Whether you’re a military veteran or just a dog lover, becoming a navy dog handler is an excellent way to get your foot in the door of the military. With the right training and preparation, you can become a military dog handler and have a career that is both rewarding and fulfilling.
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Duties of a military working dog handler
Whether they are working on shore or in the air, Military Working Dog Handlers are first responders and must fulfill many requirements to complete their mission. Among them, they must be certified in their field. These certifications can lead to promotions and civilian employment opportunities.
There are two phases to training as a Military Working Dog Handler. First, they must attend Basic Military Training for 10 weeks. This includes instruction in police methods, physical fitness, and handling techniques. Next, they attend Advanced Individual Training for 17 weeks. This includes instruction in care for a Military Working Dog, as well as proper use of dummy explosives and other equipment.
In addition, Military Working Dog Handlers must undergo re-certification every year. This includes training in various areas, including explosives, narcotics, and more. They also must pass a background check. Then, they must pass an interview with a kennel master.
Working dog handlers must also complete a medical screen. Some dogs may have medical problems that may require prescription medications for the rest of their lives. The handler must also learn basic veterinary procedures. This includes checking the dog for physical limitations, completing evaluations, and dispensing medications.
Military Working Dog Handlers are often featured in television shows and movies. They are known for their speed and detection skills. These skills can be used to detect explosives, illicit drugs, and lost or wanted persons.
They also perform physical security on military bases and Navy ships. They are also responsible for escorting shipboard weapons and conducting counterterrorism measures. They are also able to provide safety and security to VIPs. They are also given allowances for civilian clothing, housing, and food.
As a Military Working Dog Handler, you are able to take on leadership positions, while utilizing your training and experience to protect a military installation. You may be called to a combat mission abroad or at home. In addition to these duties, Military Working Dog Handlers also train and guide service dogs, who are used by the military to help the disabled and those in need.
You can watch an Army video that provides an inside look at the duties of a Military Working Dog Handler. The video discusses how the job works, how they train dogs, and what they do during long deployments.
Qualifications for becoming a military working dog handler
Generally, a military working dog handler is trained for bomb-sniffing missions, but there are also other opportunities to become an expert in other areas. If you’re interested in this career, you’ll need to be willing to work long hours and care for a large animal.
Before becoming a military working dog handler, you’ll need to have a security clearance. This is granted by the Secret Service, and you’ll need to be a United States citizen.
There are five levels of certification within the field, and you’ll need to be certified at each level before you can advance. You’ll also need to complete the Basic Combat Training course and the Advanced Individual Training course. These courses will teach you how to train your dog and how to care for him.
As a military working dog handler, you’ll be a part of a team that is tasked with training and protecting a military base. You’ll be required to work in harsh terrain and on a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week basis. You’ll also have to pass a medical screen and a background check.
During your initial training, you’ll learn how to train your dog. This involves basic commands and a focus on obedience. You’ll also learn how to deal with high-stress situations. You’ll need to develop a good bond with your dog, and you’ll need to be able to keep up with him during training.
Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll need to earn a certification to guide your dog. This certification includes basic obedience training, odor recognition, and physical restraints. You’ll also need to learn how to use dummy explosives and be familiar with basic arrest techniques. You’ll also need to practice searches in a variety of locations. You’ll need to complete evaluations and dispense medications, and you’ll need to pass a background check.
Once you’ve passed your certification, you’ll be able to work as a military working dog handler. You’ll be assigned to a patrol canine, and you’ll help protect VIPs and VIP visitors. You may also be asked to work on a special assignment, such as customs support, or protecting a VIP’s house.
German Shepherd
Whether you are interested in a career as a dog handler or you simply enjoy working with animals, becoming a Navy dog handler for a German Shepherd may be right for you. Dogs have been serving in the United States armed forces since World War II. They are highly trained military dogs and are considered fellow warriors.
Several different breeds are enlisted into the Navy. German Shepherds are a popular choice, but other breeds are also used. Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are two other popular breeds.
The Military Working Dog Program recruits dogs from elite breeders around the world. About 13% of the canines in the program are born into the U.S. Military. Some of the breeds used include German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Dutch Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.
Dog handlers are responsible for training the dogs and taking care of them in the field. They receive training at the 341st Training Squadron, located at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. The squadron also trains the dogs for the Department of Defense Military Working Dog Program.
Some of the dogs in the program are trained to detect explosive devices. They can do this from fifty feet away, which makes them ideal for searching for objects. They are also used for demonstration dogs.
A dog handler’s role is very important. He or she will not be able to have the same dog throughout their career. They will also have to develop a relationship with the dog. They are taught how to communicate with the dog through verbal cues and unwanted noises.
Dog handlers attend a Dog Handler ‘C’ School that lasts thirteen weeks. During this time, they will learn basic training techniques. They will also learn to associate with the dog and teach it how to interact with other people.
Most dogs will serve a career of 10-12 years. When they retire, they are awarded full honors for their service. They are also provided retirement perks.
The Department of Defense Military Working Dog Program is a huge program. It has a breeding program that is considered to be one of the largest in the world. It provides working dogs for all branches of service.
Belgian Malinois
Whether you’re considering joining the Navy SEALs or just looking for a new dog for your family, the Belgian Malinois is a great choice. Known for its speed and agility, the Malinois is an excellent working dog. Besides that, they’re a loyal and loving companion.
In fact, the Belgian Malinois is the top dog breed used by the United States Navy SEALs. It’s also used by the Secret Service. These dogs are often trained to detect explosive devices.
They’re also known for their keen sense of smell and speed. A dog with these qualities can detect explosives up to 80 percent of the time.
They also excel at agility training. This means they are well-suited for competitions. They are also known to be good with children. However, not all Malinois have the temperament needed for a family dog. It’s important to choose a reputable breeder. You may also need the services of a professional trainer to train your Malinois.
If you’re planning on becoming a member of the Navy SEALs, you’ll have to follow a lengthy training process. While most Malinois can handle most of their training on their own, you’ll need to follow a training program that is designed to weed out dogs that won’t be able to handle the stresses of military training. The program costs around $50,000 per dog.
During training, you’ll need to keep your Belgian Malinois active and engaged. Your dog should spend at least 40 minutes to an hour a day walking or running, and you should also provide lots of fun toys and activities to keep them occupied.
If you’re interested in becoming a Belgian Malinois navy dog handler, you’ll need to find a reputable trainer. These dogs can be tough to train, but with the right training and guidance, you’ll be able to master them.
If you want to be a Belgian Malinois navy handler, you’ll need to be firm but gentle. Avoid yelling or harsh handling, and be sure to give your dog a chance to get used to its new environment. This is a good time to socialize with your puppy, which helps prevent aggressive behavior.
