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Working Dog Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army

Working Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

S. Army as a Working Dog Handler might be right for you. Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers are responsible for the care and training of his or her service dog, which contributes to combat ...

U.S. Army

Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

S. Army as a Working Dog Handler might be right for you. Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers are responsible for the care and training of his or her service dog, which contributes to combat ...

Run My Dog, LLC

Dog Walker - Pet Sitter

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Company Description Run My Dog Do you love animals? Do you prefer to work independently? Enjoy the ... Be able to tolerate working in extreme (hot/cold) weather * Have a working smartphone and mobile ...

Dogtopia

Dog Bather

Alexandria, VA

$15 - $18.43/hr

You enjoy working in a collaborative harmonious teamwork environment. *If you are seeing yourself in these words, we'd love to talk to you about our Dog Bather role. ABOUT US: We're Dogtopia and we ...

Dogtopia

Dog Groomer

Alexandria, VA

$4.0K/mo

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services, has an immediate opening ... You enjoy working in a collaborative, harmonious team environment. *If you are seeing yourself in ...

Dogtopia

Dog Groomer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$4.0K/mo

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services, has an immediate opening ... You enjoy working in a collaborative, harmonious team environment. *If you are seeing yourself in ...

Dogtopia

Dog Bather

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$15 - $18.43/hr

You enjoy working in a collaborative harmonious teamwork environment. *If you are seeing yourself in these words, we'd love to talk to you about our Dog Bather role. ABOUT US: We're Dogtopia and we ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Comforted Canine

Dog Sitter

Arlington, VA · On-site

$25/hr

Professional Pet Sitter & Dog Walker- Arlington, VA Area Do you love dogs (or cats) and enjoy working independently? The Comforted Kitty is looking for reliable, responsible pet lovers to provide in ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$70K/yr

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Day to day requirements: -Handling and training small and large breeds from puppy to adult. -Working with dogs needing behavior modification from anxiety to aggression. -Interacting with the public ...

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Working Dog information

How to work with dogs as a career?

Working with dogs as a career often involves roles such as dog trainer, handler, or behaviorist, requiring knowledge of canine behavior, training techniques, and sometimes certifications. Experience with animals, physical fitness, patience, and good communication skills are essential, and many positions involve working outdoors or in kennels. Continuing education and specialized certifications can enhance job prospects in this field.

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

Handlers of professional working dogs, such as those in law enforcement, search and rescue, or service roles, often encounter challenges like building strong handler-dog communication, maintaining the dog's motivation and focus, and ensuring their well-being in demanding environments. Addressing these challenges involves consistent training, positive reinforcement techniques, and regular health check-ups for the dog. Handlers also benefit from ongoing professional development to stay updated on best practices and to foster a deep, trusting partnership with their canine colleague.

What is the 7 7 7 rule with dogs?

The 7 7 7 rule in working dog training refers to a guideline where a dog should be exposed to 7 different environments, 7 new people, and 7 different objects or stimuli each week to promote socialization and adaptability. This helps ensure the working dog remains confident and well-adjusted in various situations, which is essential for roles like search and rescue, police work, or service tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Working Dog, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Working Dog, strong obedience, physical fitness, and specialized training for tasks such as detection, herding, or service are essential, typically supported by breed suitability and certification from recognized organizations. Mastery of specific training tools, scent detection systems, or harnesses is often required depending on the working role. High levels of focus, adaptability, and a calm temperament set exceptional working dogs apart. These skills and qualities ensure that working dogs can reliably and safely perform critical tasks that support humans in various professional environments.

What jobs pay well working with dogs?

Working dog jobs that tend to pay well include police or military K-9 handlers, search and rescue dog trainers, and detection dog handlers, often requiring specialized training and certifications. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to the skills, responsibility, and physical demands involved, especially in law enforcement or security settings.

Do working dogs get paid?

Working dogs themselves do not receive payment, as they are animals performing tasks under the direction of their handlers. However, handlers, trainers, or organizations employing working dogs are typically paid for their services, training, and care. Compensation depends on the job, organization, and whether the handler is a professional or volunteer.

What are working dogs?

