Handlers work with client dogs in the breed ring.
Dog handlers are the professionals of the dog show world. Breeders, exhibitors and even judges have other careers with which they support themselves, but, for handlers, conditioning, training and showing purebred dogs is their livelihood. Becoming a professional handler takes many years. Some of the best handlers grew up in families that showed dogs or became junior handlers early in life. While it is possible for an adult to become a dog handler, it is much more difficult than starting toward a handling career in childhood.
Instructions
Learning the Basics
1. Study different breeds and breed groups online, through books and interviews, and in person. Select one breed with which to start.
2. Interview several leading breeders in your selected breed about purchasing a puppy. If necessary, get on one or more waiting lists for upcoming litters.
3. Purchase the best possible puppy that you can afford. Maintain contact with your puppy's breeder.
4. Start lead training and conformation handling practice with your puppy when it is 3 months old. According to the AKC website, conformation classes can be found through local show-giving kennel clubs.
5. Begin showing your puppy in matches and puppy classes. At some shows, a puppy as young as 4 months old can compete in official classes for points. Find a mentor through these events or become involved with the AKC New Exhibitor Mentoring Program.
6. Improve your handling skills while showing your puppy to its championship.
7. Show one or more additional pups of the same (or a similar) breed to championships. Refine your handling skills and learn about movement, conditioning and grooming your breed while doing so.
Becoming a Professional Handler
8. Offer to handle other people's dogs for them while at dog shows. Network with owners and handlers of your breed(s) and other similar breeds in your dogs' breed group(s).
9. Set fees for handling services, including daily handling, grooming, extra classes and boarding. Print fliers, business cards and other promotional material reflecting these fees.
10. Establish a kennel in which to board client dogs. Use the American Kennel Club Registered Handler Program criteria for kennel facilities when building this kennel.
11. Purchase a vehicle, such as a motor home or tow trailer, adequate for transporting and housing show dogs while on the road.
12. Show dogs for seven years for compensation. According to the AKC Registered Handlers Program requirements, it may be necessary to provide documentation as evidence, so keep records of clients, assistants and junior handlers with whom you may have worked.
13. Apply to the Registered Handler Association. A fee, signed letter agreeing to the code of ethics and three letters of reference must accompany the application.
14. Pay balance of dues upon acceptance to the program. Annual dues must be paid each year on or before Dec. 31.
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