Current Issue

Lesson in Leadership

A Question of Balance

By Phil Hansen

Each morning on my drive to work, I enjoy a strong cup of black coffee and say my prayers out loud in the car. It’s something I’ve done for years. Back before the days of cell phones and Bluetooth, passing motorists probably thought …

The Right Tool

The ABCs of Selecting Working Dog Equipment

By Jay Brock

At first glance the equipment needed for a working dog appears simple enough, right — a leash, a collar, a toy? But what is needed for one type of dog versus another and for what specific application can create confusion. Additionally, if starting a new …

Scenario Based Training

Officer/Subject Entanglement

By Jerry Bradshaw

Training scenarios that you have a high probability of encountering on the street was an important theme in the last two articles on scenario-based training. This article focuses on training for a confusing fight where officers and suspects are entangled …

Bite Work

Understanding the Different Drives

By Dondi Hydrick

Bite work training, when done properly, is one of the most challenging tasks of dog training. Yet it can be one of the most rewarding tasks.
The extreme variations in temperament of the dogs being worked makes it challenging …

Vet Check

Dental Care for Your Working Dog

By Dr. Alexis Newman

Oral care is important for all dogs, but it is crucial for your working dog. Regardless of their diet and what they chew on, all K9s may get tartar buildup, and they are at risk of fractured teeth. Some K9s teeth wear down over time. You need to be familiar …

National UK K9 Memorial

Motivation Behind the Memorial

Police Dog Sabre by Paul Nicholls

I joined Essex Police Dog Section in 2000, a childhood dream. But I did so with my eyes wide shut and I think there was always an elephant in the room; one day my K9 partner would no longer be with me …

Snapshot

K9 Kylo’s Approach to School Safety

Deputy Richard Castellon & K9 Kylo

There is no subject more complex these days than school safety. With potential threats on schools becoming more prevalent, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office in Florida recognizes just how important and resourceful police dogs are in assisting law enforcement and keeping communities safe …

Equipment

Kennels

Article by Addison Edmonds

The most important element between dog and owner is trust – anyone who understands dogs knows that. And as is often true in this world, that need is even more vital for working dogs and their handlers.
The road to forming that bond can …

Gear Junkie

Forged Clothing

Forged was born on the battlefield of Iraq in late 2006. During an intense fire fight in the streets of Ramadi, Iraq, a teammate and close friend sustained catastrophic injuries that left massive burns, and later led to the amputation of one of his limbs. When the team returned stateside, Forged and a few teammates decided to create a tribute shirt …

Third Party K9 – Cargo

Here’s What You Need to Know

On August 3, 2007, the 9/11 Commission Recommendations Act of 2007 legislation was signed into law mandating that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security establish policies and a system to enable industry to screen 100% of cargo placed on passenger aircraft. The deadline for meeting …

State of Mind

Conditioning the ON and OFF Switch

By Simon Prins and Kimberly Artley

Almost all working dogs are transported in special vehicles, from SWAT cars with one or two kennels, to unmarked cars with one kennel, to vans with three or more kennels. They’re ventilated, easy to clean, equipped with …

K9 Care and Maintenance

Supporting Cognitive Health and Wellness in Senior K9s

By Purina

As your alert K9 partner ages, he or she may run a little slower, and his or her muzzle may appear a little grayer. Although the aging process cannot be stopped, using targeted …

The Canine Athlete

Post Exercise Recovery

By Erica Boling, PhD

When you have a working dog that performs a physically demanding job, it’s obvious that good health and fitness are important. It’s not unusual that we spend the majority of our time focusing on training so that we can best prepare our dogs for their jobs …

Handler Fitness & Nutrition

Break the Cycle — How to Stop Binge Eating

By Marissa Oliver

At some point, most everyone has had the sore, stuffed belly that comes with overindulging in a meal. Whether it happens at a holiday meal or at night in front of the television, eating too much every once in a while is normal. So is eating for emotional reasons like …

Police Fitness & Nutrition

Shift Tip: Dealing With Back Pain

By Sergeant Wilson Alequin

What’s the first thing cops complain about regarding aches and pains? If you said back pain, then you are correct my friend. Lugging around a 20lb + belt all the time while getting in and out of a patrol car really takes its toll on you. But how can you help battle this?