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Police Dog Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Rialto, CA

Police Officer Lateral

Rialto, CA · On-site

$7K - $9K/mo

... dog to protect self and others as assigned. 5. Plans, executes, writes and serves search warrants ... Training: High School diploma or equivalent supplemented by course work in police science, criminal ...

City of Rialto

Police Officer Lateral

Rialto, CA

$7K - $9K/mo

... dog to protect self and others as assigned. 5. Plans, executes, writes and serves search warrants ... Training: High School diploma or equivalent supplemented by course work in police science, criminal ...

City of Sioux Falls, SD

Police Officer

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$34.63 - $49.15/hr

SWAT/Bomb Squad, School & Community Resource Officers, Detective's Bureau, Police Service Dog Unit (K-9), Training Division, and many more!! * Candidates may seek out our clear path to rank-based ...

U.S. Army

Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

The training is in two phases. The first seven-week phase covers on-the-job instruction and teaches police methods and techniques for dog handling. The second phase of instruction is an 11-week ...

City of Sioux Falls

Police Officer

Sioux Falls, SD

$34.63 - $49.15/hr

SWAT/Bomb Squad, School & Community Resource Officers, Detective's Bureau, Police Service Dog Unit (K-9), Training Division, and many more!. Candidates may seek out our clear path to rank-based ...

U.S. Army

Working Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

The training is in two phases. The first seven-week phase covers on-the-job instruction and teaches police methods and techniques for dog handling. The second phase of instruction is an 11-week ...

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How much do police dog trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for police dog trainer in the United States is $27.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do police dog trainers make?

Police dog trainers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the department. Advanced trainers with certifications and specialized skills may earn higher salaries, especially in larger or urban agencies.

What does a typical day look like for a Police Dog Trainer?

A typical day for a Police Dog Trainer involves conducting training sessions focused on obedience, scent detection, tracking, and apprehension techniques, usually alongside police officers and their canine partners. Trainers frequently assess each dog's progress, adjust individualized training plans, and document outcomes to ensure both dog and handler meet department standards. The role also involves maintaining training equipment, staying current with industry practices, and occasionally providing demonstrations or advice to law enforcement personnel. Teamwork is essential, as trainers collaborate closely with officers, veterinarians, and other specialists to optimize canine performance in the field.

What is the highest paid job working with dogs?

The highest paid jobs working with dogs typically include specialized roles such as police or military dog trainers, who can earn six-figure salaries with experience and certifications. These roles often require extensive training, knowledge of canine behavior, and working in high-stakes environments like law enforcement or security. Advanced positions in these fields tend to offer the highest compensation for working with dogs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Police Dog Trainer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Dog Trainer, you need comprehensive knowledge of animal behavior, law enforcement procedures, and hands-on experience working with working dogs, often supported by certifications such as from the National Police Canine Association. Familiarity with specialized canine training tools, scent detection equipment, and digital record-keeping systems is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and problem-solving skills are crucial for successful collaboration with law enforcement handlers and adapting training techniques to individual dog needs. These skills ensure effective canine performance, handler safety, and high standards in police K-9 units.

How do you become a dog trainer for police dogs?

To become a police dog trainer, individuals typically need experience in dog training, often starting as a general dog trainer or working with working dogs. Certification from organizations like the National Police Canine Association or attending specialized training programs can enhance qualifications, along with knowledge of police procedures and obedience training techniques.

What is a Police Dog Trainer job?

A Police Dog Trainer is responsible for training dogs to assist law enforcement in tasks such as tracking suspects, detecting narcotics or explosives, and apprehending criminals. They use specialized techniques to teach obedience, agility, and scent detection. Trainers work closely with both the dogs and their handlers to ensure effective communication and performance in the field. This role requires patience, knowledge of canine behavior, and expertise in law enforcement needs.

What kind of dog trainers make the most money?

Experienced police dog trainers who specialize in detection, patrol, or protection training and hold relevant certifications tend to earn higher salaries. Those working for law enforcement agencies or private security firms, often with advanced skills and years of experience, typically make the most money in the field.
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Police Dog Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Dog Trainer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,233 per year, or $27 per hour.

Multi-Purpose Canine Trainer

K2K9 SOLUTIONS LLC

Coronado, CA

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position: Multi-Purpose Canine Trainer

 Location: Coronado, CA
 Job Type: Full-Time
****Must be eligible to obtain a SECRET Security Clearance****

Responsibilities (including but not limited to):

  • Provide recommendations for MPC (Multi-Purpose Canine) and canine puppy physical conditioning program.
  • Provide recommendations for students and MPC Handler initial and sustainment training and evaluation.
  • MPC and Handler training, equipment, and SOP testing and evaluation (T&E) services.
  • Provide canine adult and canine puppy selection recommendations for Government supplied Canine adults and canine puppies.
  • Coordinate requests for resources (training locations, equipment, personnel) to the government.
  • Attend meetings, conferences, and training events, and provide subject matter expert level recommendations to MPC program personnel on the following topics:
    • MPC and canine puppy initial, corrective, and sustainment training methods
    • MPC and canine puppy physical conditioning methods
    • MPC Handler initial, corrective, and sustainment training methods
    • Operational utilization of the MPC Team
    • MPC Team specific equipment
  • Perform standardized MPC and canine puppy training:
  • Initial training to prepare MPCs to join an MPC Team and be utilized during a Handler Course 
  • Initial training to prepare canine puppies for MPC selection.
  • Perform independently or supervise the MPC Handler execution of the MPC and canine
  • puppy physical conditioning program to include rehabilitation.
  • Provide evaluation, appropriate initial stabilization, and transportation for MPC and
  • puppy illness and injury.
  • Provide initial training and sustainment training to all MPC Handler and MPC Teams to perform all NSW MPC Team capabilities.
  • Tactical obedience
  • Explosives detection (on and off leash)
  • Bite work/Patrol (on and off leash)
  • Tracking (urban and rural)
  • Infiltration
  • Rappel (helicopter and structure)
  • Hoist and lower
  • Military and non-standard ground vehicles

Certifications

  • Shall possess, or obtain via completion of a Government-supplied program of instruction, qualifications in the following areas:
    • Rope operations
    • Third Class Swim Qualification
    • NSW MPC medical care
    • Shall possess or obtain via completion of a Government-supplied program of instruction the following certifications within thirty days of contract award:
    • Class C or military vehicle equivalent driver’s license
    • Explosives handling and transportation personnel qualification and certification in accordance with OPNAVINST 8023.24B.
    • All government supplied certifications listed above not previously held must be obtained within the first 6 months of employment.

Training

  • Successful completion of the following courses:
    • Canine handler course
    • Canine handler instructor course
    • Acceptable courses are those recognized by the following organizations:
    • Department of Defense
    • Department of Homeland Security
    • American Working Dog Association
    • North American Police Work Dog Association
    • International Police Work Dog Association

Experience

  • Shall meet at least one of the following categories for experience:

EITHER shall have a minimum of five years’ experience within the past seven years of direct hands-on training of both handlers and canines in all of the following areas:

  • Tactical obedience
  • Explosives detection (on and off leash)
  • Bite work/Patrol (on and off leash)
  • Tracking (urban and rural)

OR shall have a minimum of one years’ experience in the above and at least four years as a canine handler assigned to a USSOCOM unit.

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