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Professional Dog Handler Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lazy Dog Restaurants LLC

Cook

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

A family that supports YOUR personal and professional growth We are looking for Full- Service Line ... Food Handlers Card (California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, Texas, Virginia) Join Lazy Dog ...

Lazy Dog Restaurants LLC

Cook

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

A family that supports YOUR personal and professional growth We are looking for Full- Service Line ... Food Handlers Card (California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, Texas, Virginia) Join Lazy Dog ...

Lazy Dog Restaurants LLC

Server

Chantilly, VA · On-site

A family that supports YOUR personal and professional growth While Serving You're Good At ... Food Handlers Card (California, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, Texas, Virginia) Join Lazy Dog and be ...

Lazy Dog Restaurants LLC

Server

Fairfax, VA · On-site

A family that supports YOUR personal and professional growth While Serving You're Good At ... You demonstrate Lazy Dog Restaurant service standards. * You understand the proper state and ...

Tyson And Friends Llc

K9 Shift Lead

Centreville, VA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

... K9 Handler team during their shift while ensuring the safety, care, and well-being of all dogs ... Calm, confident, and professional under pressure * Reliable, punctual, and responsible * Strong ...

Lazy Dog Restaurants LLC

Dishwasher

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

A family that supports YOUR personal and professional growth Tell us if this sounds like YOU! * You ... Food Handlers Card (California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, Texas, Virginia) Join Lazy Dog ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Parksley, VA

$17 - $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 ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Damascus, VA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/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 ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Ashburn, VA

$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 ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Norton, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $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 ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Glenvar, VA

$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 ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Ashland, VA

$16.50 - $20.75/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 ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Saluda, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/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 ...

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All JobsProfessional Dog Handler JobsProfessional Dog Handler Jobs in Virginia

Professional Dog Handler information

See Virginia salary details

$9

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$24

How much do professional dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional dog handler in Virginia is $17.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.61 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.
Professional Dog Handler jobs near you

MEMORY SUPPORT RECREATION COORDINATOR

Covenant Woods

Mechanicsville, VA • On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Covenant Woods in Hanover VA, a Continued Care Retirement Community, is a multi-faceted organization which allows for unparalleled growth for our employees. Covenant Woods provides a truly unique experience - not only for the residents who call Covenant Woods home, but for our team of dedicated, compassionate, and talented employees who choose to make Covenant Woods their second home.
Covenant Woods is seeking to hire a Full -Time, Memory Support Recreation Coordinator. The coordinator is primarily responsible for the development, organization, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of comprehensive therapeutic recreation services and programs in a secure Memory Support Neighborhood. They ensure there is an appropriate balance of structured programming to meet the cognitive, physical, social, emotional, sensory, and spiritual needs of residents living with dementia, while maintaining compliance with Department of Social Services. They will also serve as primary support dog handler.
SOME JOB SPECIFICATIONS:
  • Active CTRS certification, ACP, or relevant experience in activities programming with memory-impaired individuals required.
  • Minimum of two years' experience with older adults and/or in a healthcare setting preferred.
  • Dementia care experience required.
  • College degree preferred.
  • Must be able to coach others in dementia programing.
  • Ability to educate families and staff on dementia.
  • Competent in organizational and time management skills.
  • Demonstrates good judgment, problem solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Demonstration of proficiency in computer skills, Microsoft 365 (Windows, Outlook, Excel, and the ability to learn new applications
  • Work requires standing and walking for all or most of the workday.

Covenant Woods recognizes that our continued success is thanks to our employees. Our commitment is to offer employees a great work environment with competitive pay, great benefits and perks. In addition to pay, Covenant Woods's total compensation includes health and wellness plans, meal perks and paid time-off as well as an assortment of other benefits that aim to increase financial security, offer professional development, and promote a healthy, fulfilling life.

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