How to Become a Dog Handler (Unleash Your Canine Career!)
If you’ve ever envisioned working closely with man’s best friend or wondered about the steps to become a professional dog handler, you’ve landed at the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the SPECIFIC steps you need to take to kickstart your career as a dog handler. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The training and certifications that can aid your journey.
- How to secure a job as a dog handler.
So, whether you’re a dog-lover hoping to make a career out of your passion or an individual looking to shift careers, stay with us.
We’re about to unveil the roadmap to becoming a professional dog handler.
Let’s embark on this journey!
Steps to Become a Dog Handler
Step 1: Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before you start pursuing a career as a dog handler, it’s important to fully understand the role and responsibilities associated with this profession.
A dog handler’s work involves training, caring for, and working with dogs in a variety of settings, including law enforcement, search and rescue operations, therapy, service, show businesses, and more.
Understanding dog behavior and communication is a crucial part of this job.
You will also be responsible for the physical and mental wellbeing of the dogs under your care.
This means providing regular exercise, ensuring a healthy diet, and offering mental stimulation.
You also need to be prepared to work in all weather conditions, and understand that the job can sometimes be physically demanding and emotionally draining, especially when working with dogs who have suffered trauma or are in stressful situations.
If you love dogs and are passionate about working with them, then this could be the right career path for you.
However, you need to ensure that you are willing and able to take on the responsibilities that come with it.
Step 2: Gain Experience with Dogs
After earning your high school diploma, it’s crucial to gain hands-on experience with dogs.
You can start by volunteering at animal shelters, dog rescues, or veterinary clinics.
These opportunities allow you to learn about different breeds, understand their behaviors, and learn how to interact with dogs of varying sizes and temperaments.
You can also consider part-time jobs or internships that involve working with dogs, such as dog walking, pet sitting, or working at a pet store.
This experience will help you develop essential skills like patience, empathy, and quick thinking in unpredictable situations.
You may also want to own a dog if you haven’t already.
Owning a dog will provide you with a wealth of hands-on, day-to-day experience in canine care and management.
Remember, the more experience you have with dogs, the better dog handler you will become.
It’s important to understand that handling dogs is not just about commands and training; it’s also about forming a bond and understanding the unique personality of each dog.
Step 3: Obtain Relevant Education
While it isn’t always necessary to have a degree to become a dog handler, a formal education can make you more competitive in the field.
Pursue a degree in animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field.
These programs offer courses that focus on animal behavior, anatomy, nutrition, and disease, which are beneficial in understanding how to work with dogs.
Depending on your interest or the specific area you wish to work in, you may also consider obtaining certifications from recognized organizations like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) or the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI).
These programs can provide a solid foundation of knowledge and skills in dog training and handling.
Additionally, some community colleges and vocational schools offer programs in animal control or veterinary assistance that may include courses in dog handling.
Also, attending workshops and seminars on specific aspects of dog behavior and training can be very beneficial.
Remember, the more you learn about dogs and their behavior, the more effective you will be as a handler.
Stay informed about the latest research and trends in dog training and behavior to continually improve your abilities.
Step 4: Attend Dog Handling Workshops and Seminars
Attending dog handling workshops and seminars is a critical step in becoming a dog handler.
These events offer hands-on experience and practical knowledge that goes beyond what you might learn in a traditional academic setting.
They are usually organized by experts in the field and offer demonstrations, lectures, and hands-on sessions on various aspects of dog handling.
During these workshops and seminars, you will learn about different dog breeds and their specific needs, training techniques, dog behavior, and health care.
Additionally, you may also learn about more specialized aspects such as competitive obedience, search and rescue, working with service dogs, and more.
Many workshops and seminars also offer the opportunity to network with experienced dog handlers, trainers, and other industry professionals.
This can provide invaluable connections and insights into the industry.
Make sure to participate actively in these sessions, asking questions, and taking notes.
Remember, the more practical experience you gain, the better prepared you’ll be to handle different situations as a professional dog handler.
Always keep an eye out for workshops and seminars in your local area or consider traveling for highly-rated events if necessary.
