Dog Handler: Public and Private Sectors

The dog handler is responsible for their companion and must therefore control them at all times to avoid any risk of accidents regardless of where they are located. Thus, they must remain vigilant and work continuously to ensure the proper training of their dog. Training sessions are conducted in different ways depending on the sector in which they work, as well as according to their activities.

Outside of missions, the handler ensures the dog's fitness and good health. Depending on the activity you choose, you may remain standing for several hours while working with very irregular schedules and missions on holidays and weekends.

Whether in the public or private sector, it is very likely that you will be required to work night shifts.

Summary:

• The work of the dog handler in the private sector
• The work of the dog handler in the public sector
• What is the difference?

To work in security, the candidate must complete a nine-month training program to obtain the practical certificate as a canine security agent. Additionally, they also have the option to specialize by obtaining a CAP in prevention and security agent over a 24-month period.

In the private sector, the dog handler works as a security agent. They monitor and secure their workplace with the help of the dog, which adds an additional difficulty for potential thieves. It is deterrent and provides an additional sense of security for passersby. Working hours can be during the day or night, depending on the type and location of missions. They can be employed by a security agency or work independently.

Each profession in the public sector has its own recruitment process and access requirements :

• Working within the gendarmerie requires 5 years of experience;
• To work in the national police, a minimum of 3 years of experience and passing the peace officer exam are required;
• Activity at the heart of customs requires validation of the customs controller or customs enforcement agent exam;
• To join the air force as a dog handler, a high school diploma level is sufficient;
• To work with the fire department, you must be a professional firefighter and complete training to become a canine unit driver;

Following integration into one of these services, a training period will be necessary. The number of positions to be filled annually remains quite limited nonetheless.

Working as a dog handler will be more accessible in the private sector. You can be employed by a company for guard duty and building surveillance or even during sporting events.

In the public sector, you must pass competitive exams as well as complete training programs. This aspect is more difficult to access and jobs are limited. Moreover, numerous relocations are to be expected depending on the missions assigned to you.