Working dogs are specially trained canines that perform tasks to assist humans. These tasks can include herding livestock, assisting people with disabilities, searching for missing persons, detecting drugs or explosives, and providing protection or security. Breeds commonly used as working dogs include German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Belgian Malinois. Their intelligence, strength, and trainability make them well-suited for demanding jobs. Working dogs require specialized training and ongoing care to ensure they can perform their duties effectively.

What is the difference between Working Dog vs Security Guard?

AspectWorking DogSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsTraining certifications, obedience and specialized skillsSecurity license, background check
Work EnvironmentOutdoor and indoor, active, often in patrols or search tasksIndoor/outdoor, stationary or patrol duties
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement, private security, militaryPrivate security firms, corporate, residential
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, training, and capabilitiesJob requirements, licensing, duties

Working dogs are specially trained animals used in law enforcement, military, or search and rescue, requiring specific certifications and active work environments. Security guards are human personnel responsible for surveillance and protection, often needing security licenses. While both roles focus on safety, working dogs perform physical tasks with specialized training, whereas security guards provide human oversight and monitoring.

What are popular job titles related to Working Dog jobs in Virginia? For Working Dog jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Working Dog jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Working Dog jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Working Dog jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Working Dog job openings:
Working Dog jobs near you
Infographic showing various Working Dog job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Working Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Working Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

U.S. Army

Suffolk, VA • On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

United States Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 488 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 50 rated military and defense

Job description

If you're interested in working with animals or law enforcement as a profession, being a Soldier in the U.S. Army as a Working Dog Handler might be right for you.  
Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers are responsible for the care and training of his or her service dog, which contributes to combat operations abroad and installation security at home by providing target odor detection (explosive/drug). Service dogs, generally seen as a non-lethal option for neutralizing a threat, also serve as a psychological deterrent during law enforcement operations. 
Job Duties:
  • Patrol Drug Detector Dog (PDDD) handler
  • Patrol Explosive Detector Dog (PEDD) handler
  • Health and Welfare searches
  • Law and Order operations
  • Installation Force Protection and Law and Order support
  • VIP support
  • Customs support

Requirements:
Candidates must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), which is a series of tests that helps the Army understand your strengths and identify which Army job(s) fit your talents.
Training:
Job training for Military Working Dog handlers requires 17 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT) on how to care for, handle and train a Military Working Dog (MWD). The training is in two phases. The first seven-week phase covers on-the-job instruction and teaches police methods and techniques for dog handling. The second phase of instruction is an 11-week course that provides basic instructions on the application of Military Working Dog utilization and employment capabilities. Phase II instructs in basic obedience, controlled aggression, first aid, principles of conditioning, building searches, scouting, detection, and daily care and grooming of assigned MWD.
Handlers will also learn other basic skills, including:
  • Basic use of firearms
  • Military/civil laws and jurisdiction 
  • Arrest and restraint of suspects
  • Other specialized dog handling techniques

Helpful Skills:
  • Ability to understand conditioning behaviors in training dogs
  • Ability to make quick decisions
  • Patience
  • Ability to interact with people

Future Civilian Careers:
The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career with federal, state and local law enforcement. Many of the jobs skills you learn will also help you to perform civilian jobs that involve working with animals, and general management positions.
This opportunity comes with:
  • Competitive pay.
  • Free medical care.
  • Free housing and leadership development.
  • You are also afforded the opportunity of up to $86,000 for college.

Our team is willing to help all who meet or can meet, our criteria, which includes passing the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
 
Eligibility:
  • Must have an interest in joining the Army.
  • 17 to 34 years old.
  • Must be able to meet height/weight requirements *See calculator below. (https://www.goarmy.com/soldier-life/fitness-and-nutrition/components-of-fitness/body-composition.html).
  • No tattoos on hands, face, or above the neck (ring tattoos are acceptable).
  • No history of a felony-level offense or DUI.
  • No major medical procedures that would prohibit you from service (please feel free to ask specific questions).
 
Interested?
  • Reply to this job post ***AND***
  • Text OB92 to GOARMY ***or*** visit (https://www.goarmy.com/info/send1/?iom=OB92-AUTO-ACNP-BR-XXX-XX-XXX-MO-XX-X-BRC).

What United States Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About US Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

Social media

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