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Professional Dog Handler Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Military Security Officer

Marble, MN

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

East Bethel, MN

$17.50 - $22/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Claremont, MN

$17 - $21.50/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Avon, MN

$18.25 - $23/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Moundsview, MN

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Morristown, MN

$18 - $22.75/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Appleton, MN

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Delano, MN

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Stillwater, MN

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Brooklyn Park, MN

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Isanti, MN

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Minneapolis, MN

$17.50 - $22/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Chaska, MN

$18.75 - $23.75/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Windom, MN

$17.25 - $22/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Henning, MN

$17.25 - $22/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

Military Security Officer

Cosmos, MN

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

... professionalism are essential; frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

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Showing results 1-20

Professional Dog Handler information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do professional dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional dog handler in Minnesota is $17.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $18.37 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.

Pet Therapy Volunteer - Hospice (Unpaid)

Home Health Care, Inc.

Minneapolis, MN

$1 - $2/hr

Part-time, Per diem

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Therapy Dog & Handler Hospice Team

Organization: Superior Hospice

Service Area: Twin Cities Metro & Surrounding Counties

Volunteer Type: Part-Time / Per Diem – Unpaid

To Apply: Reach out to Paige Lubiani at paige.lubiani@superiorhospice.net with your information and your reason for wanting to join our mission.

Help change lives with every tail wag. Superior Hospice is inviting volunteer teams—human and certified therapy dog—to support our patients through meaningful visits. This is a unique opportunity to witness the healing power of your presence and the unconditional love only animals can provide.

As a Volunteer Team, You Will:

  • Visit individuals receiving hospice care to reduce anxiety, sadness, and isolation
  • Bring warmth and familiarity into unfamiliar or clinical environments
  • Support staff by creating positive moments of joy and connection
  • Keep records of each visit for volunteer coordination and care notes
  • Maintain high safety, hygiene, and professional standards at all times

Ideal Volunteers:

  • Own a dog with current therapy animal certification
  • Are comfortable with varied environments and emotional settings
  • Want to be part of a thoughtful, patient-centered care team
  • Are reliable, attentive, and passionate about animal-assisted interventions

What You’ll Receive:

  • Hospice volunteer and pet therapy training
  • Mileage reimbursement for travel to patient visits (if applicable)
  • A rewarding volunteer experience that blends compassion, connection, and purpose

Join our growing hospice family and be part of something truly impactful—for you, for your pet, and for those we serve.