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Dog handlers must have a thorough understanding of the breed they work with, but no specific education or certification is required. Joining professional organizations can provide networking opportunities and apprenticeship programs. Handlers must also have appropriate travel accommodations and a strong relationship with a veterinarian. Understanding a breed’s strengths and weaknesses is crucial for success.
There are several different types of dog handlers, but they all share one thing in common. If an individual is interested in professionally handling show dogs, police dogs, customs dogs, or dogs that have been trained for another specialty, a trainer must have a thorough understanding of the breed. Much of what a dog trainer learns is self-taught. While there are professional associations to join, no dog handling specialty requires specific education, certification, or licensing.
Two membership groups, the Professional Handlers’ Association and the American Kennel Club Registered Handlers Program, have established their own sets of requirements for members. These requirements include kennel condition expectations as well as a code of ethics that must be followed by any member who wants to become a dog trainer. Becoming a member of one of these organizations is often the first step in qualifying for their dog grooming apprenticeship programs. While joining a professional organization provides networking opportunities and reassures future clients that the trainer takes this job seriously, it is possible to become a dog trainer without joining these associations.
Deciding to become a dog trainer can mean a lot of traveling. Handlers who work exclusively with show dogs often spend days or weeks on the road, moving from show to show. A trainer with a well-established career can handle multiple dogs. Having a vehicle to transport properly installed, strong travel crates is essential. The traveling van or truck also needs enough space for exercise pens where the dogs will be kept upon arrival.
Dog trainers must provide more than appropriate travel accommodations for dogs. Clean, comfortable crates and dog runs in a home facility are also important. Handlers with membership in one or more associations must comply with the organizations onboarding requirements.
In order to become a dog trainer, it is also important to have a strong professional relationship with a veterinarian who will be caring for a sick client at home. While on the road, a handler may be needed to deal with a medical emergency or give medication. Handlers need to have a good basic understanding of the types of diseases a given breed is susceptible to, as well as dealing with injuries when a veterinarian is not immediately available.
Of course, handlers must also have a deep understanding and appreciation of the specific breed or breeds they are working with. It is important to know an animal’s strengths and weaknesses, how to groom a particular breed, and how to show a particular dog at a show. This knowledge can also help a handler protect their professional reputation by avoiding animals that will not show or perform well.
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