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Military dog handlers are specialized police officers who work specifically with military working dogs on reconnaissance operations, bomb detection missions, and other assignments that require the support of a trained dog. Military dog handler training takes place at military police schools and at the Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. After completing training, aspiring handlers have to pass a certification exam in order to work with dogs. Completion of high school and enlistment in the military are also required. Read on for more information on how to become a military dog handler.
Essential Information
Military dog handlers use specially trained dogs to maintain the security of military bases and personnel. Some handlers work with dogs that are trained to find drugs and other contraband. Other handlers take dogs into active war zones to try and find hidden explosive devices. Enlisted soldiers and officers can become military dog handlers, provided they meet physical requirements and have completed mandatory training programs. All divisions of the military need animal support, so in addition to working for the army, it is also possible to become an Air Force dog handler or a Navy dog handler.
| Required Education | High school diploma or GED required to join the military |
| Other Requirements | Specialized training at military police school |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029) | 13% (for animal trainers)* |
| Average Salary (2019) | $48,140 (for animal trainers in local governments)* |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Military Dog Handler Job Duties
Military dog handlers work with military working dogs, instructing the animals to find various items, including explosive devices, drugs, and people. When a dog is searching for an item, the handler must watch the dog for signals that it has found something. For example, some dogs are trained to sit when they find one item or lie down when they find another. Handlers are expected to reward the dog for obedient behavior to reinforce good habits.
Many military dog handlers work at perimeter checkpoints. They instruct the dogs to search vehicles and any personnel that pass through the checkpoints. Dog handler teams also walk military base perimeters looking for suspicious activities. Handlers may use their dogs to verify the safety of new locations, which can involve the handler guiding the dog on a search to find potential hazards.
Key Skills Needed
To be a military working dog handler, you first and foremost need plenty of hands-on experience with animals and a high level of patience and meticulousness. It is important to have a firm and confident manner, balanced with real love and compassion for dogs. Other army dog handler requirements include:
- Excellent physical fitness and quick reflexes
- Problem-solving skills
- An ability to work well under pressure
- An in-depth understanding of animal behaviors
Military Working Dog Handler Requirements
Information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that those who want to become military dog handlers must first join the military (www.bls.gov). Enlisting requirements include being at least 18 years old, passing a physical and completing the military aptitude test. Accepted applicants must sign a contract of service before participating in a training program, which lasts 6-13 weeks depending on the military branch. To be an Army dog handler it is also necessary to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test and pass with a score of at least 91%.
While it does not report specifically on military dog handlers, the BLS stated that employment growth for animal trainers was projected to be 13% between 2019-2029. The BLS also reports that animal trainers in local governments earned an average salary of $48,140 as of May 2019.
Military Police School
After completing basic training, enlisted soldiers and officers can apply to military police school. There are strict eligibility requirements for enrolling in military police school, including height and weight restrictions, education requirements and clearing a background check. Military police school programs take 19 weeks to complete and cover courses such as military and civil law, policing strategies, reporting procedures and civilian policing. Advanced courses are available for more specialized skills, such as military animal training.
Dog Handler Training
Soldiers who are unable to take specialized dog handling coursework while in the police school program may consider volunteering for additional training. Upon acceptance into the dog handler program, soldiers must complete a basic dog handling training program at the Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. After completing training, handlers must also pass additional certification testing to prove that each handler can guide a military working dog and accurately read its responses. Dog handler teams must be recertified yearly.
A military police dog handler works with a trained dog for many purposes, such as detecting explosives or drugs, or for use at manned checkpoints to sniff for suspicious items. They must renew their certification annually, and need to be enlisted in the military with proper animal training. Job growth for animal trainers, including those who work with military dogs, is expected to rise much faster than average through the year 2029.
After the Military
The skills and experience you gain from working as an army dog handler can prepare you for a wide range of other jobs beyond the military. For example, dog handlers can be employed by police departments, airport security, and private detective agencies. Dog handlers are also needed in the entertainment industry, as animals always need to be accompanied by a trained professional when making appearances on film and TV.