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7 Fun facts K9 dogs you never heard about!
The National K9 Veterans Day is an ode to all the dogs that serve in the military. The first United States K9 Corps was created on March 13, 1942. Since then, dogs have played a significant role in the military. Like our hard-working military heroes, our K9 squad takes different parts in protecting society.
They work in various fields. These include Border Patrol, Customs, and Police K9s. Also Secret Service, Airport Service, and FBI K9s.
Celebrate this honorable day with your fur Comrades with Waggle Pet Monitor. Keep your four-legged friends safe and comfortable by protecting them from ambient unwelcome temperature and humidity changes.
Why are dogs called K9s?
“K-9” or “K9” is a typographic pun. It comes from the word “canine.” This term is inherited from military jargon. The term originates from “K-9 Corps.” This was shorthand for the Army’s War Dog Program. It was established during World War II. The name K9 Unit refers to both the police dog and its handler.
Download Infographic: 6 Things you should know about k9 veterans
Best K9 Breeds
Dogs that get selected in the K9 unit should do things like search and rescue, protection, and drug sniffing. And not many breeds can handle such responsibility. Here are some of the best dog breeds cut to join the K9 unit.
#1 German shepherd
These incredibly loyal dogs can be easily trained and work well in units. They are known to work well in the line of duty and are perfect to work in a K9 group. Their versatility makes them number one on our list.
#2 Beagle
It may surprise many, but being a fox breed, beagles have one of the best noses in the game. They are known widely as narcotics-sniffing dogs and can be seen in airports, border zones, and narcotics-finding patrols. Their larger-than-life personality and strong sense of smell give them an easy pass to the K9 unit.
#3 Belgian Malinois
As a distant cousin to German Shepherds, they share a few personality traits. Like the German Shepherd, Malinois is a suitable protector and is used in the front line of duty. They make tremendous military dogs and even work as support therapy dogs occasionally.
Related: Best Dog Exercises By Breed
#4 Bloodhound
Known as the best tracker dog in the business, these dogs can trail a scent for miles. Originally used for hunting and tracking, it makes sense that these dogs are naturally a part of the K9 unit. They are very useful during rescues to help find survivors or to catch a perpetrator on the run.
#5 Rottweilers
These dogs have been a part of the police force for years now. With a strong body and intelligence, they are versatile and work great in a unit.
Though huge, they are incredibly friendly and sharp. This makes them part of the K9 unit. Who wouldn’t want a super-strong dog to have their back?
#6 Labrador
Although they are known worldwide for their gentle and sweet nature, they have excellent sniffing ability. If they are appropriately trained, they can work in narcotics as a sniffing dog and in the police force.
How are K9 dogs trained?
We learned about K9 units and suitable breeds. Now, let’s get to the exciting part: Training.
The first step in the training process is to pass the basic obedience test. They must obey their handler’s command without hesitation. This gives handlers the leverage to keep the dogs in check if they tend to get aggressive. After they pass the obedience test, the next step is to check their endurance and agility.
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The dogs are put through various tasks to help increase their endurance and agility levels.
These tasks also help the dog and handler strengthen their bond.
The dogs must jump over walls. They climb stairs. Dogs also get used to city life. They should not get nervous with bustling city surroundings.
The next and final step is to receive specialty training. Many dogs are trained to search for drugs, though some are explosives or gun sniffers. Police dogs can also track missing persons or suspects.
7 Fun Facts about K9 Dogs
#1 Paw-some Sense of Humor: K9 dogs are known for serious, professional demeanor. This is true during their duties. However, they also exhibit a sense of humor. Some handlers report K9 partners playing tricks on them. They engage in playful behavior when off-duty. For example, they steal a handler's hat and run away.
#2 Tail Wagging Communication: K9 breeds use body language to communicate. Their tail wagging is not always a sign of happiness. It can also signify excitement or curiosity. Sometimes it's even a challenge to play. A wagging tail can mean, "Let's have some fun!"
#3 Howling Harmony: K9 dogs often howl when they hear sirens or other dogs howling. This is a throwback to their ancestral roots as pack animals. Sometimes, a siren might set off a hilarious chorus of howls among K9 units stationed nearby.
#4 Sniffing Competition: K9 breeds have an incredible sense of smell. They take their sniffing seriously. During training, they turn searching into competition. They try to outdo each other finding the target first.
#5 Unexpected Cuddle Buddies: Despite their tough exterior, K9 dogs are affectionate. They have law enforcement roles. They can be incredibly affectionate with their handlers. They often form strong bonds. They may surprise others by seeking cuddles. Also, they like belly rubs when not on duty.
#6 Zoomies on Breaks: K9 breeds need regular breaks. They rest and recharge during these times. Sometimes they unleash their inner goofball. They might engage in a sudden burst of energy. They run in circles or do “zoomies”. This happens around their handler, much like playful puppies.
#7 Treat Tussles: K9 dogs are highly motivated by treats; sometimes, they can get a bit naughty regarding rewards. During training sessions, they might snatch extra goodies or pretend they haven't received one to get more from their handlers.
The Bottomline!
K9 dogs display funny, endearing behaviors. Remember, they are highly trained professionals. They play a vital role in law enforcement. Also, they assist with security tasks. Their dedication and skills are impressive.
