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Dog Handler Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Scenthound

Dog Bather Groomer in Training

Parker, CO · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Direct career growth path to Dog Groomer position and additional options (Front Desk, Asst. Manager, Manager) * Competitive hourly base pay, plus tips * Merit-based pay increases * Complimentary ...

Scenthound

Dog Bather Groomer in Training

Centennial, CO · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Direct career growth path to Dog Groomer position and additional options (Front Desk, Assistant Manager, Manager) * Competitive hourly base pay, plus tips * Merit-based pay increases * Complimentary ...

Scenthound

Dog Bather/Groomer in Training

Littleton, CO · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Direct career growth path to Dog Groomer position and additional options (Front Desk, Asst. Manager, Manager) * Competitive hourly base pay, plus tips * Merit-based pay increases * Complimentary ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Colorado Springs, CO

$17 - $21.50/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Thornton, CO

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Fort Collins, CO

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Aurora, CO

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Thornton, CO · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Greeley, CO · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Greeley, CO

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Denver, CO · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Aurora, CO · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Denver, CO

$18 - $23/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own. RESPONSIBILITIES The law enforcement and ...

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All JobsDog Handler JobsDog Handler Jobs in Colorado

Dog Handler information

See Colorado salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog handler in Colorado is $15.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog handler?

A dog handler is a professional who provides training and care for dogs. A dog handler sometimes doubles as a dog walker, promoting physical activity for the dog. Dog handlers replenish food and water, conduct training to reinforce learning, and communicate with the client about changes in their dog’s health, behavior, or training needs. Dog handlers play an integral role in the dog’s overall health, spending many hours each week cleaning, training, walking, and bonding with the dog.

What does a dog handler do?

Dog handlers are professionals who work with dogs to train, manage, and care for them in various settings. They may work in fields such as law enforcement, dog training schools, kennels, animal shelters, or as part of search and rescue teams. Their responsibilities can include training dogs for specific tasks, ensuring their well-being, and handling them safely during work or competitions. Dog handlers require patience, knowledge of canine behavior, and strong communication skills to effectively work with both dogs and their owners.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dog handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dog Handler, you need a solid understanding of canine behavior, basic animal care, and often prior experience with dogs or relevant certifications such as pet first aid. Familiarity with leash and training equipment, kennel management software, and basic grooming tools is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure the safety, well-being, and effective management of dogs in various settings, fostering trust with both the animals and their owners.

What are some common challenges dog handlers face when working with diverse breeds and temperaments?

Dog Handlers often work with dogs that have varying personalities, energy levels, and behavioral histories. One common challenge is learning to quickly assess and adapt handling techniques to each dog's unique needs, especially when managing groups. Handlers must also ensure safety for both the animals and themselves, particularly when introducing unfamiliar dogs to new environments or routines. Building trust with each dog takes patience and consistency, and strong communication with team members helps address any behavioral issues efficiently.

What is the difference between Dog Handler vs K9 Officer?

AspectDog HandlerK9 Officer
CertificationsCanine handling certifications, obedience trainingPolice K9 certification, law enforcement training
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, training facilities, private securityLaw enforcement agencies, police departments
Employer & IndustryPrivate companies, security firms, sheltersPolice departments, government agencies

Dog Handlers typically work in private or civilian settings focusing on training, care, and handling of dogs. K9 Officers are law enforcement professionals who work with police-trained dogs for detection, search, and apprehension. While both roles require canine handling skills and certifications, K9 Officers operate within law enforcement environments, whereas Dog Handlers may work in various civilian sectors.

How much do dog handlers get paid?

Dog handlers typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry such as security, law enforcement, or training. Salaries can vary based on certifications, specialized skills, and whether they work full-time or part-time.

How much does a dog handler earn?

Dog handlers typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in such as security, law enforcement, or search and rescue. Salaries can increase with specialized training, certifications, and years of service.

Is it hard to be a dog handler?

Being a dog handler requires physical fitness, patience, and training skills to work effectively with dogs in various environments. The job can be demanding due to the need for attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and sometimes irregular hours or outdoor work. Proper certification and experience can help manage the challenges involved.
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Dog Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Handler job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,355 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Dog Bather/Groomer in Training

Scenthound - South Denver

Littleton, CO • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee discounts
  • Training & development

Perks and Benefits:
  • Direct career growth path to Dog Groomer position and additional options (Front Desk, Asst. Manager, Manager)
  • Competitive hourly base pay, plus tips
  • Merit-based pay increases
  • Complimentary service membership
About the Position: 
The Dog Bather is a fundamental position at Scenthound, offering quick and efficient services that meet Scenthound standards.
 
This position requires:
  • Strength to lift up to 70 pounds; stamina to stand for long periods of time
  • Reliable transportation
  • Willingness to work in a smoke-free environment
Who We Are Looking For:
We are searching for a detail-oriented team member who has a passion for keeping dogs clean and healthy! A successful Dog Bather is resilient, perceptive, patient, adaptable, and a compassionate dog lover! We are looking for a motivated team member who wants to advance their career through our training path to become a Scenthound Groomer!
Tasks:
  • Clean and/ or prep dogs for grooming, according to the order ticket
  • Bathe, blow dry, clip/ grind nails, clean ears, brush coat, clean teeth, express glands
  • Identify the dog’s health indicators and input them into a S.C.E.N.T. Check app
  • Work on a team to complete the services ordered
  • Assist others/ Ask others for assistance when needed to keep Scenter on schedule
  • Ensure the safety of dogs and team members at all times
  • Adhere to Scenthound sanitary and cleaning practices
  • Perform other tasks and duties as assigned by the Scenter Manager
Skills and Abilities:
  • Dog Control
  • Effective communication with team members and dog parents
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Time-management
  • Patience
  • Ability to self-critique; hold oneself and others to Scenthound standards