confidently and effectively. Dive in to enhance your interview skills and make a lasting impression.
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List of Kennel Manager Interview Questions
Behavioral Interview Questions
Can you describe a time when you had to lead a team of staff in a stressful situation at the kennel?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific stressful situation you faced in the kennel.
- 2
Explain your role and how you mobilized the team.
- 3
Highlight communication strategies you used to reduce stress.
- 4
Mention any protocols or procedures you followed to ensure safety and care.
- 5
Conclude with the outcome and any lessons learned.
Example Answers
During a particularly busy weekend, we had a sudden increase in boarding dogs due to local events. I quickly called a team meeting to delegate tasks based on each person's strengths, ensuring that feeding, walking, and cleaning were managed efficiently. I kept communication open, checking in with everyone regularly to adjust our plan as needed, which helped us handle the situation smoothly. As a result, we maintained high care standards, and our clients were very pleased with our service.
Tell me about a time when you resolved a conflict between two dogs or staff members.
How to Answer
- 1
Start with a specific scenario that highlights the conflict.
- 2
Describe your role and how you assessed the situation.
- 3
Explain the steps you took to resolve the conflict clearly.
- 4
Highlight any positive outcomes or lessons learned.
- 5
Keep it brief and relevant to the position.
Example Answers
In my previous position at a dog daycare, I experienced a situation where two dogs were consistently fighting over toys. I first separated them to prevent injuries and observed their behavior. After assessing, I introduced a structured playtime with multiple toys so they wouldn’t compete over one. This led to a calm environment where both dogs played happily without conflict.
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What was the most challenging problem you faced as a kennel manager, and how did you handle it?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific challenge you faced in the kennel.
- 2
Explain the steps you took to resolve the issue.
- 3
Highlight any skills or qualities you demonstrated.
- 4
Share the outcome and what you learned from the experience.
- 5
Connect the experience to how it prepares you for this role.
Example Answers
One of the biggest challenges I faced was an outbreak of kennel cough. I quickly isolated the affected dogs and informed the staff to enhance our cleaning protocols. We contacted the vet to ensure our remaining dogs were vaccinated and not at risk. As a result, the outbreak was contained, and I learned the importance of swift action and communication in a crisis.
Describe an experience where you dealt with an unhappy pet owner. How did you manage the situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Listen actively to the pet owner's concerns without interrupting.
- 2
Acknowledge the pet owner's feelings and express empathy.
- 3
Offer a clear solution or explanation addressing their concerns.
- 4
Follow up to ensure the owner is satisfied with the resolution.
- 5
Stay calm and professional throughout the interaction.
Example Answers
Once, a pet owner was upset because their dog had not received the expected grooming. I listened to their concerns and empathized with their frustration. I explained the grooming process and assured them I would take care of it immediately, and I followed up with them to ensure they were happy with the result.
Discuss a time when you built a strong relationship with a pet owner. How did it affect your work?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific instance to share.
- 2
Highlight how you communicated effectively with the pet owner.
- 3
Explain the impact of the relationship on pet care quality.
- 4
Mention any follow-up actions that reinforced the bond.
- 5
Emphasize the positive outcomes for both the pet and owner.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I took the time to regularly update a pet owner about her dog's progress during a re-homing process. By sending daily pictures and personalized messages, we built trust and she became more involved in the process. This not only made her comfortable but also allowed me to tailor my care to her dog's preferences, ensuring a smoother transition for the pet.
Describe a situation where you had to adapt to changes in policies or procedures in your kennel.
How to Answer
- 1
Think of a specific policy change that affected your work
- 2
Explain how you learned about the change
- 3
Describe the steps you took to adapt to the new policy
- 4
Highlight the positive outcome of your adaptation
- 5
Emphasize your flexibility and willingness to change
Example Answers
When our kennel updated the vaccination policy, I quickly reviewed the new requirements and informed the staff. I organized a training session to explain the changes, which led to a smoother implementation and ensured all dogs were up to date without any disruptions.
Tell me about your experience in training new staff members in kennel procedures.
How to Answer
- 1
Start with an overview of your training approach.
- 2
Mention specific kennel procedures you emphasize.
- 3
Discuss how you evaluate staff understanding.
- 4
Provide an example of a successful training experience.
- 5
Highlight any improvements in staff performance after training.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I developed a structured training program that covered essential procedures like feeding, cleaning, and animal handling. I emphasized safety and hygiene practices first. For example, I successfully trained a new staff member who later became proficient and independent within two weeks.
