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Dog Wrangler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Heights - Dog Handler

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

The dog handler position is a very important one. Without our dog handlers, we would be unable to do everything we do to care for our guests properly and ensure all of our guests and employees are ...

Experienced Dog Handler

Brooklyn, NY ยท On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Are you a total and incurable DOG LOVER? Are you someone who has already worked as a dog walker, pet sitter, dog daycare handler, groomer, vet tech, vet assistant, shelter staff, or animal rescue ...

Montrose - Dog Handler

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

The dog handler position is a very important one. Without our dog handlers, we would be unable to do everything we do to care for our guests properly and ensure all of our guests and employees are ...

OVERNIGHT Dog Handler

Glen Cove, NY ยท On-site

$17.50 - $19/hr

As a Dog Handler at our state-of-the-art facility, you'll be at the heart of this mission, shaping the future of pet care while enjoying meaningful growth opportunities in a thriving industry. If you ...

Dog Handler/Guest Care

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$11 - $12/hr

Guest Care / Dog Handler Job Type: [Part-Time] Schedule: [6AM-1PM/12:30PM-7PM] Do you love dogs more than most people? Are you the type who doesn't mind a little dirt, slobber, and lots of tail wags ...

Showing results 41-60

Dog Wrangler information

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$6

$17

$25

How much do dog wrangler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog wrangler in the United States is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog wrangler?

Dog Wranglers are professionals responsible for handling, managing, and caring for dogs, often on film or television sets, photo shoots, or live events. Their main duties include ensuring the safety and well-being of the dogs, helping them perform specific behaviors or tricks as required, and working closely with trainers and production teams. Dog Wranglers also help acclimate dogs to unfamiliar environments and ensure they are comfortable around people, equipment, and other animals.

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

To thrive as a Dog Wrangler, you need a solid understanding of canine behavior, basic animal care, and experience handling multiple dogs safely. Familiarity with tools such as leashes, harnesses, and sometimes pet management software is common, while pet CPR or first aid certification can be beneficial. Patience, strong communication, and calmness under pressure are standout soft skills for managing both animals and clients. These abilities are essential for ensuring the safety, well-being, and happiness of the dogs while maintaining positive relationships with owners.

What are some common challenges faced by dog wranglers when working with groups of dogs, and how are they typically addressed?

Dog Wranglers often encounter challenges such as managing group dynamics, preventing conflicts, and ensuring the safety and well-being of each dog. These challenges are typically addressed by maintaining vigilant supervision, understanding canine body language, and using positive reinforcement techniques to guide behavior. Dog Wranglers also work closely with other staff to ensure consistent routines and clear communication about each dog's needs, which helps create a safe and enjoyable environment for both dogs and team members.

What is the difference between Dog Wrangler vs Dog Trainer?

AspectDog WranglerDog Trainer
CredentialsExperience with handling dogs, basic knowledge of canine behaviorCertifications in dog training, obedience, or behavior modification
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, film sets, or events requiring dog handlingIndoor or outdoor training facilities, private homes, or shelters
Employer & IndustryFilm productions, photo shoots, outdoor eventsDog training schools, pet owners, shelters, or rescue organizations

Dog Wranglers primarily handle dogs on set or during events, focusing on safety and basic handling. Dog Trainers, however, teach dogs obedience and behavior skills, often working in training facilities or with pet owners. While both roles require canine handling skills, Dog Trainers typically have formal certifications, whereas Dog Wranglers rely more on experience. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right role based on your skills and career goals.

How do you become a dog wrangler?

To become a dog wrangler, gaining experience working with dogs through volunteering, pet sitting, or training is helpful. Many positions require knowledge of dog behavior, handling skills, and sometimes certifications in pet first aid or training. Building a strong understanding of canine needs and safety protocols is essential for this role.
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Infographic showing various Dog Wrangler job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,770 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Heights - Dog Handler

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Our guests come here to enjoy an open play environment where dogs can be dogs but always remember that group play is a privilege that can be taken away if the dog is displaying concerning behavior of any kind while in group*. The dog handler position is a very important one. Without our dog handlers, we would be unable to do everything we do to care for our guests properly and ensure all of our guests and employees are safe. With that being said, a list of a dog handlers' expectations are as follows;

  • Consistently and thoroughly monitor dogs in the group and scan the room/yard

  • Hover over dogs at play to promptly separate them if play is too rough

  • Pick up waste and dispose of it in appropriate areas

  • Maintain clean play areas (dog waste/hair, etc.)

  • Utilize time-outs/rotations and report them to Management

  • Inform incoming staff of behaviors, time-outs, incidents, general health, etc

  • Clean overnight kennels and transfer belongings into appropriate bins

  • Keep up with rotations between groups

  • Follow all company policies and procedures

  • Remain on your feet in the room/yard at all times

Essential Functions for Wag'n World Employees

The list of essential functions below are some of the basic requirements all employees must be able to perform daily. All Wag'n World employees must have the ability to...

  • Work in noisy environments for long periods of time
  • Work in messy environments (ie. fur, dog dander, feces, vomit, and all other animal expressions)
  • Be alert and pay attention to detail for long periods of time
  • Lift and carry 45 lbs
  • Function in high stress situations
  • Climb on step stools/ladders to properly perform cleaning procedures
  • Stand and walk for at least 8 hours
  • Run for emergency situations
  • Bend, reach, twist, stretch, pull, and crawl
  • Work with various cleaning products (ie. chemicals)
  • Interact kindly and respectfully to all staff and all dogs
  • Find coverage for shifts if you are unable to work
  • To be recorded with video and audio while in work areas
  • Follow basic and complex instruction (complex = instructions with 2 or more steps)
  • Adhere to safety protocol
  • Follow company policies and procedures
  • Understand the risk involved when working with animals
  • Work in a fast-paced environment
  • Think and react quickly
  • Maintain our drug free workplace
  • Must be able to communicate effectively in English for operational purposes