A professional handler is a person qualified by virtue of their experience and ability to show another's dog and for a fee. A true professional abides by a code of ethics, and is educated and experienced in the sport of showing dogs. They devote much of their time to the expert care, conditioning and exhibiting of the purebred show dog. The professional handler maintains appropriate kennel facilities, and vehicles equipped for safely transporting client dogs.

When considering using a professional handler, here are a few thoughts to keep in mind:

1. The professional handler will evaluate your dog's potential as a show dog.

2. The professional handler will educate you in areas of conditioning, training and grooming in order to make them competitive in the conformation ring.

3. The professional handler can devote the time required to condition you dog both mentally and physically to take on the stamina required for shows.

4. The professional handler will use their experience to present your dog to the best of its advantage.

5. The professional handler has the ability to exhibit your dog in a wide geographic area, taking advantage of shows where the dog can best perform and win.

6. The professional handler can earn a championship on the dog in less time and expense than the owner-handler.

When choosing a professional handler, ask these questions:

1. Inquire about the kennel facilities. Generally speaking, the kennel should have permanent housing indoors with room enough for the dog to walk around without being cramped. There should be exercise areas outdoors. Grooming areas should be clean; and proper feeding and training equipment available.

2. Ask for a personal inspection of the kennel, facilities, and vehicle in which your dog will travel to shows with the handler

3. Ask who will maintain control over your dog when the handler is not available

4. Ask about your dog's daily routine, veterinary care, and how the dog will be cared for at the shows

A professional handler will have a fully equipped vehicle with crates, exercise pens, grooming, feeding and watering equipment to provide care in all types of weather while at a show. Make it a point to observe the handler's area at indoor and outdoor shows.

Professional handlers are a valuable source of knowledge in the sport of purebred dogs. Not only are their services available to clients, but also they are in demand by kennel clubs to judge match and sweepstake events, and organizing grooming and parking at dog shows. Many handlers offer lectures on a variety of topics to assist in educating the general public on animal welfare issues.

The largest organized professional handler group in the United States governed by a Code of Ethics is the Professional Handlers' Association (PHA).

To familiarize themselves with the Association's Code of Ethics and regulations, and those of the American Kennel Club.

To abide with the Code, and safeguard the reputation of the PHA to the best of their ability. 

To not accept dogs from another member's client without prior and proper notification.

To conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times. To be courteous and demonstrate good sportsmanship when showing dogs no matter what the outcome may be.

To refrain from publicly berating or belittling any judge or judge's decision.

To refrain from malicious criticism or mean-spirited discussion on the handling ability of others, or the quality of the dog being exhibited.

To promote good client relations and conduct business in a professional and ethical manner. To promptly notify clients of show results and furnish all ribbons and trophies in a timely manner.

To engage in on-going education and strive for continuous improvement in the sport of showing dogs. To provide sufficient and necessary equipment to show dogs; and to properly care for the dogs entrusted to them.

To maintain a high-level degree of professional ethics and fully support the Mission, Goals and Objectives and rules of the PHA. Pledge to conduct themselves in a manner setting them apart from others and that casts a favorable light on the Association.

To enter into a written agreement and understanding with all clients describing responsibilities and expectations of both the client and handler. To provide a fair and just fee schedule for services. To provide an itemized and timely billing statement for fees owed. To know that in the absence of a written agreement and understanding that the Board of Directors will not intervene in dispute resolution.

To agree to be subject to Zone and Board of Directors hearings, arbitrations, and judgments for purposes of dispute or rule violation resolution. To fully accept as final the decision of the Board of Directors in hearings without appeal or further action.

To agree to wear the emblem of the Association at dog shows and other dog-related events.

Handler, Dog Show, Dog Show Dog, Dog Handler,
Ellen Perry is an all breed dog handler for AKC dog shows