Can you give an example of how you effectively communicated with your team to solve an issue?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific issue you faced with your team.
- 2
Describe how you initiated communication regarding the issue.
- 3
Explain the methods you used to ensure everyone understood their roles.
- 4
Illustrate how you collected feedback from the team.
- 5
Conclude with the results of your communication efforts.
Example Answers
In our kennel, we had an outbreak of kennel cough. I called an immediate team meeting to explain the situation. I ensured everyone understood the importance of quarantine measures. We developed a schedule for monitoring the dogs and gathered input on how to improve cleanliness. As a result, we quickly contained the outbreak and communicated effectively with the owners.
Describe a time when you motivated your staff to improve their performance.
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific situation where you led a team.
- 2
Focus on your actions and the strategies you used.
- 3
Highlight the results of your motivation efforts.
- 4
Include how you recognized and rewarded their improvements.
- 5
Make it clear how this experience is relevant to managing a kennel.
Example Answers
In my previous role as a kennel supervisor, we were facing low engagement among the team during our peak season. I organized a team meeting to discuss our challenges and invited everyone to share their ideas. By implementing a weekly recognition program to celebrate individual achievements, our efficiency improved by 20%, and staff morale increased significantly.
Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Reading sample answers isn't enough. Top candidates practice speaking with confidence and clarity. Get real feedback, improve faster, and walk into your next interview ready to stand out.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Technical Interview Questions
What are the key signs of distress in dogs, and how would you address them?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify common signs of distress like barking, whining, or hiding
- 2
Observe body language such as tail position, ear posture, and facial expressions
- 3
Stay calm and approach the distressed dog slowly to avoid further stress
- 4
Use a calming voice and offer treats or toys to ease their anxiety
- 5
Consult a veterinarian for persistent signs of distress or health issues
Example Answers
Key signs of distress in dogs include excessive barking, cowering, or refusing to interact. To address this, I would stay calm, approach slowly, and speak softly to them while offering a favorite toy.
Explain how you would maintain a clean and healthy environment in a kennel.
How to Answer
- 1
Implement a regular cleaning schedule for all areas of the kennel.
- 2
Use pet-safe disinfectants to clean surfaces and bedding.
- 3
Ensure proper waste disposal and regular removal of debris.
- 4
Monitor the animals' health daily to catch issues early.
- 5
Educate staff on hygiene practices and proper animal care.
Example Answers
I would establish a daily cleaning routine that includes sanitizing the kennels with pet-safe products, ensuring all areas are kept tidy, and regularly checking for any waste or debris.
Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Reading sample answers isn't enough. Top candidates practice speaking with confidence and clarity. Get real feedback, improve faster, and walk into your next interview ready to stand out.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
What vaccination protocols do you enforce for the dogs in your care?
How to Answer
- 1
Outline the specific vaccinations you require for dogs upon intake
- 2
Mention regular updates and boosters for vaccinations based on veterinary guidelines
- 3
Explain the importance of vaccination records and how you maintain them
- 4
Discuss how you educate pet owners about vaccination importance
- 5
Include any protocols for new dogs based on their vaccination history
Example Answers
We require all dogs to be up to date on core vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus, before they are admitted to our facility. We also ensure that they receive regular boosters as needed.
How do you manage record-keeping for the pets in your kennel?
How to Answer
- 1
Organize records digitally for easy access.
- 2
Use a software program designed for kennel management.
- 3
Maintain detailed logs for each pet's health and behavior.
- 4
Regularly back up records to prevent data loss.
- 5
Ensure compliance with local regulations regarding record-keeping.
Example Answers
I use kennel management software that allows me to track each pet's vaccinations, feeding schedules, and special requirements in real time, making it easy to access any information I need.
What types of training do you think are important for dogs in a kennel environment?
How to Answer
- 1
Emphasize basic obedience training for all dogs.
- 2
Discuss socialization with other dogs and people.
- 3
Highlight training for specific behaviors, like reducing anxiety.
- 4
Mention the importance of enrichment training to keep dogs engaged.
- 5
Talk about training for safety protocols and emergency responses.
Example Answers
I believe basic obedience training is crucial in a kennel to ensure all dogs respond to commands and behave well in the facility.
Can you explain the difference between canine body language signals indicating happiness and stress?
