Curious About Military Working Dogs Jobs

I'm interested in working with military working dogs after high school. What kind of roles or careers are available if I want to work with these amazing dogs? Also, what steps should I take to prepare for such a job?

Working with military working dogs is indeed a unique and rewarding career path. There are several roles available within this specific field, including:

1. Military Police K9 Handler: In this role, you would be responsible for training and handling a specially trained dog. These dogs are typically trained in one or two areas: patrol (protection, tracking, and apprehension of suspects) and detection (drugs or explosives).

2. Veterinary Corps Officer: These professionals provide care to government-owned animals, and are responsible for the overall health and well-being of their charges.

3. Dog Trainer: Some individuals specialize in training dogs for military use. This role requires a deep understanding of canine behavior and extensive experience with training techniques.

4. Kennel Master: Kennel masters coordinate the training and care of a group of dogs. This role is typically held by a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) and requires strong leadership skills and a thorough knowledge of military working dogs.

To prepare for a career working with military dogs, here are some steps you can take:

1. Physical Fitness: Military roles often require good physical condition. Regular workouts that focus on agility and stamina can be beneficial.

2. Education: While not always a requirement, a background in animal training, veterinary technology, or a related field can be a plus. Taking classes in high school related to animal science, or after high school in a relevant major, can provide a foundation of knowledge.

3. Volunteer Work: Consider volunteering at local animal shelters. This can provide valuable experience in handling dogs and understanding their behavior.

4. Join ROTC: The Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) at your high school or college can provide military training and leadership skills. This is considered beneficial when later enlisting in the military.

5. Enlist in the Armed Forces: An essential step in becoming a military working dog handler is to join the military. From there, you can make it known that you wish to work in the K9 unit and can be trained accordingly.

Remember, each branch of the military has its working dog program with unique requirements. Researching the programs in the branch of service you're interested in joining will provide the most accurate and detailed information. Best of luck on your journey!