Most commonly, when you hear of K-9 Dog Training, this involves canine police training. Have you ever seen the police cars with K-9 on the side? This is because they have a partner; most often a German Shepherd partner, riding with them protecting the community.
K-9 Dog Training: Obedience Training
The foundation of a K-9 Dog Training program is obedience training. Just as in other training organizations, dogs in a K-9 Dog Training program are taught commands such as stay, down, heel and sit. They are taught at the maximum level and must demonstrate a strong willingness to learn and accept authority.
K-9 Dog Training: False Run
Part of the K-9 Dog Training program involves a test called a False Run. The False Run is designed to determine if the dog demonstrates total control in threatening situations. The trained police dog is presented with aggressive or threatening movements by a skilled agitator. The dog must not act upon any agitation unless specifically instructed by his trainer. No matter what action the agitator makes, the canine must remain by the trainer’s side.
K-9 Dog Training: Uses
What are the dogs used for once they complete their K-9 Dog Training ? Well, they are used for many, many purposes. K-9 dogs can be taught to attack assailants, attack while under gunfire, detect and track narcotics and/or detect and track explosives. The k-9 dogs which complete this program are highly skilled and motivated. They are as useful as their human counterparts in the field.
The most common k-9 dog you see in these types of jobs? The German Shepherd! Why is this? German Shepherds were chosen due to their willingness to learn, their trainability, temperament, loyalty and intelligence level. They are all around the perfect dog for the job!
Watch here a video about our most humble heroes: dogs.
Amber Johnson, Animal Behaviorist
Miss Amber Johnson has many years of experience with pets and is a licensed cat and dog nutrition and behavior specialist. She currently collaborates with PetPremium where she counsels clients in pet behavior and nutrition. The statements made in this article are the personal opinions of Miss Amber Johnson and based on independent experiences and could be different from the opinions of PetPremium Pet health Insurance or any other pet health insurance provider.