How to Answer
- 1
Define key signs of happiness in dogs such as wagging tails and relaxed ears
- 2
Identify stress signals like raised hackles or tucked tails
- 3
Provide examples of contexts where these signals occur
- 4
Emphasize body posture and overall demeanor in assessing mood
- 5
Mention the importance of observing behavior over time
Example Answers
A happy dog often has a wagging tail held high, relaxed ears, and a soft facial expression. When dogs are stressed, they might have a stiff body, raised hackles, and a tucked tail. For example, a dog wagging its tail while playing is happy, while a dog with its ears back and body low might be feeling stressed.
What techniques do you use for safely handling and restraining dogs?
How to Answer
- 1
Always assess the dog's behavior and stress level before approaching.
- 2
Use a calm and soothing voice to help ease the dog's anxiety.
- 3
Employ a slip lead or muzzle if necessary to ensure safety for you and the dog.
- 4
Approach from the side rather than head-on to avoid startling the dog.
- 5
Learn to recognize body language signals to anticipate a dog's reactions.
Example Answers
I start by evaluating the dog's body language to gauge its comfort level. If the dog is anxious, I speak softly and give it time to calm down. When necessary, I use a slip lead to safely guide the dog without causing distress.
What grooming skills do you find essential for the role of a kennel manager?
How to Answer
- 1
Highlight knowledge of breed-specific grooming needs
- 2
Emphasize skills in basic grooming techniques like bathing, brushing, and nail clipping
- 3
Discuss experience with grooming tools and equipment
- 4
Mention the importance of monitoring pet health during grooming
- 5
Talk about creating a safe and comfortable environment for pets during grooming
Example Answers
For a kennel manager, it's vital to understand the grooming needs of different breeds, as they can vary significantly. Basic skills like bathing, brushing, and nail clipping are essential. I also make sure to use the right tools for each job and keep an eye out for any skin issues while grooming.
What types of enrichment activities do you provide to the dogs in your kennel?
How to Answer
- 1
Discuss physical activities that promote exercise.
- 2
Mention mental stimulation activities such as puzzle toys.
- 3
Include socialization opportunities with other dogs.
- 4
Explain the importance of varied activities for different breeds.
- 5
Highlight how you assess individual dog preferences for enrichment.
Example Answers
In our kennel, we provide daily walks and play sessions, along with interactive toys that challenge the dogs mentally. We also set up group playtimes for socialization, ensuring dogs can interact safely.
How does your knowledge of different dog breeds influence your management style in the kennel?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify specific traits of different breeds and how they affect behavior.
- 2
Explain how understanding breeds helps in training and care decisions.
- 3
Discuss how knowledge of breeds aids in creating a positive environment.
- 4
Include an example of how you adjusted care based on breed characteristics.
- 5
Emphasize the importance of personalized attention based on breed needs.
Example Answers
My knowledge of dog breeds helps me tailor my management style to meet the unique needs of each breed. For example, I know that high-energy breeds like Border Collies require more exercise and stimulation, so I schedule more playtime for them.
Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Reading sample answers isn't enough. Top candidates practice speaking with confidence and clarity. Get real feedback, improve faster, and walk into your next interview ready to stand out.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Situational Interview Questions
How would you respond if a dog escaped from the kennel?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay calm and don’t panic while assessing the situation
- 2
Immediately inform your team about the escape
- 3
Start searching the surrounding area and call for the dog using its name or treats
- 4
Ensure safety of other dogs and people in the area during the search
- 5
Document the incident and review kennel procedures to prevent future escapes
Example Answers
I would first remain calm and notify my team about the situation. Then I would begin searching the nearby area, calling out the dog’s name and using treats to entice it back. I would also ensure that other dogs are secured during the search to prevent chaos.
If you notice a staff member is not following safety protocols, what steps would you take?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the situation calmly and ensure safety first
- 2
Approach the staff member privately to discuss the observation
- 3
Use specific examples to explain the safety protocol they are missing
- 4
Encourage a two-way conversation to understand their perspective
- 5
Reiterate the importance of safety and offer support for compliance
Example Answers
I would first ensure that any pets or staff are safe. Then, I would speak to the staff member privately and point out the specific safety protocol they overlooked. I would engage them in a dialogue to understand their viewpoint and emphasize why following safety is vital for everyone's well-being.
Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Reading sample answers isn't enough. Top candidates practice speaking with confidence and clarity. Get real feedback, improve faster, and walk into your next interview ready to stand out.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
What would you do if a new dog shows aggression towards other dogs during their first days at the kennel?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the situation calmly and observe the dog's behavior closely.
