Security Dog Handler Training

Security dog handler training certification can be completed by enrolling in a training course provided by either a private handler training facility or with the U.S. military. Both categories offer initial training and certification of canine security handling; additionally, some private handler training facilities offer recertification for those who want to keep refreshed in canine training and handling methods.

  1. Nonmilitary Option

    • Nonmilitary security dog handler training academies should be licensed by the U.S. Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and Explosives. These academies provide security dog handler programs for nonmilitary law enforcement and private personnel in the proper handling and maintenance of working canines. Training programs provided by licensed security dog handler academies are in explosives, narcotics detection, patrol, tracking and protection.

    U.S. Military Option

    • U.S. Air Force Squadron 341 is the only military canine training facility in the United States and is located at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas; it is responsible for training all working canine teams employed by all branches of the U.S. military. Individuals must complete military basic training before they can attend dog school, where they will work with their canine partner learning handling and retrieving methods inside the traditional classroom and in the field.

    Coursework

    • The coursework required through the nonmilitary option requires 13 weeks in a training program that includes a combined total of 600 hours of in-class and field training exercises for both the handler and canine. Examples of the canine coursework training a handler will undergo are basic and advanced canine obedience, canine selection, personal protection, tracking and trailing, liability laws and criminal apprehension.

    Career Options

    • Once an individual becomes a certified and licensed security canine handler, there are several career opportunities available. Possible positions are employment with private security companies that work alongside or with government agencies in need of additional canine teams such as boarder patrol. Additionally, pre-trained canines can be purchased for personal use or by privately owned security companies that are in need of patrol and security canines.

    Distance Learning Option

    • Although there is not a distance learning option for the U.S. Air Force Dog School, distance learning is available through some academies. For a monthly fee, people can enroll in online programs to become knowledgeable in the training and handling of a personal canine via email and Internet access. The distance learning option is considered a non-law-enforcement training and handling program; however, enrollment in this class does not prevent enrollment in the standard program should an individual decide to become law enforcement certified at a later date.