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Dog Handler Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

5G Dogtopia LLC

Dog Groomer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$50/hr

Would you love to WORK with dogs? Dogtopia is looking for fellow dog lovers to join our growing team as a Dog Groomer! Dogtopia is the industry leader in dog daycare where health and safety is always ...

5G Dogtopia LLC

Dog Groomer

Indianapolis, IN

Description Do you LOVE dogs? Would you love to WORK with dogs? Dogtopia is looking for fellow dog lovers to join our growing team as a Dog Groomer! Dogtopia is the industry leader in dog daycare ...

Riverview Farm Kennel

Be Seen First

Dog Trainer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Dog Trainer Location: Middle Tennessee Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site About Riverview Farm Kennel Do you have a passion for dogs and strong leadership skills? Riverview Farm Kennel, a busy and well ...

Scenthound Carmel, IN

Dog Groomer

Carmel, IN

The Dog Groomer is an integral position at Scenthound, offering grooming knowledge and providing grooming services to clients. This Dog Groomer position requires: * At least one year of grooming ...

4Pawz Only

Dog Trainer

Munster, IN

As the Dog Trainer, you will follow positive training philosophies. You will be responsible for brand consistency, delivering all program offerings and maintaining operational standards within the ...

Feeders Pet Supply

Dog Groomer

Evansville, IN · On-site

This dog grooming position earns commissions and tips . We provide awesome benefits , including flexible scheduling, education opportunities, employee discounts, and a free pet food program

Feeders Pet Supply

Dog Groomer

Vincennes, IN

This dog grooming position earns commissions and tips . We provide awesome benefits , including flexible scheduling, education opportunities, employee discounts, and a free pet food program

Feeders Pet Supply

Dog Groomer

Vincennes, IN · On-site

This dog grooming position earns commissions and tips . We provide awesome benefits , including flexible scheduling, education opportunities, employee discounts, and a free pet food program

Feeders Pet Supply

Dog Groomer

Corydon, IN · On-site

This dog grooming position earns commissions and tips . We provide awesome benefits , including flexible scheduling, education opportunities, employee discounts, and a free pet food program

Feeders Pet Supply

Dog Groomer

Clarksville, IN · On-site

This dog grooming position earns commissions and tips . We provide awesome benefits , including flexible scheduling, education opportunities, employee discounts, and a free pet food program

Feeders Pet Supply

Dog Groomer

New Albany, IN · On-site

This dog grooming position earns commissions and tips . We provide awesome benefits , including flexible scheduling, education opportunities, employee discounts, and a free pet food program

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All JobsDog Handler JobsDog Handler Jobs in Indiana

Dog Handler information

See Indiana salary details

$8

$13

$17

How much do dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog handler in Indiana is $13.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.68 and $15.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are dog handlers?

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 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 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.

How to become a working dog handler?

To become a working dog handler, individuals typically need to gain experience with dogs through training or volunteering, and often pursue relevant certifications such as those in canine obedience or specialized working dog training. Employers may also require a background in animal care, security, or law enforcement, along with physical fitness and the ability to work in various environments.

How much do dog show handlers get paid?

Dog show handlers typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, reputation, and the number of shows they attend. Compensation can include a combination of fees for handling, prize money, and commissions on sales of dogs or related services. Many handlers also need to invest in training, grooming, and travel expenses.

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 does a 31K military working dog handler make?

A military working dog handler with the military occupational specialty 31K typically earns a base salary aligned with military pay grades, which range from approximately $2,000 to $4,000 per month for enlisted personnel, depending on rank and years of service. Additional allowances for housing, food, and duty location can increase total compensation. Experience, certifications, and deployment status may also influence pay.

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 jobs pay $400 an hour?

In the field of dog handling, high-paying roles such as specialized search and rescue or security dog trainers can reach hourly rates of $400 or more, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand environments. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and sometimes working irregular hours or in challenging conditions.
More about Dog Handler jobs
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What job categories do people searching Dog Handler jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Dog Handler jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Dog Handler jobs in IN? For Dog Handler jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Dog Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Handler job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,374 per year, or $13.6 per hour.
Detection Dog Handlers

Detection Dog Handlers

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc.

Lafayette, IN • On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Temporary

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Detection Dog Handlers
Salary
24.00 - 30.00
Job Classification
Hourly
Location
Lafayette, IN 47901 US (Primary)
Job Type
Temporary
# of Hires Needed
2
Application Deadline
Job Description
Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic environmental and statistical consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada. We are looking for 2 temporary full-time Detection Dog Handlers to train and work with their own suitable dog(s) to monitor the impact of wind turbines on wildlife. Experienced field technicians with a dog(s) appropriate for scent detection training as well as those with appropriate dog(s) and experience training for or participating in nosework, tracking, hunting or field trials are encouraged to apply.
WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data. Since its founding in 1990, the WEST team has shaped the foundation of what we do, and what we believe in through our core values and key principles. Our work matters to our clients, communities, and the environment. Join WEST and discover a company of passionate, committed, and highly motivated individuals.
Please clickhereto see what benefits WEST offers!
Key Details:
  • Compensation: $24-30/hour, depending on experience
  • Dog Compensation: $35/day of dog field work
  • Housing: Housing or rent reimbursement provided for qualifying applicants
  • Start Date: 07/27/26
  • End Date: 10/15/26
  • Location: Lafayette, IN
  • Additional Details: Vehicle mileage will be reimbursed at the federal rate (for use of personal vehicle) or a rental vehicle plus gas reimbursement may be provided. Field safety equipment for both the handler and dog will be provided by WEST; handlers must be equipped with their own suitable footwear (e.g. steel or composite toe, rugged hiking boots) and field-appropriate clothing. Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies (proof required).