- 2
Separate the aggressive dog from others to prevent conflicts and stress.
- 3
Introduce the new dog to a controlled environment with careful management.
- 4
Consult the dog's history or owner for insights on its behavior.
- 5
Gradually socialize the dog with others under supervision when appropriate.
Example Answers
If a new dog shows aggression, I would first separate it from the other dogs to ensure safety. Then, I would observe its behavior and consult its history to understand potential triggers. Once I have more information, I would introduce the dog to others gradually in a controlled way.
How would you approach budgeting for kennel supplies and staff salaries?
How to Answer
- 1
Analyze previous budgets and spending trends to understand the financial landscape
- 2
Identify essential supplies and their costs, including food, cleaning supplies, and medical care
- 3
Consider staff requirements for the kennel's operations and their associated salary costs
- 4
Create a contingency fund for unexpected expenses related to supplies or staffing needs
- 5
Regularly review and adjust the budget based on actual spending and any changes in kennel operations
Example Answers
I would start by reviewing the past budgets to see how much we spent on supplies and salaries. Then I'd list the essential supplies we need, like food and cleaning products, and estimate those costs. I'd also look at the staff requirements and their wages to ensure we have covered everything. Finally, I would set aside some funds for unexpected costs, and regularly update the budget as needed.
Imagine a busy day with multiple dogs needing attention at once. How would you prioritize tasks?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the needs of each dog, focusing on health and safety first.
- 2
Prioritize feeding and medication schedules as critical tasks.
- 3
Address dogs showing signs of distress or needing immediate attention.
- 4
Delegate tasks to staff when available to manage workload effectively.
- 5
Create a system for tracking which dogs need attention to stay organized.
Example Answers
First, I would quickly evaluate the dogs to identify any immediate health or distress signals. Then, I'd prioritize feeding and medication for those on a schedule. If I had staff, I'd delegate exercise duties while I handle the urgent needs.
If you discover that a dog has a medical emergency, what steps would you take immediately?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the dog's condition to determine the severity of the emergency.
- 2
Ensure the safety of the dog and yourself; approach cautiously.
- 3
Contact a veterinarian for guidance and inform them of the situation.
- 4
Administer basic first aid if trained, such as controlling bleeding.
- 5
Prepare to transport the dog to the vet if necessary.
Example Answers
First, I would quickly assess the dog's condition to see how serious the emergency is. I would ensure that I approach the dog safely, and then use my phone to call a vet while keeping them informed about what I see. If the dog has an open wound, I would apply pressure to stop any bleeding if I know how.
How would you handle a situation where multiple pets require attention and you're understaffed?
How to Answer
- 1
Quickly assess the needs of each pet to prioritize care.
- 2
Communicate with the team and delegate tasks effectively.
- 3
Use time management skills to ensure all pets get some attention.
- 4
Stay calm and focused to make clear decisions under pressure.
- 5
Consider temporary solutions, like using safe enclosures for pets needing less immediate attention.
Example Answers
In such a situation, I would quickly evaluate which pets need immediate attention based on their health and behavior. Then I'd communicate with any available staff to delegate tasks and ensure everyone knows their priorities, while also keeping calm to manage the situation effectively.
What would be your immediate actions if a kennel facility experienced a power outage during the night?
How to Answer
- 1
Check on the animals immediately for their safety and comfort.
- 2
Use backup power sources like generators if available.
- 3
Ensure proper ventilation for the kennel to keep the animals calm.
- 4
Keep lines of communication open with the staff and emergency services.
- 5
Document the situation and actions taken for future reference.
Example Answers
I would first check on all the animals to ensure they are safe and comfortable, particularly in dark areas. If we have a generator, I would turn it on to keep essential systems running. I'd also ensure the kennel is well-ventilated and that staff are informed of the situation.
If a client requests special treatment for their pet that goes against kennel policy, how do you respond?
How to Answer
- 1
Acknowledge the client's request and show empathy towards their pet.
- 2
Explain the kennel policy clearly and why it exists.
- 3
Offer alternatives that comply with the policy.
- 4
Assure the client that their pet will receive the best care regardless.
- 5
Maintain a professional demeanor while being respectful.
Example Answers
I understand how much you care about your pet and appreciate your request. However, our policy is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all animals here. We can certainly provide some alternatives, such as offering specific amenities within our guidelines that your pet will still enjoy.
Kennel Manager Position Details
Salary Information
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www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Kennel-ManagerThese job boards are ranked by relevance for this position.
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Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates