How to Become A Security Dog Handler?
A Security Dog Handler: What Is It?
A person who handles and works with trained dogs to locate missing individuals, prevent crime, and protect houses or other buildings is known as a security dog handler. These handlers are professionally trained individuals and generally work in the security industry as security guards.
How Can I Become a Security Dog Handler?
Similar to becoming a security guard, becoming a security dog handler does not require any formal education, although there are certain requirements. Some of these are listed below.
A Security Permit
A security guard license is the primary requirement for becoming a security dog handler. You must be at least eighteen years old and legally permitted to work in the area where you intend to operate in order to apply for a security license. It also involves a background check and a criminal history check.
NASDU Certification
Dog handlers may need to obtain an NASDU qualification in addition to their security license. This certification teaches you the fundamentals of handling dogs. This organisation’s most popular certification is the Level 2 General Purpose Security Dog Handler program.
Dog handlers taking this training will discover the following:
- Training a security dog
- Understanding their duties
- Controlling security dogs
- Learning how dogs can keep houses and people safe
Owning a Vehicle
Owning a car that you can use as your own dog unit can be quite helpful, even though it’s not a requirement to become a dog handler. Some firms can even provide you with a vehicle while others may not, so if you have your own car, it will be more beneficial.
A Dog for Security
Access to a security dog is the final thing a dog handler will require. While some security companies might already provide security dogs, others might require you to have your own. Dogs of all breeds can work as security dogs. Some of the top dog breeds for protection dogs include:
- Great Danes
- Akita
- German Shepherds
- Doberman Pinscher
What Are the Responsibilities of a Dog Handler?
- Ensuring the health and welfare of security dogs via training and care.
- Establishing a close relationship and line of communication with the security dog.
- Using the dog to assist in routine security searches in an effort to identify and discourage criminal conduct.
- Ensuring the security dog is handled properly and safely throughout activities.
- Keeping thorough records of the dog’s education, behaviour, and well-being.
- Promptly informing managers of any events, injuries, or problems pertaining to the security dog.
- Assessing and enhancing the security dog’s performance and training on a constant basis.
Which Skills Are Required to Manage Security Dogs?
Being a security dog handler requires a variety of skills. A list of some of these skills can be seen below:
- Strong judgemental skills
- Strong decision-making abilities
- High levels of patience
- Compassionate for dogs
- Capability of working alone and in team as well
- Ability to remain composed under pressure
- Strong communication abilities
- Good physical abilities
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