Professional Dog Show Handler Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of canine competition, the attention on professional dog show handlers has never been more focused.

Standards are set high and with each show, the demand for skilled professionals who can groom, showcase, and champion our canine companions increases.

But let’s dig a little deeper: What’s truly expected from a professional dog show handler?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of professional dog handling,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable professional dog show handler job description template, created for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Professional Dog Show Handler Duties and Responsibilities

Professional Dog Show Handlers are responsible for the presentation and care of dogs in professional dog shows.

They are known for their expert handling skills, deep knowledge of dog breeds, and exceptional ability to maintain dogs in their best physical and mental condition for shows.

Duties and responsibilities include:

• Preparing dogs for dog shows, which includes grooming, training, and conditioning
• Presenting dogs in the show ring to highlight their best features and potential in accordance with the standards of the breed
• Maintaining a deep knowledge of breed standards, show rules and regulations
• Working closely with dog owners and breeders to understand the unique needs and characteristics of each dog
• Managing dogs’ diet and exercise routines to ensure their health and peak physical condition
• Providing basic veterinary care and identifying signs of illness or discomfort in dogs
• Developing and maintaining positive relationships with judges and other participants in the dog show community
• Ensuring all pets under their care are safe and comfortable during transportation to and from shows
• Documenting and reporting the performance and behavior of dogs during shows to their owners
• Keeping up-to-date with changes in breed standards and show regulations

 

Professional Dog Show Handler Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Professional Dog Show Handler to present dogs in breed and show competitions.

The job responsibilities include grooming, exercising, and training dogs for shows, and presenting them in a manner that accentuates their best characteristics in line with breed standards.

Our ideal candidate is knowledgeable about different dog breeds, has experience in handling dogs in a professional setting, and possesses excellent showmanship skills.

Ultimately, the role of a Professional Dog Show Handler is to ensure that the dogs they handle are presented in the best possible manner during competitions, ensuring the highest standards of care and professionalism at all times.

 

Responsibilities

• Prepare dogs for competition by grooming, exercising and training them
• Present dogs in shows in a manner that accentuates their breed characteristics
• Assess the behavior and physical condition of dogs, and report any concerns to owners
• Maintain a clean and healthy environment for dogs
• Build strong relationships with dogs to ensure their comfort and trust
• Keep accurate records of dog’s performance, diet, and health
• Adhere to all competition rules and guidelines
• Communicate with dog owners and judges professionally and respectfully

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Professional Dog Show Handler
• Deep understanding of different dog breeds and their specific needs
• Experience in dog grooming and training
• Excellent handling and showmanship skills
• Patience and genuine love for dogs
• Physical stamina and the ability to handle dogs of varying sizes and temperaments
• High school diploma or equivalent; relevant certifications (e.g. Certified Professional Dog Trainer) are a plus

 

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package
• Opportunities to work with a variety of dog breeds and participate in prestigious competitions
• Travel opportunities
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Professional Dog Show Handler
• Work Environment: Dog shows, kennels, and training facilities. This role requires frequent travel to various locations for competitions and events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Kennel Manager or Dog Show Organizer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• 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 Professional Dog Show Handler Do?

A Professional Dog Show Handler is a professional who specializes in presenting dogs in various competitive dog shows.

They are responsible for the training and preparation of dogs to participate in competitions.

This includes physical conditioning, obedience training, and teaching specific skills required in different types of dog shows such as agility, herding, or tracking.

In addition to training, a Professional Dog Show Handler must groom the dog to meet breed standards.

This may include bathing, brushing, trimming, and other cosmetic procedures to enhance the dog’s appearance.

At the dog shows, they present the dogs to judges and perform various activities to showcase the dog’s physical attributes and capabilities.

Their main goal is to highlight the dog’s best qualities in line with the breed standard.

In many cases, a Professional Dog Show Handler also acts as a liaison between the dog’s owner and the judges, answering questions about the dog’s breed, training, and behavior.

They must also ensure the dog’s health and welfare before, during, and after the shows, providing proper nutrition, exercise, and care for the animals under their supervision.

 

Professional Dog Show Handler Qualifications and Skills

A professional dog show handler should have the skills and qualifications that align with the specific demands of the role, including:

• Animal handling skills to manage different breeds and sizes of dogs with ease and confidence.
• Knowledge of different dog breeds and their specific characteristics, standards and behaviour patterns to better present each dog in its best light.
• Physical stamina and agility to run, bend, and move swiftly with dogs during the show, often for extended periods of time.
• Interpersonal skills to build rapport with dogs and communicate effectively with owners, breeders, judges, and other show officials.
• Patience and composure to deal with unpredictable situations or behavior from dogs during a show.
• Training skills to prepare dogs for shows, which may include teaching them to walk on a leash, stand for examination, and respond to basic commands.
• Attention to detail to ensure the dogs are groomed and presented according to breed standards.
• Professionalism and sportsmanship to represent the owner and the dog in a positive light, regardless of the show outcome.

