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Dog Handler Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canine Coach Dog Handler

Torrance, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20/hr

Education in basic dog obedience and training * Fun, dynamic team culture with more than 100 locations * Career progression based on performance * Additional certification programs available

Canine Coach Dog Handler

Torrance, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20/hr

Education in basic dog obedience and training * Fun, dynamic team culture with more than 100 locations * Career progression based on performance * Additional certification programs available

Canine Handler

Pittsburgh, PA

$12.50 - $16/hr

Join The Dog Stop South Hills as a Canine Handler, where your passion for dogs meets a rewarding ... Knowledge of dog behavior and training techniques is a plus. * Must be reliable, punctual, and have ...

Canine Handler

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$12.50 - $16/hr

Join The Dog Stop South Hills as a Canine Handler, where your passion for dogs meets a rewarding ... Knowledge of dog behavior and training techniques is a plus. * Must be reliable, punctual, and have ...

Canine Handler

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$12.50 - $16/hr

  • PTO

Join The Dog Stop South Hills as a Canine Handler, where your passion for dogs meets a rewarding ... Knowledge of dog behavior and training techniques is a plus. * Must be reliable, punctual, and have ...

Dog Playroom Trainer

Mckinney, TX · On-site

$11 - $14/hr

  • Retirement

Basic knowledge of dog safety Experience as a kennel technician, vet assistant, dog handler, dog trainer, dog walker, pet care associate, FFA, or 4H background is a plus -- but not required. Who This ...

Canine Handler

Queens, NY · On-site

$24.72 - $27.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Care for the dog is allocated towards the salary. Completion of formal training in animal-assisted intervention, including: * Handler must have an established relationship with the dog for a minimum ...

Canine Handler

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$24.72 - $27.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Care for the dog is allocated towards the salary. Completion of formal training in animal-assisted intervention, including: * Handler must have an established relationship with the dog for a minimum ...

Showing results 41-60

Dog Handler Trainer information

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How much do dog handler trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog handler trainer in the United States is $38.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.30 and $40.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog handler trainer?

Dog Handler Trainers are professionals who specialize in teaching both dogs and their handlers how to work together effectively. They train dogs for obedience, behavior modification, and specific tasks, while also instructing handlers on proper techniques and communication methods. These trainers may work with pet owners, service dogs, police or military dogs, and dogs used in sports or entertainment. Their goal is to enhance the relationship between the dog and the handler, ensuring safety, performance, and mutual understanding.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a dog handler trainer?

To thrive as a Dog Handler Trainer, you need deep knowledge of canine behavior, training techniques, and animal care, often supported by relevant certifications such as Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). Familiarity with training tools (e.g., leashes, clickers), behavior assessment systems, and sometimes animal first aid is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills help trainers effectively instruct both dogs and their owners. These skills and qualities ensure safety, successful training outcomes, and positive relationships between handlers, dogs, and clients.

What challenges do dog handler trainers face when working with dogs of varying temperaments?

Dog Handler Trainers often encounter dogs with a wide range of temperaments and behavior issues, from high-energy puppies to anxious or aggressive adults. Adapting training methods to suit individual dogs can be challenging and requires patience, observation, and flexibility. Effective trainers build trust gradually, use positive reinforcement, and tailor their approach to each dog’s learning style. Collaboration with pet owners or other handlers is also key to maintaining consistency and ensuring progress outside of formal training sessions.

What is the difference between Dog Handler Trainer vs Dog Obedience Instructor?

AspectDog Handler TrainerDog Obedience Instructor
CertificationsPet training certifications, handler licensesObedience training certifications, pet trainer credentials
Work EnvironmentTraining grounds, security sites, service dog programsClassrooms, training centers, pet stores
Employer & IndustrySecurity firms, service dog organizations, private trainersPet training schools, obedience clubs, pet stores

Dog Handler Trainers focus on training dogs for specific roles like security or service work, often working in specialized environments. Dog Obedience Instructors primarily teach pet owners how to train their dogs in basic obedience skills in classroom settings. While both roles require similar certifications and involve dog training, their work environments and client focus differ significantly.

More about Dog Handler Trainer jobs

What states have the most Dog Handler Trainer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dog Handler Trainer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Dog Handler Trainer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Dog Handler Trainer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Dog Handler Trainer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $79,399 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Dog Handler (Canine Coach)

BKBM LONG ISLAND CITY LLC

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description:

Dogtopia (BKBM LLC), the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services has an immediate opening for an energetic, organized individual to be the star of our playroom as a Canine Coach. Extensive training is provided for this position and we have both morning and afternoon part-time positions available.
Core Competencies:

  • Consistent and timely attendance
  • Ability to learn dog recognition
  • Completion of all E-learning platforms
  • Meal recording
  • Proper control of all dogs in all rooms
  • Ability to help in Grooming tasks
  • Safety is always number 1!

Have Fun on Camera!

  • Maintain control of large groups of dogs
  • All rooms are equipped with cameras for pet parents to stay engaged
  • Caring for all furry friends as if they were a part of your family
  • Keep data accurate with current dogs
  • Engage, Play and Enjoy the furry friends!
  • Understanding our Dogtopia-isms
  • The rules by which we, as Dogtopians live by are:
  • We LOVE life unconditionally like a dog.
  • We STAY loyal to our pack.
  • We CHASE the absolute highest standards of safety.
  • We PLAY to our fullest potential.
  • We TREAT every day like It’s the Most Exciting Day Ever!

Health and Grooming

  • Will learn how to perform grooming tasks such as baths and nails, ear and teeth cleaning
  • Will learn how to identify dog breeds and behaviors
  • Report dog scuffles right when they occur for safe wound cleaning if needed
  • Work with team to assure our Quality of Care sets the standards for dog care

Clean and Safe Environment to ensure our furry friends are always in a safe and clean environment we take pride in working as a team to get all the nitty gritty complete

  • Maintain and update cleaning schedule, along with holding themselves and team accountable to the Dogtopia’s safety and cleaning standards
  • Inventory management of cleaning, dog and First Aid supplies
  • Dismisses dogs proactively with ongoing behavior issues and monitors action plans to retain those with minor issues

As the Canine Coach you are responsible to work closely with our furry friends in creating a safe and fun environment while still setting the highest standards and satisfaction of our customers.

Requirements:

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Supervising the dogs in the playrooms
  • Ensuring all play by dogs are safe and friendly
  • Cleaning after the dog's urine and feces
  • Correctly and safely removing and putting on dog collars, harnesses, etc.
  • Take dogs from the owner to enter the playroom or take dogs from the playroom to return to their owner
  • Communicating any dog health or safety issues
  • Administering food and medications
  • Maintaining a clean and sanitary facility
  • Perform Meet and Greets to a high standard (dog temperament tests)
  • Perform cross-trained duties to a high standard whenever needed (front desk/bathing/rover)
  • Additional projects or tasks may be assigned as needed to support the team, facility or clients

Qualifications:

  • Must be able to respond quickly if a scuffle breaks out
  • Must be confident around all dog breeds and sizes
  • Must love dogs
  • Ability to spend up to 100% of work time standing
  • Ability to work flexible days and hours, including holidays and weekends
  • Ability to work cohesively with others in a fun, fast paced environment
  • Strong customer service skills
  • Ability to “own” a room of dogs

Personal Characteristics:

  • Detail oriented
  • Quick thinker
  • Emotionally intelligent
  • Outgoing, enthusiastic by nature
  • Excellent communicator
  • Strong observance skills
  • Strong multitasker
  • Confident