| Specialized Training Categories |
| Each dog accepted into the military went through basic training. Basic training consisted of teaching the dog to sit, stay, come, etc. They were trained to work in various conditions such as in a muzzle, gas mask, riding in military vehicles, and under gunfire. After completing basic training each dog went through a specialized training period: Sentry Dogs Sentry dogs worked on a short leash and were taught to warn of danger by growling or barking. They proved valuable while working in the dark while attack from cover or rear was the most likely. The sentry dog was also taught to accompany military or civilian guards on patrol to give warning of strangers within the area. Scout or Patrol Dogs Scout or patrol dogs were trained to work in silence in order to aid in the detection of snipers and ambushes. In addition to scouting and patrol, these dogs were also trained and listed as sentry dogs as well. Messenger Dogs Messenger dogs were dogs trained to work with two handlers. The dogs were trained to travel silently and to make use of the natural environment when moving from one destination to the other. Loyalty was the most desired quality in these dogs as they needed that type of motivation to keep them on the move between the two handlers. The dog had to possess great speed, stamina, strength, endurance, the ability to swim and superior powers of scenting and hearing. The messenger dogs were unique in that they were not trained to look for trouble, but to have a suspicious nature rather than an aggressive one. There were a total of 151 messenger dogs trained. Mine Dogs Mine dogs were called M-Dog or mine detection dogs. They were specially trained to find trip wires, booby traps, metallic and non-metallic mines, and anti-tank personnel mines. The dog was trained to sit down from one to four paces a way from the concealed object. Two units were activated for these dogs and 140 dogs were trained to serve. Both units were sent to North Africa. Under combat conditions, though, the dogs had difficulty detecting mines, and in 1944, both units were deactivated.. |