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Detection Dog Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

The Professional Dog Trainer is a position within the Resort and reports directly to the General ... You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

Dog Trainer

Cedar Park, TX · On-site

$14.81/hr

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

Dog Trainer

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$14.81/hr

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

Dog Handler

Saint George, UT · On-site

$16/hr

Detect and discourage overly excited, aggressive, or inappropriate behavior * Ensure dogs are safe when being exercised and socialized during playtime * Report issues or bad behavior to manager ...

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

The Professional Dog Trainer is a position within the Resort and reports directly to the General ... You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ...

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Detection Dog information

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$8

$27

$82

How much do detection dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for detection dog in the United States is $27.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be a security dog handler?

To become a detection dog handler, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, experience with dog training or handling, and knowledge of canine behavior. Certification in canine detection or related fields and physical fitness are also important for the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Detection Dog position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Detection Dog, a keen sense of smell, strong focus, and high trainability are essential, typically demonstrated through specialized training and certification for scent detection. Most detection dogs undergo rigorous training using specific odor recognition tools and may require certification from organizations like the National Narcotic Detector Dog Association or similar bodies. A calm temperament, adaptability, and strong working relationship with their handler are crucial soft skills for this role. These qualifications ensure that detection dogs can reliably and safely perform their duties in diverse and dynamic environments.

How to become a detector dog handler?

To become a detection dog handler, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, experience working with dogs, and training in animal behavior or law enforcement. Many handlers complete specialized certification programs or training courses in detection work, and physical fitness is often required due to the demands of the job.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Detection Dog and their handler?

A Detection Dog and their handler typically start each day with routine training exercises to maintain scent detection accuracy and reinforce obedience commands. On duty, teams may be assigned to search luggage, vehicles, buildings, or outdoor areas for substances such as drugs, explosives, or other contraband, depending on their specialization. The work often involves varied environments, from airports to warehouses or public events, requiring adaptability and teamwork. Handlers closely monitor their dog's behavior and cues, ensuring safety and accuracy throughout each assignment. Regular care, socialization, and downtime are also important parts of the daily routine for a Detection Dog.

What is a Detection Dog job?

A Detection Dog is a specially trained canine that uses its keen sense of smell to locate specific substances, such as drugs, explosives, or missing persons. These dogs work with law enforcement, military, customs, and search-and-rescue teams to detect illegal or dangerous items. Their training focuses on odor recognition, obedience, and task-specific behaviors to ensure accuracy. Detection dogs play a crucial role in public safety and security efforts worldwide.

How to get into detection dog work?

To become a detection dog handler, individuals typically need a background in dog training, experience working with dogs, and knowledge of scent detection techniques. Certification programs and specialized training courses are available to develop skills in odor recognition and handler safety. Gaining experience through volunteering or working with law enforcement, search and rescue, or security organizations can also help entry into the field.

What is the highest paid job working with dogs?

Detection dog handlers, especially those working in law enforcement, military, or security sectors, tend to be among the highest-paid jobs involving dogs. These roles often require specialized training, certifications, and experience, with salaries varying based on location, employer, and level of expertise.
More about Detection Dog jobs
What cities are hiring for Detection Dog jobs? Cities with the most Detection Dog job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Detection Dog jobs? The most popular types of Detection Dog jobs are:
What states have the most Detection Dog jobs? States with the most job openings for Detection Dog jobs include:
Infographic showing various Detection Dog job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,248 per year, or $27 per hour.
Dog Trainer

$14.81/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Do you have a passion for training dogs, inspiring owners, and making a difference in the pet community? We are seeking a full time, multi-site Dog Trainer to join our team!

The Professional Dog Trainer is a position within the Resort and reports directly to the General Manager. We believe in the mission of "Pet Lovers Delighting Pet Lovers" and we demonstrate this through being Playful, Passionate, Personal and Professional. A successful candidate for this position will be someone who not only embraces this culture, but is a team player, self-motivated, takes direction well, has excellent communication skills, and great attention to detail. This is a service-related industry and you should not only be skilled at customer service, but passionate about helping people. Most importantly, the candidate should have experience with dogs, dog behavior, and knowledge of reward-based training.