Even after you’ve started your career, continue attending these events to stay updated with the latest techniques and trends in dog handling.
Step 5: Get Certified
After gaining experience in dog handling, the next step is to pursue certification.
There are several institutions that offer certifications for dog handlers, such as the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).
These certifications can give you credibility and set you apart from other dog handlers.
They require passing a written examination and demonstrating practical skills in dog handling.
Some certifications may require you to have a certain amount of work experience before you are eligible to take the certification exam.
The certification process also involves continuing education.
Dog handlers need to keep updated with the latest theories and practices in dog training and behavior.
This will not only allow you to maintain your certification, but also keep your skills sharp and up-to-date.
Getting certified can provide a significant boost to your career, allowing you to attract more clients or work in more specialized roles such as service dog training or animal behavior consulting.
Step 6: Volunteer or Work at Kennels or Shelters
This step is particularly important for gaining hands-on experience with dogs of various breeds and temperaments.
Working or volunteering at kennels or shelters gives you the opportunity to observe canine behavior, learn about their care needs, and practice handling techniques.
While at the kennel or shelter, make sure to interact with as many dogs as possible and pay attention to their responses.
This will enhance your understanding of dog behavior and help you become more comfortable with different breeds.
You might also get a chance to observe how professional handlers work with dogs, which can provide invaluable insights.
In addition to the practical skills you’ll gain, this experience also demonstrates your commitment and passion for working with dogs.
This can be beneficial when applying for professional dog handling roles or training programs in the future.
Remember, even if your role is primarily cleaning kennels or feeding the animals, every interaction is an opportunity to learn more about canine behavior and handling techniques.
Step 7: Develop Specialized Skills
As a dog handler, having specialized skills can greatly enhance your career prospects.
These skills can vary depending on the specific role you wish to pursue.
For example, if you want to become a police dog handler, you may want to gain experience in law enforcement.
On the other hand, if you wish to work in a show or competition setting, it would be beneficial to learn about specific dog breeds and their unique characteristics, as well as training techniques for teaching complex commands and tricks.
Spend time learning about canine behavior and psychology.
Understanding the way dogs think and behave can be incredibly useful when it comes to training and handling them.
Courses in animal behavior, in particular canine behavior, are often available at local community colleges or online.
Another important skill for a dog handler is first aid.
Dogs, like humans, can get injured or sick, so having the knowledge to deal with these situations is crucial.
Consider taking a pet first aid course or even getting a certification.
Developing patience is also crucial.
Training and handling dogs can be a lengthy process and may require a great deal of patience.
It’s important to remember that each dog is unique and may not always respond to commands or behave as expected.
Also, consider attending seminars and workshops to learn from experienced dog handlers and trainers.
This can provide you with practical knowledge and experience, as well as opportunities to network with others in the field.
Remember, specialization should be based on your interests and the direction you want your career to take.
Continue to learn and develop your skills over time, as ongoing education is a key to success in the field of dog handling.
Step 8: Network Within the Industry
Networking is crucial in the dog handling industry.
Connect with local dog handlers, trainers, breeders, and kennel club members.
Attend local dog shows, competitions, and events to meet individuals who are already established in the field.
These individuals can provide valuable advice and insight, as well as potential job leads.
Consider joining professional organizations such as the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI) or the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP).
These organizations provide opportunities for continuing education, professional development, and networking with other professionals.
Online networking is also important.
Social media platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook groups can be used to connect with professionals and enthusiasts in the field.
Engaging in online discussions, forums, and webinars related to dog handling can also increase your knowledge and visibility in the industry.
Remember, networking is not just about taking, but also about giving.
Share your own knowledge and experiences, offer assistance to others when you can, and be a positive and active participant in the community.
This will not only help you build relationships but also enhance your reputation in the industry.
Step 9: Prepare a Professional Resume and Cover Letter
Creating a professional resume and cover letter is a crucial step for your career as a Dog Handler.
Your resume should clearly list all relevant experience and qualifications, including any formal education, training programs or workshops you’ve attended, and any hands-on experience you’ve acquired.
Be specific about the types of dogs you’ve worked with, the settings you’ve worked in (like shelters, dog training centers, or private homes), and the responsibilities you’ve had in each role.
