NEC
P05A
Dog Handler
A Navy Enlisted Classification: a skill designation sailors hold in addition to their rating.
Description
Performs specialized duties in law enforcement, physical security, antiterrorism operations and detection of explosives and/or illicit drugs in the military community utilizing assigned military working dog. Responsible for the care, welfare and continuous training of assigned dog to ensure physical condition and proficiency are maintained. Maintains administrative records associated with the use and maintenance of assigned military working dog.
Core Skills
- working dog handling
- explosive detection
- narcotics detection
- canine conditioning
- obedience training
- patrol support
- physical security
- animal health monitoring
- kennel recordkeeping
Common Certifications
- National Police Canine Association Certification
- International Police Working Dog Association Certification
- American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
- FEMA Incident Command System Courses
- State Private Security Officer License
Civilian Career Paths
- LAW ENFORCEMENT
- PHYSICAL SECURITY
- PRIVATE SECURITY
- VETERINARY
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
- American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
- State Private Security Officer License
- FEMA ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800
Career Growth
- National Police Canine Association Certification
- International Police Working Dog Association Certification
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
- Certified Protection Professional (CPP)
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Data sourced from official Navy publications and public military occupational references. Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.