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Dog Handler Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

K2K9 SOLUTIONS LLC

Canine Handler (Nashville)

Nashville, TN · On-site

$25 - $36/hr

Details about K2K9's proprietary Person-Borne (TM) Explosive Detection Dog (PB-EDD) program are at ... The Canine Handler Team will be required to search for and identify explosive threats at commercial ...

Dutchbros

Broista - Collierville, TN

Collierville, TN

$16/hr

It's fun to work in a company where people truly believe in what they are doing. At Dutch Bros Coffee, we are more than just a coffee company. We are a fun-loving, mind-blowing company that makes a ...

PetSuites

Dog Trainer

Arlington, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

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 ...

PetSuites

Dog Trainer

Arlington, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

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 ...

Scenthound

Dog Groomer

Franklin, TN · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

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 ...

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All JobsDog Handler JobsDog Handler Jobs in Tennessee

Dog Handler information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$13

$16

How much do dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog handler in Tennessee is $13.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.11 and $14.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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.
More about Dog Handler jobs
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What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Dog Handler jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Dog Handler job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Dog Handler jobs in TN? For Dog Handler jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Dog Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Handler job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, and 46% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $27,064 per year, or $13 per hour.

Dog Host (Full-Time & Part-Time)

Yardstick Dog Hotel

Nashville, TN • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Yardstick is a boutique, suites-only dog hotel defining dog hospitality in Nashville through personalized care, elevated service, and a calmer, more thoughtful experience for dogs and their people. We’re hiring full-time and part-time Dog Hosts to join our growing team and help deliver exceptional daily care and customer experience across our Nashville-area locations.

If you love dogs, stay calm in busy environments, and take pride in great service, we’d love to meet you.

Why Yardstick
  • Calm, well-designed work environment
  • Growing company with advancement opportunities
  • Full-time and part-time roles available
  • Competitive pay, tips, and benefits
What You’ll Do
  • Care for and supervise dogs during group play and daily routines
  • Feed dogs and administer medications as directed
  • Monitor behavior, wellness, and safety throughout the day
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized facility
  • Communicate with customers before, during, and after stays
  • Support smooth daily operations with your team
What We’re Looking For
  • Reliable, hardworking, and team-oriented
  • Strong communication and customer service skills
  • Comfortable working with dogs of all sizes and temperaments
  • Able to stay active and on your feet during shifts
  • Organized and able to multitask in a fast-paced setting
  • Prior pet care experience is a plus, but not required
  • Available on weekends and holidays
  • Reliable transportation
Compensation & Benefits
  • Starting at $17/hour + tips
  • PTO, medical, dental, and vision insurance (full-time)
  • Employee discounts
  • Growth opportunities

Location: Nashville, TN & Williamson County, TN (including our Nashville locations and upcoming Franklin location — not yet open)

Keywords: dog hotel, pet resort, dog boarding, dog daycare, kennel technician, kennel attendant, dog handler, animal care, pet services, veterinary assistant, veterinary technician, vet tech, dog trainer, dog groomer


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