Training Dogs in the Military: From Basic to Advanced Techniques

The military uses positive reinforcement training methods to teach dogs these commands, which involve rewarding good behavior with treats and praise.

A dog's ability to focus and respond to commands is crucial in military situations. This focus is developed through consistent training and practice.

In the military, dogs are trained to perform a variety of tasks, from detecting explosives to locating missing personnel.

Intriguing read: Dog Training Focus Exercises

To become a military dog trainer, you'll need to enlist in the military and complete basic training. In the U.S. military, dog handlers and trainers are enlisted, active-duty personnel who take on a dog-related role.

To get started, you'll need to take the ASVAB tests to confirm your suitability as a MWDH. These tests assess your skills, training, knowledge, and temperament, and will determine if you're approved for entry into the MWDH training program.

Once you're in the program, you'll complete 7 weeks of Phase 1 of Advanced Individual Training (AIT), where you'll learn military techniques for dog training and policing. You'll work alongside current MWDHs during this phase.

Your next step will be to finish the 11-week Phase 2 of AIT with your assigned, experienced dog. You'll develop your training and handling skills alongside your canine companion, who will be the more experienced member of the partnership.

To become a military dog trainer, you'll need to enlist in the military and complete basic training. This is a crucial first step, as military dog handlers and trainers are enlisted personnel, not civilian contractors.

You'll also need to take the ASVAB tests to confirm your suitability for the role. These tests assess your skills, training, knowledge, and temperament, and will determine whether you're approved for entry into the military working dog handler (MWDH) training program.

The MWDH training program consists of two phases of Advanced Individual Training (AIT). Phase 1 is a 7-week course that focuses on learning military techniques for dog training and policing. This is primarily on-the-job training, where you'll work alongside current MWDHs.

In Phase 2, you'll spend 11 weeks with an assigned, experienced dog, further developing your training and handling skills. Keep in mind that your assigned dog will likely be more experienced than you, so be prepared to learn from your canine companion!

Once you've completed AIT and become a MWDH, you'll be assigned to a variety of roles, including military policing, search and rescue, and protection duties. No matter your task, training your assigned dog will always be a critical part of your job.

As a military dog trainer, you'll often work with veterans who have served in the military, including those with combat experience. These individuals may have unique needs and challenges that require specialized training.

Veterans who have worked with dogs in the military, such as handlers, may have an easier transition into a training role. They already have a strong understanding of canine behavior and psychology.

Veterans with PTSD or other mental health conditions may benefit from working with therapy dogs, and some military dog training programs specifically focus on this area.

Many military dog trainers have a background in veterinary medicine, which can be beneficial when working with dogs with medical issues or injuries.

Military Working Dogs are highly trained canines that serve in all branches of the military, but the majority of K-9 units are found in the Army.

The Military Working Dog Program is housed at Lackland Air Force Base, where dogs are trained for the Department of Defense, including the CIA and Secret Service.

Dogs of various breeds can be trained to serve, but German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois are the most common breeds used.

Female dogs are just as effective as males, but tend to be smaller, making them more suited to searching tight spaces.

K-9 dogs have been used in high-profile missions, such as the takedowns of ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden.

In ancient armies, commanders preferred mastiff-type dogs for their size and power, while in World War I, small Jack Russell Terriers were used to patrol trenches and keep vermin away from soldiers.

The German Shepherd and Doberman Pinscher became iconic war dogs in World War II, known for their high trainability, loyalty, and commitment.

Today, German Shepherds remain popular in the U.S. military, while Labrador Retrievers and Malinois dogs are also relied upon for their diligence and trainability.

The Malinois, with its slighter build, is a strong and agile dog with an impeccable work ethic and obedient disposition.

Related reading: Training Belgian Malinois Puppies

Training dogs in the military requires a combination of obedience, agility, and specialized skills.

Positive reinforcement is a key technique used in military dog training, which focuses on rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing undesired ones. This approach is shown to be effective in building strong bonds between dogs and their handlers.

Handlers use a variety of rewards, including treats and praise, to encourage good behavior in their dogs.

The military has a proven track record of producing highly effective and disciplined individuals. Military training is designed to push individuals to their limits, building resilience and mental toughness.

One key technique used in military training is the "OPORD" (Operational Order) method, which involves a clear and concise briefing of mission objectives. This method helps to ensure that all team members are on the same page and working towards a common goal.

