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Guard Dog Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Must be dog friendly. * Must keep a professional appearance, have good personal hygiene * Must be ... California BSIS Guard Card * California BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit with 9mm endorsement * *All ...

Residential Security Agent

Woodside, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Must be dog friendly. * Must keep a professional appearance, have good personal hygiene * Must be ... California BSIS Guard Card * California BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit * Must successfully pass an EMT ...

Must be dog friendly. * Must keep a professional appearance, have good personal hygiene * Must be ... California BSIS Guard Card * California BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit with 9mm endorsement * Passport

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Guard Dog information

See California salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do guard dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for guard dog in California is $18.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a guard dog?

A guard dog is trained to protect property, people, or livestock by detecting and responding to threats. These dogs are often used by security firms, businesses, or private owners to deter intruders and alert their handlers to suspicious activity. Unlike pets, guard dogs undergo specialized training to develop protective instincts and controlled aggression. They require consistent training, socialization, and care to perform their duties effectively.

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

To thrive as a Guard Dog, innate alertness, obedience, and a strong protective instinct are essential, often supported by specialized training. Professional guard dogs typically undergo certification in protection work and may utilize equipment such as harnesses or muzzles during patrols. Consistency, responsiveness to commands, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are important soft skills for this role. These attributes are vital to ensure the effective, safe protection of property and people in a variety of security settings.

What is a typical work environment like for a professional guard dog?

Professional guard dogs commonly work in environments such as commercial properties, warehouses, private estates, or event venues, often under the supervision of trained handlers. The role typically involves patrolling designated areas, responding to threats, and working closely with security teams to ensure a safe perimeter. Guard dogs may work varied shifts, including nights and weekends, depending on the employer’s security needs. Teamwork with handlers is crucial, as ongoing reinforcement of training and proper care are required to keep the dog alert and healthy. While challenging, this role can be rewarding for dogs with the right temperament and training, as they play a key part in safeguarding people and property.

How to become a guard dog?

To become a guard dog handler, individuals typically need to complete training in security procedures and animal handling, often obtaining relevant certifications or licenses depending on local regulations. Experience with dogs, knowledge of security protocols, and the ability to work in various environments are important for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Guard Dog jobs in California?

For Guard Dog jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Guard Dog jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Guard Dog jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Guard Dog jobs?

Cities in California with the most Guard Dog job openings:

Infographic showing various Guard Dog job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,072 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Explosive Detection Canine (K9) Handler

Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$31.64/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Partner with a trained Explosive Detection K9 to conduct searches in/at assigned client sites, including corporate buildings, loading docks, delivery vehicles, open areas and/or other situations as needed

  • Assist and liaise effectively with the client's security manager, law enforcement agencies, security personnel, and local partners or their representatives in the execution of security protocols

  • Properly train the Explosive Detection K9, in accordance with company policy, ensuring their safety and well-being


Allied Universal rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 2,608 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 118 rated security


Job description

Overview

Company Overview:

Advance your career in security with Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services, the global leader in security and threat mitigation. Following the acquisition of MSA Security® in 2021, we became the world’s largest non-governmental canine detection company. Specializing in canine explosives and firearm detection, we offer exciting career opportunities for those passionate about canine security. Join our innovative team committed to excellence in the security industry and make a meaningful impact. Explore key roles such as canine officers, handlers, trainers, veterinary technicians, and kennel managers.


Job Description

Our canine group, under Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services, is hiring an Explosive Detection Canine (K9) Handler. The Explosive Detection K9 Handler partners with a trained Explosive Detection Canine (EDC), or “K9”, to conduct searches in/at assigned client sites, including corporate buildings, loading docks, delivery vehicles, open areas and/or other situations as needed.

Ready to make a difference as a canine handler.

   

Previous canine experience is not required, paid training provided. 

Pay Rate: $31.64 per hour

Canine stipend / training and care provided. 

Required for this position minimum of two yearsone of these qualifications'military, law enforcement or corrections.

Must have a private vehicle to transport K9 partner, they cannot be transported via public transportation.

Must be able to accommodate housing for K9 partner; K9 partner resides with you.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Partner with a trained Explosive Detection K9 to conduct searches in/at assigned client sites, including corporate buildings, loading docks, delivery vehicles, open areas and/or other situations as needed
  • Assist and liaise effectively with the client’s security manager, law enforcement agencies, security personnel, and local partners or their representatives in the execution of the security protocols as agreed to and described in the specific post orders for each post
  • Properly train the Explosive Detection K9, in accordance with Company policy, each day and ensuring their safety and well-being
  • Adhere to all regulatory or other protocols, including the use of any required technology

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Licensing requirements are subject to state and/or local laws and regulations and may be required prior to employment
  • Must possess a minimum of two (2) years in one or more of the following:
    • Service in any military branch (including Guard and Reserve)
    • Law enforcement role, with a completed accredited Law Enforcement Academy (Municipal/State/Federal)
    • Municipal or federal correctional officer, including attending a full-time accredited LE/Corrections Academy (must have enforcement responsibilities)
  • Possess adequate living environment to allow for the proper exercise and training of the K9
  • Access to reliable transportation sufficient to allow the safe transportation of the K9 to and from work
  • Willingness and ability to be available for incident/emergency response duty, standby duty, and client demonstrations, which includes various days and hours

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Service in Military Occupational Specialty related to law enforcement, security (such as Military Police, Elite Military Forces, combat arms) or any support role in a Combat Zone
  • Prior civilian or military K9 handler experience
  • Completion of a full military handler course
  • Bachelor’s degree in law enforcement or criminal justice related studies
  • A minimum of 8 or more years of service in any military branch

BENEFITS:

  • Medical, dental, vision, basic life, AD&D, and disability insurance
  • Paid time off offered at an accrual rate of 1 hour per 25 hours worked on a weekly basis
  • Eight paid holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee discounts through our perks program to your favorite restaurants, entertainment venues, and much more!

Closing

Allied Universal® is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, age, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or relationship/association with a protected veteran, or any other basis or characteristic protected by law. For more information: www.aus.com

If you have difficulty using the online system and require an alternate method to apply or require an accommodation, please contact our local Human Resources department. To find an office near you, please visit: www.aus.com/offices.


Requisition ID
2026-1660166

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About Allied Universal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Allied Universal® is a leading security and facility services company. We provide proactive security services and cutting-edge smart technology to deliver evolving, tailored solutions that allow our clients to focus on their core business. Our excellence starts with our local leadership and local presence. Operating in more than 90 countries, our global workforce of approximately 800,000 people. Employees help to deliver our promise globally and locally: keeping people safe so our customers and communities can thrive. As we build the world's best services company, we continue to expand our footprint and infrastructure on a global and local level. In North America, we operate our business under the existing Allied Universal brand, and our international business operates under the G4S brand.

Industry

Investigation and physical security services, chemical manufacturing and real estate

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Ana, CA, US