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Professional Dog Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Dog Stop Richmond (TDS-0037)

Canine Handler

Richmond, VA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

Position Summary The Canine Handler is responsible for the supervision, care, safety, and well ... Represent The Dog Stop ® with professionalism at all times. Team Responsibilities * Assist fellow ...

Heartshare

Canine Handler

Queens, NY · On-site

$24.72 - $27.47/hr

This is a hands-on, full-time role for a therapy dog handler who already owns and works with a ... Must maintain ongoing professional development through coursework, mentorship, or shadowing.

Heartshare

Canine Handler

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$24.72 - $27.47/hr

This is a hands-on, full-time role for a therapy dog handler who already owns and works with a ... Must maintain ongoing professional development through coursework, mentorship, or shadowing.

Kiddy K9 Klub Corporation

Be Seen First

Part Time Canine Handler

Kent, WA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Canine Handler - Part-Time - Potential to Transition to Full-Time Job Summary At The Dog Stop Kent ... Build practical experience in professional dog care and behavior management. * Be part of a company ...

Kiddy K9 Klub Corporation

Be Seen First

Part Time Canine Handler

Kent, WA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Canine Handler - Part-Time - Potential to Transition to Full-Time Job Summary At The Dog Stop Kent ... Build practical experience in professional dog care and behavior management. * Be part of a company ...

The Dog Stop Of Metairie

Canine Companion

Metairie, LA · On-site

$9 - $12/hr

If physical conflict does occur it is up to the handler to intervene and end the confrontation. First aid should also be applied (if needed) to hold the dogs over until they can receive professional ...

Best Friends Fur Ever

Dog Care Professionals 8-1

Joppa, MD · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

About Us Best Friends Fur-Ever provides professional dog daycare, boarding, and grooming services ... Position Overview We are seeking dependable, energetic, and compassionate Dog Handlers to join our ...

Western Veterinary Partners

Dog Trainer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$15/hr

Create a safe, engaging, and supportive learning environment for dogs and handlers * Assist with ... Uniform allowance Minimum Qualifications: * 2+ years of professional dog training experience

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How much do professional dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional dog handler in the United States is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog handler's salary?

The salary of a professional dog handler varies based on experience, location, and specialization, typically ranging from $25,000 to $60,000 annually. Experienced handlers working in competitive events, security, or training may earn higher wages, especially with additional certifications and skills in obedience training or detection work.

What are professional dog handlers?

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.

How do you become a professional dog handler?

To become a professional dog handler, individuals typically gain experience working with dogs, often through volunteering or employment at kennels, grooming salons, or training facilities. Many handlers pursue certifications from organizations like the American Kennel Club or the International Professional Groomers Association and develop skills in grooming, training, and dog behavior. Building a strong reputation and gaining practical experience are essential steps in establishing a career as a professional dog handler.

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 is the highest paid job working with dogs?

The highest paid jobs working with dogs typically include professional dog trainers, especially those specializing in training service or therapy dogs, and canine behavior consultants. These roles often require advanced certifications, experience, and sometimes working with high-profile clients or organizations, leading to higher salaries compared to standard pet care roles.

How much money do dog show handlers make?

Professional dog handlers typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, reputation, and the number of shows they attend. Income can vary widely, with top handlers earning more through client fees, commissions, and sponsorships, especially when handling high-profile or champion dogs.
What cities are hiring for Professional Dog Handler jobs? Cities with the most Professional Dog Handler job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Handler jobs? The most popular types of Dog Handler jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Dog Handler jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Dog Handler jobs include:
Professional Dog Handler jobs near you
Clinical Facility Dog Handler - Child Life

Clinical Facility Dog Handler - Child Life

Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Join Cleveland Clinic's Main Campus where research and surgery are advanced, technology is leading-edge, patient care is world class and caregivers are family. Here, you will work alongside a passionate and dedicated team, receive endless support and appreciation, and build a rewarding career with one of the most respected healthcare organizations in the world.

