On Watch

Guard Dogs

   Within the working dog group, there is a sub group of dogs known as Guard Dogs. These are dogs that have been bred specifically for guarding property which may include physical harm to intruders. Guard dogs are used to search for contraband, lost people and explosives. Guard dogs are different than watch dogs. Watch dogs will bark loudly at an intruder. Guard dogs are trained to bark and physically engage the intruder if necessary.

   Not all dogs have the temperament and the ability to be an effective Guard Dog.  Toy Dachshunds may have the temperament but lack the size.  Labrador Retrievers have the equipment but not the temperament.

     Dogs like the German Sheppard, Bullmastiff, Doberman Pincher, Rottweiler, Belgian Malinois and Bulldog are examples of dogs that are typically used in this role.

   Guard dogs are also used in military operations. A Belgian Malinois was used in operation Neptune Spear to keep Pakistan nationals at bay, while the Navy SEALs searched an Abottbad compound for Osama Bin Laden.

Transportation Safety Administration often uses guard dogs to search airports for bombs, illegal drugs and other contraband items.  The dogs are trained to react clearly to the smell of nitrates in explosives.  Some dogs are trained to sit on luggage that smell of illegal drugs.