K-9 Veteran’s Day and Why Military Dogs Should Be Celebrated

For as long as anyone can remember, dogs have been by humanity's side to help in daily life. Today, a significant portion of the canine population is domesticated, but some are still alongside humans as military working dogs (MWDs).

MWDs, also known as K-9s, are highly trained canines that assist in several roles, from tracking and detection to bomb detection. All military branches have an MWD program, and they have been a part of the U.S. military since World War I. Beyond that, there are many wonders of MWDs.

This article will discuss everything there is to know about MWDs and why they matter. Read on below to get started.

A History of Military Dogs

Since World War I, military dogs have been a part of American efforts overseas. In that war, Sergeant Stubby, a bull terrier, became the first official American military dog. His service was recognized by the Smithsonian Institution and the American Legion.

Since then, many dogs have become household names. K-9 Storm received the Dickin Medal for her service in Iraq, and Ripcord was one of the most decorated MWDs ever.

Ico, a German shepherd, was awarded the Purple Heart for his valiant efforts in Vietnam. He was wounded twice, losing a leg during one of the attacks. He was the first dog to receive the medal.

Military dog programs are now in place in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. They have become an integral part of the military and a big part of the U.S. military’s effort in the current wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Military Dog Program

The military dog program is highly desired, and MWD handlers and dogs go through a rigorous selection process before becoming part of the program. The dogs chosen for the program must be of a certain age and size and must be trained before joining the program.

Dogs considered for the program must then pass a series of tests. These tests determine their aptitude for the program. No disqualifying factor would keep a dog from being tested for the program, so even if it fails all tests, it could still possibly be entered into it.

The selection process lasts about six months, and the training can last up to two years. The result is a weapon-ready MWD that knows how to do his job.

Specialized Training

MWD handlers and dogs go through specialized training. The training involves everything from parachuting to saving lives. Dogs in the program are trained in numerous ways, often using play and food to motivate them.

The dogs go through tests that include agility, obedience, and detection. There are different tests for different MWD jobs. For example, a dog can play a tracking role, a detection role, or a mine detection role. The training is highly specialized and is designed to mold the dogs for the job they will be doing.

The program does not have a set time for training, but the dogs and handlers are expected to keep up with the training. The program is constantly changing, so the dogs must adapt to the ever-changing role. In the future, the dogs and handlers will be expected to go through new training to adjust to the changing needs of the military.

Celebrating Military Dogs

K9 Veteran's Day will be observed this year on March 13, 2022. This special day is intended to give the dogs a day to celebrate and honor their service. Like Memorial Day and Armed Forces Day, this day is intended to bring people together to honor the dogs serving alongside soldiers.

Why Military Dogs Matter

Military dogs are trained to be obedient and loyal. They are also trained to be calm in stressful situations and avoid making the problem worse, requiring them to attack.

Dogs have a sense of smell that is many times better than humans. They can smell more than one trillion scents. This incredible sense of smell is what makes the dogs so valuable. For example, MWDs have been used to detect bombs and the scent of explosives. The dogs have also been used to locate many types of drugs. Their sense of smell has also been used to locate missing people, food, and even find survivors of plane crashes.

MWDs are also used to detect when someone is trying to cross the border. Their ability to detect people and things that would evade human detection is often the only way to stop the problem.

In addition to detecting explosives, drugs, missing people, food, and survivors of plane crashes, MWDs are also trained to notice other things. For example, some MWDs are trained to search for people and help law enforcement. These traits are precious to the military branch that employs them.

Conclusion

Military dogs are trained to do all of these things and more. They are one of the most valuable tools in the military’s arsenal, and they have helped save countless lives. These four-legged soldiers will keep on protecting lives for years to come.

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