Job Summary:
Does your high-drive dog need a job? Are you interested in strengthening the bond between you and your dog while you train and work together to help with important wildlife research and conservation? This is an exciting opportunity to join WEST's detection dog team and get started in conservation detection dog work. The successful candidate for this position will:
  • Follow WEST's Scent Training Program for Conservation Detection Dogs to train their dog to WEST standards with guidance from a WEST Detection Dog Coordinator; standard benchmarks including field evaluations must be met as part of employment conditions (details below)
  • Survey areas beneath wind turbines for bat and bird carcasses with their trained and evaluated dog.
  • Provide routine care and sound risk management for their dog while working, such as following a vaccination protocol, properly using equipment, and administering basic first aid under field conditions; WEST provided dog compensation is intended to offset the cost of pet insurance and routine care/maintenance.
  • Collect biological data on bat and bird carcasses, per established protocols.
  • Participate in trials to measure sources of bias in estimating bat and bird fatalities.
  • Enter data into a tablet or spreadsheet, routinely check for accuracy, and submit to project staff in a timely manner.
  • Conduct ongoing training with their dog to ensure continued effective detection of bat and bird carcasses.
  • Willingness to work a flexible schedule that may vary in hours each week, depending on the season and project needs.
  • Communicate regularly with project coordinators on environmental conditions, safety concerns, data collection, and detection dog training and safety. Complete administrative tasks on a weekly basis, including timesheets and expense reports.
  • Be open to opportunities to conduct additional biological surveys in the same location, depending on experience and project needs.

This is a general description of the functions for this position and is not inclusive of all the duties which may be associated with this position.
Job Requirements
Job Requirements
  • Ownership of a suitable candidate dog (see Minimum Dog Suitability Requirements below) and successful completion of WEST's Scent Training Program for Wildlife Detection Dogs prior to the extension of a formal offer of employment (WEST provides the scent training protocol and virtual training guidance).
  • WEST's Scent Training Program requires the ability to upload videos and notes of training sessions consistently each week throughout the program, completion of stage assessments, and regular communication with a Dog Coordinator.
  • Successful completion of odor recognition testing and in-person, double-blind scent detection evaluation trials.
  • Conduct ongoing training throughout the season as needed to maintain efficiency, or as directed by a Dog Coordinator.
  • Demonstrable knowledge of dog behavior and rewards-based training; knowledge of both learning theory and scent theory is preferred.
  • Ability to work independently as well as communicate and coordinate effectively and professionally with crew members, site management, WEST project coordinators, and landowners.
  • Must demonstrate safe handling, control, and transportation of your dog(s) at all times.
  • Flexibility, a high degree of self-motivation, tolerance for doing repetitive tasks, and an ability to thrive under challenging field conditions.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Biology, or an equivalent degree is preferred; however, candidates without a degree that have suitable dog(s) and experience training, handling, or participating in applicable detection dog work or sports are encouraged to apply.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to walk 5-7+ miles a day over uneven terrain in variable weather conditions.
  • Ability to maintain a positive attitude during long work days (8-12+ hours) in the outdoors.
  • Must be comfortable with exposure to hazards typical of the environment (e.g., insects, dense, tall and prickly vegetation, mud, wildlife, unrestrained dogs, livestock, extreme heat and cold, high wind speeds, farming/agricultural activities, and poorly maintained roads).

Minimum Dog Suitability Requirements:
  • Physically healthy (i.e. no pre-existing conditions that could interfere with completion of work) and of an appropriate age and size to be able to walk/run 10 miles a day over uneven terrain in variable weather and environmental conditions.
  • Up-to-date on all locally required vaccines, including rabies (proof required).
  • Non-brachycephalic
  • No bite history
  • Demonstrates high level of trainability

After an offer of employment is made, the candidate must successfully pass a pre-employment background check, drug screening, and a DMV records check that meets WEST's minimum criteria to operate a motor vehicle on behalf of the company. A valid driver's license will be required. Candidates must adhere to all health and safety requirements.
WEST provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, genetics, and any protected veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Further, WEST takes affirmative action to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly, and without discrimination, for recruitment, selection, advancement and every other term and privilege associated with employment.
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Salary Grade
Exemption Type
Non-Exempt

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