As a Facility Dog Handler, you will utilize goal-directed Animal-Assisted Therapy interventions to support patients, their families and Cleveland Clinic caregivers with various healthcare needs. With compassion and empathy, you will provide emotional, behavioral, receptive/expressive, cognitive and physical support, using the Facility Dog to facilitate a fun way to engage patients in their treatment throughout Northeast Ohio. This role offers an excellent opportunity to not only enhance the continuum of care but also grow your skills in behavioral health, animal handling and direct patient interactions.

A caregiver in this position works days from 8:00AM - 4:30PM.

A caregiver who excels in this role will:

  • Utilize the facility dog to provide therapeutic interventions in a variety of clinical settings, including the inpatient units and outpatient areas.
  • Function as a key member of the healthcare team, communicating all relevant developmental and psychosocial information to other team members via charting, participation in team meetings, etc.
  • Participate in the planning and implementation of special events and programming that involve the facility dog.
  • Develop and assist with projects addressing the needs of patients and families in line with the goals of the facility dog program and are identified by the Child Life, Therapy Services, and/or other teams.
  • Develop and implement educational seminars that address psychosocial needs and challenges of hospitalization and the clinical benefits of utilizing a facility dog.
  • Maintain all requirements for dog handling set out by the placement facility dog organization regarding weight management, vet care, home environment, grooming, recurrent teaching and reporting.
  • Assess the needs of the dog throughout the work shift to provide adequate rest and down time.
  • Maintain program statistics to assess and evaluate the quality of programming and to make necessary adjustments.
  • Facilitate animal care and activities in a manner that ensures cleanliness and prevention of infection.
  • Document interactions and program validity accurately in medical and other records as needed.
  • Collaborate with clinical staff to create opportunities for the facility dog to be included in applicable research.
  • Attend approved events with the facility dog.
  • Assess the developmental, social and physical needs of assigned population and provide appropriate interventions, such as preparations and therapeutic play integrating the facility dog.
  • Provide supervision to volunteers, students and interns.
  • Participate in individual and clinical group supervision.
  • Facilitate patient and parent adjustment to the healthcare environment utilizing the facility dog as appropriate.
  • Assume responsibility and accountability for assigned administrative tasks.
  • Contribute to planning and control processes of the budget by participating in the development and maintenance of inventory.

Minimum qualifications for the ideal future caregiver include:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Child Life, Recreational Therapy, Child Development or a related field
  • Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) Certification through the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation OR active Child Life Certification (CCLS) through the Association of Child Life Professionals
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification through the American Heart Association (AHA) certification within 90 days of hire
  • Completion of required training with certification from the Facility Dog Training Placement Organization
  • Comfort working with children and animals

Preferred qualifications for the ideal future caregiver include:

  • Five years of experience as a Certified Child Life Specialist or Recreational Therapist in a pediatric healthcare setting
  • Specialist in a pediatric healthcare setting

Our caregivers continue to create the best outcomes for our patients across each of our facilities. Click the link and see how we're dedicated to providing what matters most to you: https://jobs.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-2/

Physical Requirements:

  • Requires full range of body motion including but not limited to handling and lifting patients, handling a facility dog, manual and finger dexterity, and eye-hand coordination.
  • Requires standing and walking for extended periods of time.
  • Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range.
  • Requires working under stressful conditions and irregular hours. Exposure to communicable diseases and/or body fluids.
  • Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work

Personal Protective Equipment:

  • Follows Standard Precautions using personal protective equipment as required for procedures

Pay Range

Minimum Annual Salary: $43,200.00

Maximum Annual Salary: $65,880.00

The pay range displayed on this job posting reflects the anticipated range for new hires. A successful candidate's actual compensation will be determined after taking factors into consideration such as the candidate's work history, experience, skill set and education. The pay range displayed does not include any applicable pay practices (e.g., shift differentials, overtime, etc.). The pay range does not include the value of Cleveland Clinic's benefits package (e.g., healthcare, dental and vision benefits, retirement savings account contributions, etc.).

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