Working Dogs

Working and security dogs are indispensable across multiple sectors, such as the police force, airport security, and search and rescue missions. These highly trained canines are more than just pets; they should be seen more as skilled professionals equipped to perform specific tasks that require keen senses, agility, and discipline. For an Garda Síochána (see Garda Dog Unit), the defence forces and Revenue for instance, these dogs are often deployed to assist in tracking suspects, detecting drugs, or even finding explosives. Their remarkable ability to detect scents makes them an integral part of airport security teams (Irish Customs), where they are tasked with sniffing out prohibited items or substances, ensuring the safety of passengers and staff alike.

Note: not all working dogs are used for security purposes. The term working dogs can be be used in more rural settings too. On farms, they are trained to herd livestock (Border Collie, Corgi, Australian Shepherd), such as sheep or cattle, demonstrating remarkable instincts and responsiveness to commands. In hunting scenarios, these dogs (e.g. Springer Spaniels, German Shorthaired Pointer) assist hunters by retrieving game or flushing out wildlife. These dogs have an unwavering loyalty and dedication which makes them invaluable assets on farms. Working dogs in Ireland used for hunting have special rules around tail docking.

Training Working Dogs

Training a working dog or security dog is a meticulous process that can take anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the specific skills required and the individual dog’s aptitude. The duration of training varies based on the role the dog will perform, such as police work, search and rescue, or airport security. Here are some key points about the training process and the skills needed:

1. Obedience and Discipline: A fundamental skill for all working dogs is obedience. They must respond immediately to commands, whether they are given verbally or through hand signals. This obedience is critical in high-stress situations where a quick, accurate response is necessary.
2. Scent Detection: Many working dogs are trained to detect specific scents, such as explosives, narcotics, or even missing persons. This skill requires a highly developed sense of smell and the ability to differentiate between various odours in challenging environments.
3. Tracking and Search Skills: For roles in police forces and search and rescue operations, dogs need excellent tracking skills. They must be able to follow a scent trail over different terrains and under varying weather conditions, often for extended periods.
4. Agility and Stamina: Working dogs are often required to navigate complex environments, from jumping over obstacles to crawling through tight spaces. Their training includes building physical strength, agility, and stamina to ensure they can perform their duties effectively.
5. Protection and Apprehension: In security roles, particularly in police work, dogs may be trained in protection and apprehension. This involves controlled aggression where the dog is taught to apprehend a suspect while remaining responsive to their handler’s commands.

Specialised Irish Companies

Here are some companies that have expertise in the security space.

• Munster Canine – munstercanine.com – Expert in security and protection dogs, as well as large breeds. Dog trainer. Cork, Ireland.
• Irish Search Dogs – irishsearchdogs.com – Non-profit, search and rescue dogs.
• Irish Dog College – irishdogcollege.com – Training courses, obedience & muzzle training, etc. Cork, Ireland
• K9 Security Ireland – k9securityireland.com – Security dogs. Tipperary, Ireland

Breeds of Security Dogs

When it comes to security dogs, certain breeds are favoured for their intelligence, agility, and temperament, which make them well-suited for demanding roles in police forces, military operations, and other security services. 

• Belgian Malinois: Highly energetic and intelligent, they excel in tasks requiring agility and quick decision-making, such as tracking and apprehension. Their loyalty and drive make them ideal for high-pressure security roles.
• German Shepherd: Known for their strength and versatility, they are excellent in protection work, search and rescue, and detection tasks. Their intelligence and obedience make them reliable in various security operations.
• Dutch Shepherd: Similar to the Belgian Malinois, they are valued for their endurance and ability to work under pressure. They are well-suited for tracking, apprehension, and explosive detection.
• Rottweiler: With a natural guarding instinct and strong protective nature, they are effective in personal protection and property guarding. Their physical strength and confidence make them ideal for security roles requiring a strong presence.
• Dobermann Pinscher: Agile and alert, they are known for their quick response and protective instincts, making them excellent in patrol and guarding roles. Their loyalty and speed are beneficial in both personal protection and law enforcement.
• Labrador Retriever: Highly trainable with a strong sense of smell, they excel in detection roles such as narcotics and explosives. Their friendly temperament also makes them suitable for search and rescue operations.
• Beagle: Renowned for their exceptional sense of smell, they are commonly used for sniffing out contraband and prohibited agricultural items at airports. Their smaller size allows them to manoeuvre easily in confined spaces.

Many of these breeds of dogs that are used in security are on the restricted breeds list and have special handing, muzzling and ownership rules.