Include any special skills or certifications you hold, such as canine first aid or dog behavior certification.
Highlight your ability to handle dogs of various breeds, sizes, and temperaments, and your understanding of dog psychology and behavior.
Mention any experience with dog training methods and equipment, and any knowledge of dog health and grooming.
Your cover letter should complement your resume by providing context and elaborating on the experiences and skills that make you an excellent candidate for the position.
Try to convey your passion for working with dogs and your commitment to their welfare.
Don’t forget to specify the type of dog handler position you are seeking, such as police dog handler, service dog handler, or competition dog handler.
Remember, both your resume and cover letter should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for.
Ensure they are free of errors and present you as a dedicated, qualified professional.
Step 10: Apply for Dog Handler Positions
Once you have obtained the necessary education, experience, and certifications, you are ready to begin applying for dog handler positions.
These roles can be found in various industries such as law enforcement, search and rescue, security, professional dog training, and even entertainment industries.
Start by researching potential employers.
You might want to consider federal and local government agencies, private security firms, or dog training facilities.
Use job search websites, industry-specific job boards, and networking to find available positions.
When preparing your resume, highlight all of your relevant experience, including any volunteer work you have done with dogs, your training and certifications, and any special skills you have, such as specialized dog training techniques or experience handling specific breeds.
Prepare yourself for the interview process by anticipating questions about your experience, your handling techniques, and your ability to work with dogs of all temperaments and behaviors.
Some employers might also require a practical test where you demonstrate your dog handling skills.
Remember, persistence is key.
The field of dog handling can be competitive, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t land your dream job right away.
Keep building your experience and networking with professionals in the field, and your persistence will pay off.
Dog Handler Roles and Responsibilities
Dog Handlers are professionals who work with dogs in a variety of fields, including law enforcement, search and rescue, and animal training.
They are responsible for training, caring for, and handling dogs in various situations.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Dog Training
- Train dogs for specific tasks, such as obedience, search and rescue, or detecting illegal substances.
- Utilize positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desired behavior.
- Teach dogs to respond to specific commands.
Dog Care
- Ensure the health and welfare of the dog, including regular exercise, diet, and medical care.
- Groom dogs to maintain a clean and healthy coat.
- Identify signs of illness or distress in dogs and seek veterinary care when necessary.
Handling
- Control and manage the dog in various situations and environments.
- Ensure the safety and comfort of the dog and the public.
- Be aware of and respond to the dog’s signals and needs.
Work with Other Professionals
- Collaborate with other professionals, such as vets, law enforcement officials, or search and rescue teams.
- Communicate effectively about the dog’s abilities, behavior, and needs.
Record Keeping
- Document training progress, health records, and other relevant information about the dog.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records.
Public Interaction
- Interact with the public in a professional and informative manner.
- Teach others about responsible dog ownership and handling.
Continuous Learning
- Stay updated on new training techniques, behavioral science, and other relevant areas.
- Attend workshops, seminars, and training programs for professional development.
Emergency Response
- Be prepared to respond to emergencies involving the dog or its work.
- Know and follow procedures for handling emergencies.
Compliance
- Comply with local, state, and federal laws regarding animal handling and care.
- Understand and follow ethical guidelines for working with dogs.
Equipment Maintenance
- Maintain and care for equipment used in dog handling, such as leashes, harnesses, and training tools.
What Does a Dog Handler Do?
Dog Handlers typically work for private companies, law enforcement agencies, military, or animal care services, and some also operate as self-employed individuals.
They are responsible for training dogs for various purposes such as companionship, security, detection, or assistance to differently-abled individuals.
This training often involves basic obedience, problem-solving, and specialized skills depending on the dog’s role.
Additionally, Dog Handlers are also involved in caring for the physical and emotional well-being of the dogs.
This includes feeding them, maintaining their hygiene, providing medical attention when needed, and ensuring they have adequate exercise and social interaction.
In the case of working dogs, handlers often work closely with their dogs in various operations, such as search and rescue, detection of substances, or providing therapy and support.
Handlers must build strong relationships with their dogs based on trust and mutual respect.
