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Dog Handler Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Comforted Canine

Dog Sitter

Napa, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Professional Pet Sitter & Dog Walker- Napa, CA Area Do you love dogs (or cats) and enjoy working independently? The Comforted Kitty is looking for reliable, responsible pet lovers to provide in-home ...

Scenthound

Dog Groomer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$22/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 ...

Scenthound Petaluma, CA

Dog Groomer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$22/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 ...

Comforted Canine

Dog Sitter

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Professional Pet Sitter & Dog Walker- Santa Rosa / Sonoma County Area Do you love dogs (or cats) and enjoy working independently? The Comforted Kitty is looking for reliable, responsible pet lovers ...

Petco

Dog Trainer

Novato, CA · 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

Novato, CA · 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 ...

Scenthound

Dog Bather Groomer in Training

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Direct career growth path to Dog Groomer position and additional options (Front Desk, Ass. Manager, Manager) * Competitive hourly base pay, plus tips * Medical, dental, and vision insurance benefits

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All JobsDog Handler JobsDog Handler Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Dog Handler information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog handler in Santa Rosa, CA is $15.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $17.36 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.

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 popular job titles related to Dog Handler jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Dog Handler jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dog Handler jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Dog Handler jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Dog Handler jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Dog Handler job openings:
Dog Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dog Handler job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,602 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Dog Sitter

Comforted Canine

Napa, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Contractor

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Professional Pet Sitter & Dog Walker- Napa, CA Area
Do you love dogs (or cats) and enjoy working independently? The Comforted Kitty is looking for reliable, responsible pet lovers to provide in-home dog or cat sitting visits and dog walking while clients are away.
This is a flexible, part-time independent contractor position where all jobs are voluntary and you set your availability and service area, and we match you with clients. It's a great fit if you want meaningful, independent work caring for dogs and cats, helping pet parents travel with peace of mind, and building trust with repeat clients.What You'll Do
Pet sitting visits may include:
  • Feeding and refreshing water
  • Cleaning up waste
  • Giving playtime, affection, or companionship based on each pet's personality
  • Sending visit updates and photos through our app
  • Following each client's detailed care instructions
  • Bringing in mail or packages
  • Adjusting lights, blinds, or trash/recycling when requested
  • Administering medication when within your experience and comfort level
Most visits take place while clients are traveling, so weekend, holiday, morning, afternoon, and evening availability is especially valuable.Service Types
  • Walks: 30-90 minutes (1-3x daily)
  • Drop-ins: 30 / 45 / 60 minutes (1-3x daily)
  • Extended daytime visits: 2-8 hours
  • Overnights: 10-12 hour stays
  • 24-hour care: live-in with overnight care
What We Look For
  • Experienced with dog or cat care, especially in a pet sitting capacity
  • Confidently handle dogs from small to large
  • Reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented
  • Strong written communication
  • Comfortable working independently in clients' homes
  • Smartphone with reliable internet & camera
  • Medication experience (oral, injections, fluids)
  • Holiday & weekend availability
Pay + Perks
  • Sitters are paid per visit, with rates typically starting around $25 per 30 minute visit, with higher pay for longer visits, overnight care, house sitting.
  • Weekly direct deposit
  • Bonus opportunities (holidays, short notice, strong feedback)
  • 100% of tips go to you
Apply
Apply through our quick, mobile-friendly application.
Notes:
  • Apply to one location only
  • No phone calls (we contact strong matches)

Apply