The handler’s sex, as well as his personality and individual predispositions, may affect his suitability for work in rescue services. In addition, the handler’s susceptibility to stress may affect the effects of search and rescue (SAR) dog’s work. The study aimed to analyze the salivary cortisol level of SAR dog handlers concerning the sex of the handler, and the type and results of rescue examinations. Forty one SAR dog handlers participated in the study. Together with their dogs, they participated in open-field and disaster rescue exams. It turned out that the handler’s sex did not affect the results of the rescue exams. However, the obtained research results suggest that the sex of the handler may be important when choosing a rescue specialty