A Day In The Life:

This role is so much fun! Daily, you'll have the opportunity to train new dogs -- from puppy age to dogs who need some more reminders. You'll ask their parents about goals and what they want to solve. You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the mysteries of how to train them best. Eventually, you'll use the resources we've already built to craft a plan for how to train that dog and solve their parent's concerns. Don't forget -- sometimes you'll have to train the parents too. You'll not only communicate with the dog(s), but also have a lot of interaction with mom and dad. You'll document what you are seeing and offer tips and tricks to solve. And let's not forget -- you're probably going to scoop some poop, clean up some pee, go home with some fur on you and get lots of sloppy kisses!

Responsibilities:
  • Training with assigned dogs daily
  • Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior modification of pets
  • Meet with clients on arrival and departure of pet to discuss training expectations and progress
  • Provide enrichment to training dogs
  • Document and be able to explain in detail the dog's behavior and training status for each training session. This is done in-person, through email and video.
  • Adhere to LIMA (least intrusive, minimally aversive) training standards in all interactions and training exercises. Exclusive use of positive reinforcement training methods through classical and operant conditioning.
  • Run preset class curriculum or develop class curriculum, where applicable
  • Maintain highest standards of education in dog training
  • Conduct group classes
  • Conduct private lessons
  • Assist with additional training sessions as needed, including virtual training when asked
  • Consult with other departments
  • Grow business by making recommendations to current Pet Parents.
  • Create content (photos, videos) for social media posting.
Work with a team who all exemplify these qualities:
  • A passion for animals and animal care, especially dogs + cats. Willing to learn animal behavior to ensure their safety.
  • Focuses on safe and gentle handling. Forceful, aversive, aggressive handling, vocalizing or treatment will not be tolerated.
  • Customer Service Oriented - Ability to take care of the customers' needs while following company procedures. Manages difficult or emotional customer situations; Responds promptly to customer needs; Responds to request for service and assistance. Build trust with customers.
  • Willing and able to communicate directly with clients, both written and orally, about their dog. Works to make these "lifetime clients".
  • Must be able to work under conditions that require sitting, standing, walking, bending, reaching, pulling, pushing and grasping.
  • Conflict Resolution - Ability to handle conflict with tact and diplomacy
  • Good team work and willingness to assist other departments as necessary
  • Cheerful, friendly, positive team-oriented attitude
  • Strong attention to detail, especially where documentation is concerned. Ability to work in computer systems such as Microsoft Office.
  • Reliable, punctual, and dependable
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including holidays and weekends
  • Ability to take direction well and apply it independently
  • Ability to work in temperature extremes, work outside, or in distracting work environments such as loud noise/sound
  • Ability to tolerate being in close contact with various bodily fluids and to get dirty frequently
  • Physically able to handle dogs of all sizes and to lift up to 60 lbs.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications For This Position:
  • Knowledge of Operant and Classical Conditioning as it pertains to training dogs preferred.
  • 1-2 years of experience in training animals or equivalent education is preferred.
  • Knowledge and understanding of dogs, dog behavior, and individual breed characteristics
  • CCPDT Certification or the ability to obtain certification within one year of employment.
Equal Employment Opportunity

NVA Pet Resorts is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Doggie District Pet Resort & Training Center offers award-winning dog boarding, dog daycare, dog grooming and dog training in Las Vegas, NV and Phoenix, AZ. Our exceptional facilities feature luxury boarding suites and state-of-the-art daycare play spaces, and our talented team is dedicated to providing the highest quality, healthiest and most fun-loving care for pets and the parents who love them. Doggie District has the best staff in the pet care industry, we couldn't be the Gold Standard without them!

Education:no requirementsEmployment Type: FULL_TIME