 

Professional Dog Show Handler Experience Requirements

Professional Dog Show Handlers generally begin their careers by working as an assistant to an experienced handler.

This role provides them with hands-on experience and a practical understanding of handling different dog breeds, grooming, training, and nurturing dogs for competitive dog shows.

It is also important for handlers to have experience in the realm of dog training, as they will need to coach dogs to display their best behaviors and physical traits during shows.

Training can vary based on dog breeds and show requirements, so a comprehensive understanding and hands-on experience with various breeds is valuable.

Those aspiring to become Professional Dog Show Handlers often have a background in veterinary care or animal behavioral studies.

Such experiences provide a deeper understanding of dogs’ health, behavior, and overall well-being, which can be crucial for a dog’s performance in a show.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience in handling dogs at shows, grooming, or training them are usually considered experienced handlers.

They have developed the necessary skills to handle dogs of different breeds and temperaments, and they are also well-versed with the rules and regulations of various dog shows.

Those with more than 5 years of experience might have gained a reputation within the circuit and could be handling dogs at national or international level shows.

These handlers might also be mentoring or training assistants, thereby displaying their leadership skills and expertise in the field.

 

Professional Dog Show Handler Education and Training Requirements

Professional Dog Show Handlers usually have a high school diploma or equivalent education.

There are no specific degree requirements for this role, however, a degree in animal science or a related field may be beneficial.

The most significant training for a dog show handler is hands-on experience.

This often begins with an apprenticeship or mentorship under an experienced handler.

There are also several professional organizations, like the Professional Handler’s Association (PHA) and the American Kennel Club (AKC), that offer workshops, seminars and courses on different aspects of dog handling, which can be valuable for aspiring handlers.

Knowledge of different breeds and their specific behaviors, grooming needs, and standards is crucial.

This can be acquired through self-study, practical experience, and participating in dog shows.

While not necessarily a requirement, certification programs offered by associations like the National Association of Professional Pet Handlers can add credibility and attest to the handler’s skill and knowledge.

Physical fitness is also essential in this role as handlers need to move quickly and have the stamina to control various dog breeds.

Continuing education is important in this field to stay current with changing breed standards and show rules.

Finally, soft skills such as patience, empathy, and excellent communication skills can be beneficial in this role.

 

Professional Dog Show Handler Salary Expectations

A Professional Dog Show Handler can expect to earn an average wage of approximately $28,000 (USD) per year.

However, this rate can significantly increase depending on the handler’s experience, location, and the prestige of the shows in which they participate.

Some seasoned handlers working with high-demand breeds at top-tier shows can earn up to $200,000 annually.

But such cases are more exceptional than typical.

 

Professional Dog Show Handler Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Professional Dog Show Handler need?

A Professional Dog Show Handler should have strong physical stamina for walking and running with dogs of different sizes and breeds.

They must also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to understand and meet the needs of the dog owners they are representing.

Knowledge of different dog breeds and their specific needs is crucial, as well as the ability to train and handle dogs with varying temperaments.

 

Do Professional Dog Show Handlers need any specific qualifications?

While a specific degree is not needed to become a Professional Dog Show Handler, most handlers have extensive experience working with dogs in various capacities.

This could include working as a dog trainer, at a kennel, or at a veterinarian’s office.

Some professional handlers also hold certifications from recognized dog handling or training organizations.

 

What should you look for in a Professional Dog Show Handler’s resume?

A Professional Dog Show Handler’s resume should highlight their experience with dogs.

They should provide details about the types of dogs they have handled, the specific shows they have participated in, and any awards or recognition they or the dogs they handled have received.

Training or certifications in dog behavior, training, or care should also be included.

 

What qualities make a good Professional Dog Show Handler?

A good Professional Dog Show Handler has a deep love and understanding of dogs.

They should have patience, as training and preparation for dog shows can be a slow and meticulous process.

They must also be adaptable, able to quickly change tactics or strategies based on a dog’s behavior or the circumstances of a show.

Good handlers are also consistent, ensuring they maintain the same handling methods to create a comfortable and predictable environment for the dogs they handle.

 

What are the daily duties of a Professional Dog Show Handler?

A Professional Dog Show Handler’s daily duties vary but may include training sessions with the dogs they handle, grooming and preparing dogs for shows, maintaining training records, and communicating with dog owners.

They may also spend time researching and staying up-to-date on breed standards and show regulations.

During show seasons, they will travel extensively, present dogs at shows, and manage all aspects of the dog’s care during these trips.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the intricate details of being a professional dog show handler.

Surprised?

It’s not just about walking a dog.

It’s about showcasing the canine’s utmost potential, one strut at a time.

With our quintessential professional dog show handler job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously crafted job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every dog show display contributes to the grand spectacle.

Let’s create that spectacle. Together.