It's well known that the dog is man's best friend, but it's also the best friend of the military and law enforcement! In the French armies, for example, there are more than 2000 dogs. These are working dogs capable of teamwork, used for search and intervention. These extraordinary companions are full-fledged soldiers on whom the success of a mission sometimes relies. Here's a selection of the 7 dog breeds most appreciated by police officers, gendarmes, firefighters, and military personnel.
I. Malinois (Belgian Shepherd)
The Malinois is one of the 4 varieties of Belgian Shepherds, a very affectionate breed that loves its family and has the instinct to protect its owners without being too aggressive. Belgian Shepherds are used as trackers, as special intervention dogs, but also as search and rescue dogs in the mountains. It's an intelligent, joyful breed with activity and behavior perfect for work, thus excellent as a police and military dog. It is one of the breeds that serve in the armed forces and can make helicopter jumps into water or parachute jumps!
II. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is undoubtedly the most represented and well-known dog breed within police forces. Its numerous qualities, including its exceptional sense of smell and high intelligence, make this breed a perfect tool for various tasks. The German Shepherd is used in territorial defense, in the search for missing or fleeing individuals, in the detection of explosives, and even illicit substances. Very obedient to its master, the use of the military dog harness remains a must for its training.
III. Doberman
The Doberman breed is increasingly in demand as a police and military dog, due to its intelligence and ability to assimilate and retain training. Once sadly famous for being the favorite dogs of the Germans during World War II, they possess extraordinary agility and strength. This has led them to be used today in many countries as guard dogs or even as an exceptional police intervention dog.
IV. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky possesses above-average intelligence. Although hyperactive, it knows how to be gentle and docile, and it is highly loyal to its master. The Siberian Husky is known for its incredible endurance, enthusiasm for work, and pleasant temperament, making it an excellent working dog. This sled dog has been used by the army in the Arctic and by the rescue unit during World War II.
V. Labrador Retriever
In addition to being a perfect family dog, it is an extraordinary guide for the blind and is also used for hunting by tracking and retrieving game. However, its sense of smell, intelligence, and docility make it a perfect dog for customs officers. Indeed, the extremely developed sense of smell of Labradors makes them very effective at detecting all kinds of illegal objects that do not escape their sense of smell, such as drugs, explosives, counterfeit bills, etc.
VI. Airedale Terrier
Intelligent and robust, the Airedale Terrier tolerates other pets with whom it grows up. It generally gets along well with other dogs and children. The Airedale will not fail to warn its master of danger and will show courage in the face of threat. The Airedale is still used for hunting both large and small game, as a police dog, and is an excellent family companion.
VII. American Pit Bull Terrier
Few Pit Bulls are used in police forces. This dog breed, infamously known for underground dog fighting, is characterized by its loyalty, courage, and determination, making it a perfect intervention and territory protection dog. The American Pit Bull Terrier is primarily used in the United States to combat crime, as a drug-sniffing dog, and to find missing persons.
Military Dogs: Invaluable Assets for Defense and Security Operations
While the role of dogs and their status has evolved within the armed forces over time, their commitment, loyalty, and selflessness have never wavered. Public recognition, such as statues and canine parades, serves as a reminder of the relevance of employing dogs in military operations, special interventions, rescue missions, and security. Considering the advancement in equipment technology, studies, and training for the soldiers and their four-legged companions working in tandem, the future of these canine companions is secured alongside law enforcement agencies!
