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Professional Dog Handler Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

K9 Detection Handler

New Berlin, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

The handler must interpret the dog's signals, maintain its training, and verify alerts with a ... A career with the Rentokil family of companies can be a professional trajectory filled with ...

K9 Detection Handler

New Berlin, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

The handler must interpret the dog's signals, maintain its training, and verify alerts with a ... A career with the Rentokil family of companies can be a professional trajectory filled 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 ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

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 ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

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 ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Whitewater, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

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 ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Madison, WI · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

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 ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

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 ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Racine, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

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 ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Menomonie, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

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 ...

Military Security Officer

Blair, WI

$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

Cambria, WI

$20 - $25.25/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

Milwaukee, WI

$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 ...

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Professional Dog Handler information

See Wisconsin salary details

$9

$18

$24

How much do professional dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional dog handler in Wisconsin is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $18.94 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 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.

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 cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Professional Dog Handler jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Professional Dog Handler job openings:

K9 Detection Handler

Terminix

New Berlin, WI • On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted just now


Rentokil rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 35 rated pest control companies


Job description

Benefits Start Day 1 for Full-Time Colleagues - No Waiting Period!

For more information about our benefits, see below!

We are proud to be a member of the Rentokil family of companies, the global leader in Pest Control and other services across more than 90 countries. We pride ourselves on being a trusted partner to many of the world's leading brands and serve consumer and business customers across multiple industries. We are extremely proud of our legacy of excellence and constantly work to fulfill our mission to "protect people, enhance lives, and preserve the planet."

For this position, you must be able to provide a safe and stable living environment for a dog.

A Canine Handler works with, cares for, and maintains a scent detection bed-bug canine to perform inspections of commercial and residential properties. The handler must interpret the dog's signals, maintain its training, and verify alerts with a manual inspection.


Essential Job Functions:

  • Explain the inspection process to the customer, as well as conduct bed bug demonstrations to potential clients

  • Conduct thorough inspections of the customer's property to properly identify the presence of bed bugs

  • Guide the dog through inspections

  • Ensure the dog is well groomed, well trained, and ready to perform inspections

  • Care for the dog during off work hours, to include but not be limited to: feeding, maintenance training, grooming, exercising, and regular well visits to the veterinarian to keep the dog healthy, safe, and well cared for

  • Able to work both inside and outside in your local climate in company-provided weather gear

  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), like an OSHA-compliant respirator

  • Safely operate a motor vehicle and make sure it and all other equipment is kept clean


What do you need?

There are some things you'll need to have or know to join as a Canine Technician.

  • Clean shaven face- for safety reasons (rebreathers have to be able to seal your face)

  • High school diploma or GED; related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Previous experience working with dogs

  • Successfully meet pre-employment background screen

  • Possess a valid driver's license and undergo motor vehicle driving record check (Company vehicle and gas card provided)

  • Must have off street parking for company vehicle

  • Available to work Monday-Friday and Saturdays as needed

  • Solid reading, writing, and verbal communication skills and the ability to present information in both internal and external settings.

  • Basic math skills - add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. You'll need to be able to follow instructions for mixing on product labels.

  • Licenses/certificates as required by federal, state, and/or local regulations (covered by us)

  • Customer-facing experience preferred

Why Choose Us?
A career with the Rentokil family of companies can be a professional trajectory filled with opportunity. We pride ourselves on being a world-class team that rewards high performance, and we love to promote from within. We offer competitive pay and many of our roles offer performance incentives.
Below you'll find information about some of what we have to offer. All Full-Time Colleagues qualify for the following and Part-Time Colleagues qualify for most benefits after they meet certain criteria.
Click here to read more about our Total Rewards Program which includes:
Professional and Personal Growth

  • Multiple avenues to grow your career

  • Training and development programs available

  • Tuition Reimbursement benefits (for FT Colleagues)


Health and Wellness

  • Full-time colleagues are eligible to begin enrollment immediately upon hire with benefits starting on day 1

  • Health benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance plus much more


Savings and Retirement

  • 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching contributions

Work-Life Balance

  • Vacation days & sick days

  • Company-paid holidays & floating holidays

  • A company mindset that prioritizes health, safety, and flexibility


We are looking for individuals who want to make a difference where our customers live and work. Is that you?

This company is a Drug Free workplace.

Rentokil is committed to complying with all Federal, State, and local laws related to the employment of qualified individuals with disabilities.

California residents click here to review your privacy rights.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

By applying to this job, you agree to receive initial texts from systems used on behalf of Rentokil North America, Inc., possibly including Workday, Loop, and HireVue. These systems utilize text messages to communicate with you throughout the application, interview, and pre-hire processes. You can set your communication preferences or opt out of text messages from each system at any time following the initial message. Message and data rates may apply.


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About Rentokil

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rentokil is the most recognised commercial pest control brand in the world, offering a greater global reach than any other. We provide innovative services and solutions in over 80 countries across 1,800 local branches, employing over 19,000 qualified pest control specialists Our mission is to protect people and enhance lives by providing pest control services that ensure public health and protect the environment through energy efficient and sustainable solutions. We offer a complete range of services for commercial and residential properties, including common pests such as rodents, flies, stored product insects, biting insects and birds to other kinds of wildlife. Driven by customer-centric innovation, our pest control solutions incorporate both preventative and responsive strategies to enhance protection for your business sector through a consistent, continuous pest management programme.

Industry

Environmental quality programs administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reading, PA, US

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