Dog Handlers also often interact with the public, whether it’s through educational programs or in their daily work, so they must be able to communicate effectively about their dog’s role and capabilities.
In all cases, the Dog Handler is responsible for ensuring the safety of both the dog and the people they interact with.
Essential Dog Handler Skills
- Animal Empathy: A dog handler must have a deep love for animals, understanding their behaviors, needs and be able to form a bond with them.
- Communication: Ability to communicate effectively with the dog is essential. This includes understanding dog behavior, cues and responses.
- Training: Proficiency in training dogs using various techniques and methods is a must. This includes basic obedience, behavioral training, and specialized training for specific tasks.
- Physical Fitness: Handling dogs, especially large breeds, requires a good level of physical fitness and stamina. The handler should be able to control and manage the dog, and also engage in physical activities like walking or running with the dog.
- Problem-solving: Dog handlers often deal with behavioral issues and training challenges. The ability to identify these problems and develop effective solutions is crucial.
- Patience: Training and handling dogs can often be a long, slow process requiring a lot of repetition. Patience is vital to handle these situations effectively without causing stress to the dog.
- First Aid: Knowledge of canine first aid and emergency procedures is important. The handler should be able to identify health issues and respond appropriately.
- Nutrition Knowledge: Understanding a dog’s dietary needs and ensuring they receive balanced nutrition is a crucial skill for a dog handler.
- Breed Knowledge: Familiarity with different breeds and their specific needs, behaviors, and common health issues is a must.
- Professionalism: Dog handlers often work in professional settings such as police departments, security agencies, or dog shows. Professionalism, including respect for protocols, punctuality, and effective communication with human team members, is essential.
- Teamwork: Dog handlers often work as part of a team, particularly in security or law enforcement settings. They must be able to collaborate effectively with both dogs and humans.
- Attention to Detail: Ability to notice changes in a dog’s behavior, health, or performance is important. Early detection of issues can lead to quicker resolution and better welfare for the dog.
Dog Handler Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Junior Dog Handler
Your journey begins as a Junior Dog Handler.
At this stage, you are learning about different breeds, their behaviors and basic training methods.
Your responsibilities may include assisting in obedience classes, walking dogs, and maintaining kennels.
Tips for success in this role include:
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated about various dog breeds and their behaviors.
- Ask For Guidance: Approach experienced handlers for advice and tips.
- Active Participation: Show enthusiasm in learning and handling dogs of various breeds.
The Ascent: Dog Handler
With experience and gained confidence, you progress to the role of a Dog Handler.
Here, you are responsible for training dogs, ensuring their health and safety, and participating in dog shows.
Here’s how to succeed in this stage:
- Training Skills: Improve your dog training skills by working with a variety of breeds and temperaments.
- Teamwork: Work effectively with dog owners, vets, and other stakeholders.
- Care Quality: Focus on providing quality care and maintaining the health of the dogs you handle.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Dog Handler
The next step on this career ladder is Senior Dog Handler.
At this stage, you’re recognized for your expertise and become a point of reference within your team.
You may take on mentoring roles, guide training techniques, and lead dogs to win competitions.
To excel as a Senior Dog Handler:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help novice handlers grow.
- Strategic Thinking: Think beyond training and consider overall dog development and wellness.
- Leadership: Inspire others with your work ethic and effective dog handling abilities.
Beyond the Horizon: Dog Training Supervisor and Beyond
As your career progresses, you may choose to specialize in a particular area, such as becoming a Dog Training Supervisor, Kennel Manager, or even a Dog Show Judge.
Each of these roles involves greater responsibilities, leadership, and strategic decision-making.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Leadership Skills: Drive initiatives and shape the direction of your kennel or training center.
- Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team effectively.
- Innovation: Continue to innovate and stay at the forefront of dog training methods and trends.
Pinnacle of Success: Kennel Owner or Dog Training Director
The highest rungs in this career ladder could be a Kennel Owner or Dog Training Director.
Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the overall strategy of the organization, making critical decisions, and managing larger teams of handlers.