Military training emphasizes the importance of repetition and practice to build muscle memory. This is evident in the "dry fire" technique, where soldiers practice firing a weapon without ammunition to build accuracy and speed.

The military's focus on teamwork and communication is also a key aspect of their training. The "chain of command" principle ensures that clear lines of communication and decision-making are established, even in high-pressure situations.

The "buddy system" is another military training technique that promotes accountability and support among team members. This involves pairing soldiers with a designated "buddy" who is responsible for their safety and well-being.

Military training is designed to be physically and mentally demanding, with a focus on building endurance and stamina. The "ruck march" is a classic example of this, where soldiers carry heavy packs over long distances to build physical strength and mental toughness.

The military's use of "conditioning" exercises, such as push-ups and sit-ups, helps to build physical strength and endurance. These exercises are often performed in a circuit format, with soldiers completing a series of exercises in rapid succession.

Teaching obedience commands is a crucial part of training a military working dog. The US Army requires their dogs to learn commands with a verbal cue, as well as a visual cue, such as a hand signal.

To get started, you'll want to practice these commands regularly with your dog. The US Army recommends handlers train with their dogs a minimum of 4 hours per week, which breaks down to at least 30 minutes a day.

Training with your dog every day will help you build a strong bond and ensure they learn the commands quickly. Creating a bond with your animal takes hard work, repetition, and dedication, so be patient and consistent in your training.

Here are the obedience commands the US Army requires their dogs to learn:

Remember, the connection between a working dog and their handler is one based on the utmost trust and loyalty, which is essential to a good partnership.

Patience is essential when training dogs in the military, as it allows handlers to help their dogs develop the skills to perform tasks correctly. A handler must remain calm and self-controlled while working with the dog.

Military working dog handlers have to be incredibly patient, compassionate, and have a good work ethic. They also need to be prepared to continue training every day.

Creating a bond with your animal takes hard work, repetition, and dedication. It does not happen overnight. This requires a significant amount of time and effort from both the handler and the dog.

Here are some key characteristics of a successful military working dog handler:

These characteristics are crucial in building a strong partnership between the handler and the dog, which is essential for a successful military working dog team.

Patience is the key to developing a strong bond with your military working dog. It's not something that comes easily, but it's essential for their training and success.

A handler must remain calm and self-controlled while working with the dog on each task, as this helps the dog develop the skill to perform a task correctly. This means no yelling, no frustration, and no anger.

The military working dog handler has to be incredibly patient, compassionate, and have a good work ethic. Creating a bond with your animal takes hard work, repetition, and dedication.

Here are some key characteristics of a patient handler:

It's worth noting that some dogs are better at certain tasks than others, and differences in behavior and personality also determine their capabilities. Having patience will contribute to the success of your dog's training, while frustration, anger, and impatience will not.

Becoming a dog handler requires patience and a strong work ethic. You'll need to complete a series of steps to join the ranks of the Army K9 Unit.

To become an active-duty dog handler, you'll need to pass a medical screening and background check. This is a crucial step to ensure you're physically and mentally fit for the role.

You'll also need to obtain a passport, as you may be deployed overseas. This is a necessary requirement for any military personnel, but especially for dog handlers who may be working in international environments.

To qualify for this voluntary assignment, you'll need to successfully complete an interview with the kennel master or unit commander. This is an opportunity for them to assess your skills and experience.

Here are the specific requirements for becoming a dog handler:

There are about 2,500 K-9 dogs in service today, with approximately 700 serving overseas at any given time. This is a significant number, and it's a testament to the important role these dogs play in supporting our military efforts.

Some dogs begin training as young as 7 weeks old. This early start allows them to develop the skills and instincts necessary for their future roles.

Dogs are selected to be trained based off their love of a ball or Kong toy, since this is how they will be trained and rewarded throughout their service. This is a great example of how understanding an animal's natural behaviors can be used to their advantage.

Only about 50% of dogs pass training. This is a sobering reminder of the rigorous standards these dogs must meet to be considered for service.

The US Military trains approximately 300 dogs every year. This is a significant number, and it's a testament to the importance of the K9 unit in our military.

Some dogs can even be trained to jump from planes or rappel from helicopters! This is a remarkable example of the versatility and adaptability of these incredible animals.