Dog Handler (Customs)
どっぐはんどらー（ぜいかん）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Security and Public Safety Occupations
- Middle : Other Public Safety Occupations
- Minor : Other Public Safety Occupations
Summary
A specialist at customs who handles detection dogs to detect and prevent illegal items such as narcotics and explosives through inspections of passengers and cargo.
Description
A Dog Handler (Customs) is a specialist assigned to customs who handles detection dogs that detect smuggled items such as narcotics, explosives, agricultural products, and counterfeit branded goods. They build trust with the dogs on a daily basis, conduct training, and inspect passengers' baggage and cargo at airports, seaports, and border checkpoints. They develop training plans to maintain and enhance the dogs' olfactory abilities, evaluate and adjust implementation status. Additionally, when suspicious cargo is found, they collaborate with relevant departments to take appropriate measures and ensure border security.
Future Outlook
With the increase in international logistics and strengthened counter-terrorism measures, the importance of inspections using detection dogs will continue to grow. Amid a declining population and labor shortages, the demand for handlers with specialized training is expected to be maintained and expanded.
Personality Traits
Calm and Composed / Excellent Observation Skills / Good Team Player / Likes Animals / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Indoor and Outdoor Work / Public Agency Employment / Shift Work / Transfers
Career Path
Handler Apprentice → Dog Handler → Senior Handler → Team Leader → Training Officer → Manager
Required Skills
Basic First Aid Knowledge / Customs Law Knowledge / Detection Dog Training / Dog Handling / Safety and Health Management
Recommended Skills
Animal Behavior Studies / Communication Skills (Foreign Languages) / Emergency Life-Saving Skills / IT Skills (Data Management)
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because quick adaptation to various environments and missions is necessary. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Precision is required to not miss the dog's subtle behaviors. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical stamina is required for long-duration inspections and training. |
| Stress Tolerance | Due to the high risk of missing illegal items and the tense nature of the work. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because numerical analysis is rarely performed. |
Aliases
- Customs Dog Handler
- K9 Handler
- Narcotics Detection Dog Handler
Related Jobs
- Animal Trainer
- Customs Inspector
- Guard Dog Trainer
- Security Guard