Adopting Military Working Dogs

Sometimes our heroes walk on four legs instead of two. Dogs have become a critical component of military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan; with their keen sense of smell, these dogs can sniff out traces of bombs, explosives, or drugs. They are often sent on patrol ahead of troops so they detect roadside explosives, or IEDs, which are the leading cause of deaths to soldiers in Afghanistan. While very useful to the military, these pooches don’t get a retirement package and VA benefits. After returning from service, many of these admirable, brave dogs are left homeless. Adopting a retired military dog can be a very rewarding experience.

Because of recent changes in law, members of the general public are able to adopt these dogs without paying a fee (though they may have to pay transfer fees if the dog is currently overseas). Breeds that the military typically employs (and deploys) as working dogs include German shepherds, Dutch shepherds, and Belgian malinois. These are big dogs, known for their aggressive temperament, but also for their intense loyalty. Their intimidation factor is a big reason for their use in military work: they create a “strong psychological deterrent” for those who would approach or threaten a soldier.

But do you want a dog that is used because of its size and aggressive nature to be in a family situation with you? Especially when these dogs can suffer from PTSD just like human vets? Each dog that is no longer needed for service (he is referred to as “excess”) has to be declared “suitable” for adoption. This includes rigorous testing, including a test in which the dog is placed in a training situation both with and without a muzzle with a decoy. If he doesn’t bite or attack, and if he passes other tests, he is deemed suitable.

Even so, the Department of Defense does caution that these dogs may not be a good fit for homes with children under age 8 or small pets. The military monitors active working dogs for signs of stress, fear, or undue aggression and is studying canine PTSD. Many dogs do not have negative reactions to battlefield stresses, including explosives. They are trained as soldiers in the field, but as pets in their quarters. While they are trained to take down full-grown men on the job, they enjoy positive, loving attention as much as any dog during their off-hours.

Military handlers get priority when adopting the 300+ retired military working dogs, followed by law enforcement agencies, followed by the general public. Just as the dog is screened, so are prospective adoptive families. Every effort is made to ensure a good fit. Is it a good fit for you? Only you can decide, but it is an avenue to consider when you are looking for a new addition to your family.