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Dog Handler Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Petco

Dog Trainer

Appleton, WI · On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Wausau, WI · On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Delafield, WI · On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Oak Creek, WI · On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Delafield, WI · On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Lake Geneva, WI · On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Delafield, WI

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Wausau, WI · On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Wauwatosa, WI

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Oak Creek, WI · On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Appleton, WI · On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Lake Geneva, WI

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Scenthound

Dog Bather / Groomer in training

Glendale, WI · On-site

$15/hr

Direct career growth path to Dog Trimmer position and additional options (Lead Trimmer, Front Desk, Ass. Manager, Manager) * Competitive hourly base pay, plus tips About the Position: The Dog Bather ...

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All JobsDog Handler JobsDog Handler Jobs in Wisconsin

Dog Handler information

See Wisconsin salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog handler in Wisconsin is $14.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $16.01 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
What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Handler jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Dog Handler jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Dog Handler jobs in Wisconsin? For Dog Handler jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dog Handler jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Dog Handler jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Dog Handler jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Dog Handler job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Dog Handler jobs in WI? For Dog Handler jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Dog Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Handler job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 61% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,097 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

Dog Trainer

Petco

Appleton, WI • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Petco rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 637 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

458th of 732 rated retailers

Job description

Want to help pets live their best lives?
We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet people go. If you want to make a real difference, create an exciting career path, feel welcome to be your whole self and nurture your wellbeing, Petco is the place for you.
Our core values capture that spirit as we work to improve lives by doing what's right for pets and people.
  • Pet First - Protect & Empower. All pets should Live their Best Life. We put the needs of pets and pet parents at the center of everything we do.

  • Foster the Fun - Connect & Bond. Our Passion for pets brings us together! We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services.

  • Let's Go! Own & Commit. We are stronger as One Petco team. We bring our unique superpowers and champion authenticity in everyone to drive success.

About Petco:
We're proud to be "where the pets go" to find everything they need to live their best lives for more than 60 years - from their favorite meals and toys, to trusted supplies and expert support from people who get it, because we live it. We believe in the universal truths of pet parenthood - the boundless boops, missing slippers, late night zoomies and everything in between. And we're here for it. Every tail wag, every vet visit, every step of the way. We are 29,000+ strong and together we nurture the pet-human bond in more than 1,500 Petco stores across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics and eight distribution centers. In 1999, we founded Petco Love. Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately 7 million animals through in-store adoption events.
Position Overview
As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will play a vital role in furthering Petco's mission as a Pet Health and Wellness company by enhancing the bond between pet parents and their dog companions. Your expertise in modern dog training techniques and positive reinforcement methods will help pet parents develop well-behaved, happy, and healthy dogs. You will provide one-on-one training sessions, group classes, and offer advice on basic training, environmental management, and customized training plans to address specific training goals. In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the health and wellness of pets by providing recommendations on healthy nutrition, world class services and essential supplies.
Position Responsibilities
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
The Dog Trainer role consists of 2 core responsibilities:
Provide World Class Dog Training Services
  • Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor.
  • Complete all assigned Workday Learning modules and DTIP Student Workbook materials per the DTIP roadmap.
  • Recommend and sell appropriate dog training classes, training, and supplies to ensure pet parents and their dogs have the necessary resources for a successful dog training experience.
  • Keep accurate records of training sessions, progress, and pet parents' feedback.
  • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
  • Work cross functionally with the grooming and veterinary teams to provide holistic whole health solutions for all pet parents.
  • Complete and apply ongoing training programs to maintain a high level of expertise in the role.

Provide 360-Degree Solutions for all Petco Guests
  • Provide an outstanding guest experience by actively engaging with guests in the recommendation and selection of merchandise and services in accordance with their identified needs.
  • Generate future business through a deep understanding of the guest and their pet(s) and connection to our digital platforms.
  • Demonstrate a high level of awareness and knowledge for the health, welfare, and proper handling of all animals.
  • Perform related duties to support the Pet Care Center in achieving its performance goals.
  • Ensure merchandise is stocked, priced, and displayed to enhance the shopping experience for pet parents.
  • Complete cash register transactions and support guests with their OMNI shopping experience as needed.
  • Adhere to established operational guidelines, policies, and procedures.
  • Promote a positive culture of teamwork, inclusion, and collaboration.
  • Complete other duties and special projects as assigned.
  • Evaluate guest inquiries and refer to the Leader on Duty as needed.

Other Essential Duties
  • UTILIZE SELLING BEHAVIORS. You're the key to providing an amazing guest experience within our Pet Care Center Locations. Utilizing the behaviors within our Sales Model is critical to being able to identify and solve for their needs both today and in the future.
  • CONTRIBUTE TO A SAFE ENVIRONMENT. You'll be empowered through our training programs to maintain our safety protocols. Bottom line, the safety of partners, guests and pets is our #1 priority.
  • BE A PART OF A COLLABORATIVE CULTURE. Being a great teammate is key to creating a culture that is centered around solving for the health and wellness needs of pets.
  • ENGAGE IN YOUR CAREER. As you develop your skills and knowledge, you will have the opportunity to participate in developmental programs to support your continued growth throughout your career.

Certification Requirements
  • Stage 1: All candidates are required to complete the 'Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP)' to become Petco Certified Dog Trainer consisting of the following:
    • Dog Training Apprentice: 6-weeks weeks of instructor led learning and development.
  • Stage 2: Dog Trainer: Successfully run and grow the dog training business in one of Petco's Pet Care Centers with local and national marketing support, with access to internal partner resources, networking, and client acquisition through our state-of-the-art online booking and scheduling systems.
  • Stage 3: Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dog.
  • Note: Approved candidates with prior experience that can pass both skill and knowledge assessments may be eligible for accelerated training.

Basic Qualifications
  • Passion for animal care, training, and welfare and a genuine interest for improving the lives of pets and their pet parents.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with pet parents and provide clear instructions, demonstrations and applicable selling techniques.
  • Demonstrated ability to handle and work with dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds in a safe and humane manner.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities effectively.
  • Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed to accommodate the training schedule and store operations.
  • Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift heavy objects (up to 50 pounds) associated with dog training equipment and supplies.
  • Familiarity with computer systems and software to manage training records, schedules, and communication with pet parents.

Supervisory Responsibility
  • None

Starting Rate:
$14.00
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