What's it like being a dog handler?

As a dog handler you'll be based at Melton Mowbray during training and as your first posting.

As dog handler your main roles and responsibilities are looking after the dogs every morning.
this evolves walking them and cleaning their kennels.

Once you complete your class 1 course you'll be posted out to your first unit as an attached dog handler.

Thank you, this is very helpful! Where could you be based after training?

Would you consider it a rewarding position?

A any one of the infantry regiments or units deploying on operations.

Yes, but the role does require you to be a robust person.
you will be outside a lot and on some days there wont be much to do, other than walking and caring for the dogs.

Thank you for the help. I have heard it is a position that is very desirable and has a long waiting list. Do you know if there is one and how long it is by any chance?

Are you able to practice weapon handling and markmanship while you have down time?

Yes it is a very desirable job in the army, currently there is a 6 month waiting list.

What happens during the 6 months? do you do basic training then wait 6 months or wait 6 months then do basic training?

No, range time and any weapons specific training will be done as a unit.
unless you express any interes in becoming a weapons instructor.
this can only be done after completing trade training and a minimum of 12 month in your current unit.