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Professional Dog Handler Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Canine Handler - Join the Rose Family Location: Lansing, MI Compensation: $43,500/yr plus full ... Present self and dog in a professional manner Basic qualifications - required: * Experience with ...

Overview Canine Handler - Join the Rose Family Location: Lansing, MI Compensation: $43,500/yr plus ... Present self and dog in a professional manner Basic qualifications - required: * Experience with ...

Overview Canine Handler - Join the Rose Family Location: Lansing, MI Compensation: $43,500/yr plus ... Present self and dog in a professional manner Basic qualifications - required: * Experience with ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

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Professional Dog Handler information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do professional dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional dog handler in Michigan is $15.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional dog handler?

Professional dog handlers are individuals who specialize in training, grooming, and presenting dogs, often for dog shows or competitions. They possess expertise in canine behavior, breed standards, and handling techniques to showcase a dog's best qualities in the ring. Handlers may work independently or be hired by dog owners or breeders to present dogs at various events. Their responsibilities can also include conditioning dogs, managing their diet and exercise, and traveling to shows. Professional dog handlers play a crucial role in a dog's competitive success and overall well-being.

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

To thrive as a Professional Dog Handler, you need a deep understanding of canine behavior, breed characteristics, and basic animal care, often supported by experience or formal training in animal handling. Familiarity with grooming tools, show equipment, and sometimes certifications from organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) are advantageous. Patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure help handlers work effectively with dogs and their owners. These skills ensure the dogs’ well-being, successful show performances, and positive client relationships.

What are some common challenges faced by professional dog handlers, and how can they be addressed?

Professional dog handlers often encounter challenges such as managing dogs with varying temperaments, handling multiple animals simultaneously, and maintaining consistent training standards. Building strong communication with each dog, staying patient, and using positive reinforcement techniques are crucial for success. Handlers also need to collaborate closely with dog owners, trainers, and veterinarians to ensure each dog's well-being and performance. Continual learning and adapting to each dog's unique needs can help overcome these challenges and contribute to a rewarding career.

What is the difference between Professional Dog Handler vs Dog Trainer?

AspectProfessional Dog HandlerDog Trainer
CredentialsCertifications in handling and obedienceCertifications in training methods and behavior
Work EnvironmentDog shows, competitions, grooming facilitiesTraining centers, private homes, shelters
Employer & IndustryDog show organizations, breeders, handlersPet owners, kennels, shelters, training schools

While both roles involve working closely with dogs, a Professional Dog Handler primarily prepares dogs for shows and competitions, focusing on grooming and presentation. A Dog Trainer, on the other hand, teaches dogs obedience and behavior skills for everyday life. Both roles require certifications and involve working with dogs in different settings, but their main objectives and environments differ significantly.

How do you become a professional dog handler?

To become a professional dog handler, one typically gains experience by working with dogs in training or grooming environments and may pursue certifications from organizations like the American Kennel Club. Developing skills in dog behavior, grooming, and handling techniques is essential, and some handlers start as assistants before advancing to professional roles.

How much do professional dog handlers get paid?

Professional dog handlers typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of events they work at. Salaries can increase with specialization in areas like show handling or training, and many handlers work part-time or freelance schedules.

$43K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Canine Handler – Join the Rose Family

Location: Lansing, MI
Compensation: $43,500/yr plus full benefits & growth opportunities

Rose Pest Solutions, based in Troy, Michigan, is a regional provider of urban pest management programs and services to commercial and residential clients throughout the Great Lakes area, including Lower Michigan to the eastern tip of the Upper Peninsula, Ohio, northern Indiana, northern Kentucky, western Pennsylvania, and the West Virginia Northern Panhandle.

As a full-service pest management provider, Rose Pest Solutions has one of the largest bed bug scent detection programs in the U.S. The company’s in-house Canine Division includes several Canine Handlers and dogs specially trained to detect the scent of bed bugs and viable bed bug eggs. Due to the program’s success, Rose Pest Solutions is looking for a skilled Canine Handler to join its growing team. 

The Canine Handler chosen for this position will benefit from:

  • Salary starts at $43,500 annually
  • Working with dogs every day
  • Paid training and certifications
  • Company vehicle
  • Health/Vision/Dental Insurance
  • 401K w/ company match
  • Uniforms provided
  • Work from home

Houses, cares for, and maintains a trained bed bug scent detection dog that has been assigned by the company. Administers daily training to ensure thorough and accurate inspections. Must be receptive to feedback and learning new dog training skills.

Drives to client locations to perform canine inspections in a variety of buildings, homes, and other environments. Provides friendly, cordial, timely service to clients and works to build strong relationships with them. Works with clients to explain canine inspection results, solve problems and make recommendations for future canine inspections.

Attends regular meetings and functions as a member of the Canine Division team. Works to meet needs of co-workers and clients in a responsive manner. Maintains reports, records, and other documentation using MS Word, MS Excel, through e-mail and SMS using computers, tablets and/or smartphones provided by the company.


Job Requirements

Canine Handler must be able to:

  • Provide a safe area for the dog in a smoke-free environment at the handler’s home
  • Maintain daily care, training and safety for assigned dog
  • Follow company rules and regulations
  • Adhere to OSHA policies and procedures
  • Maintain communication with division supervisor
  • Read, write and communicate verbally in English
  • Complete paperwork accurately
  • Follow all company training and certification requirements
  • Present self and dog in a professional manner

Basic qualifications - required:

  • Experience with canines, preferably at least one year of previous experience with handling, training, care of or other behavior knowledge
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Living in a smoke-free environment
  • High school diploma or equivalent; college education preferred
  • Able to work before 8 AM, after 5 PM, and/or on weekends
  • Valid motor vehicle operator’s license and driving history that meets company requirements
  • Available to travel overnight or multiple nights when needed
  • Able to provide safe housing for assigned dog
  • Obtain and maintain scent detection certification with assigned dog
  • Obtain and maintain State Pesticide Application Certification
  • Pass required physical and security background checks

Bio-Serv companies are proud to be EOE

rosepestsolutions+en@agents.icims.com

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