Dog Handler Salary
Entry-Level Dog Handler
- Median Salary: $20,000 – $30,000 per year
- Entry-level dog handlers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may have certifications in animal care or related fields. Their duties are mainly to assist in the basic care and training of dogs.
Mid-Level Dog Handler
- Median Salary: $30,000 – $40,000 per year
- Mid-level handlers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex responsibilities such as implementing advanced training techniques and attending dog shows or competitions.
Senior Dog Handler
- Median Salary: $40,000 – $50,000 per year
- Senior handlers possess 5+ years of experience and are often responsible for leading training sessions, providing specialized care for specific breeds, and mentoring junior handlers.
Head Dog Handler / Kennel Manager
- Median Salary: $50,000 – $60,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve management of other dog handlers, overseeing kennel operations, and decision-making on dog training and care protocols.
K9 Trainer / Dog Training Director
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep understanding of dog behavior and training techniques, and often involve setting training strategies for a kennel, agency, or training center.
Dog Handler Work Environment
Dog handlers primarily work in environments where dogs are the main focus.
These include animal shelters, veterinary clinics, dog training centers, dog kennels, and even police or military units.
Some handlers are also self-employed and train or care for dogs in the comfort of the dog’s home.
Dog handlers generally work regular full-time hours, but the job often includes weekends, evenings, and holidays.
The job may also demand being on-call for emergencies, especially for those working with police or search and rescue dogs.
The work can be physically demanding and sometimes risky, as it involves dealing with dogs of different breeds, sizes, and temperaments.
However, for those with a passion for animals, particularly dogs, it can be a rewarding career.
With experience and building a good reputation, a dog handler may choose to start their own dog training or handling business.
FAQs About Becoming a Dog Handler
What qualifications do I need to become a dog handler?
To become a dog handler, you need a solid understanding of canine behavior and excellent dog-handling skills.
These can be gained through experience, such as owning dogs or working in a kennel, and through courses in animal behavior or dog training.
There are no specific educational requirements for becoming a dog handler, but a high school diploma is often required.
Some roles, such as police or military dog handler, may have additional requirements.
How long does it take to become a dog handler?
The time it takes to become a dog handler can vary greatly depending on the specific role and your previous experience with dogs.
If you already have experience with dogs, you might be able to start working as a dog handler after just a few months of training.
More specialized roles, like a police or service dog handler, might require several years of training and experience.
Can I become a dog handler without any formal training?
Yes, it is possible to become a dog handler without formal training.
Experience handling dogs, either your own or others, can be a great starting point.
However, formal training in dog handling or animal behavior can be very beneficial and may open up more opportunities.
Some roles, such as service dog trainer or police dog handler, will require more specialized training.
Is being a dog handler a stressful job?
Being a dog handler can be stressful at times, especially when dealing with aggressive or untrained dogs.
However, it can also be very rewarding, especially when you see the progress a dog makes under your guidance.
The stress level can vary greatly depending on the specific role and the types of dogs you are working with.
What are the prospects for dog handlers in the next decade?
The job prospects for dog handlers over the next decade look promising.
As people continue to recognize the importance of properly trained dogs in various fields, such as service, therapy, and law enforcement, demand for skilled dog handlers is expected to grow.
Additionally, the pet industry continues to grow, leading to increased opportunities for dog handlers in roles such as dog training and dog walking.
Conclusion
There you have it!
Setting out on the road to become a dog handler may not be a walk in the park, but it’s indubitably fulfilling.
Equipped with the right skills, training, and perseverance, you’re on the brink of making a significant difference in the world of canines.
Remember, the journey might be demanding, but the rewards are boundless. Your expertise could pave the way to the next revolutionary method in dog training or handling that changes the way we understand, interact and care for our furry friends.
So, take that first leap. Immerse yourself in knowledge. Connect with professionals. And most importantly, never stop training.
Because the world is waiting for what you can achieve with our four-legged friends.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on beginning or progressing your career in dog handling, don’t hesitate to explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
The Art of Easy Earning: Jobs That Will Change Your Mind About Work!
Future-Proofed Careers: Jobs That Survive Economic Hardships
Think Outside the Cubicle: The Strangest Jobs in the World
