AKC Professional Handlers are individuals who are qualified by the American Kennel Club (AKC) to handle dogs during AKC conformation events. Each dog in the competition must have a handler. The handler can be the dog's breeder, his owner, or another person. Because of their expertise, some contestants choose to rely on an AKC Professional Handler, also known as an AKC Registered Handler.

Some AKC Registered Handlers choose to work only with a specific breed of dogs, while others work with a variety of dog breeds. Anyone interested in hiring a handler should first observe a variety of handlers in show settings both in the ring and outside of it. You should ask for references, meet with handlers at their kennels, and ask plenty of questions. Remember that you will be entrusting your show dog to this person, and it is important that he or she is someone with whom you and your dog will be comfortable.

In order to be certified as an AKC Professional Handler, a dog handler must meet a specific list of criteria. This includes the following:

1. Provide proof of at least seven years of experience being paid to show dogs. Some of this experience may have been in the capacity of an apprentice to a registered AKC Professional Handler.
2. Present a client/handler contract and a current rate schedule.
3. Provide three reference letters; these must include one each from a client, business, and veterinarian.
4. Show proof of care, custody, and control liability insurance.
5. Own or lease vehicle(s) sufficient to transport show dogs.
6. Own or lease kennels that meet AKC criteria.
7. Sign the AKC Code of Ethics for Registered Handlers.

Once these criteria have been met, a prospective handler must submit an application to the AKC. AKC staff review all applications to ensure all qualifications have been met, then refer qualified applicants to be interviewed by an AKC representative. Once an applicant has been accepted, his name will be published in the AKC magazine, The Gazette, and will be made available to those members looking for an AKC Registered Handler.