May 18, 2011

What are your thoughts on a dual purpose police service dog having a handler change after being in service for approximately 2 years.

Full Question:
Just wondering about your thoughts on a dual purpose police service dog having a handler change after being in service for approximately 2 years. 4 year old shepard. What steps would you recommend to make it a successful transition?

Thanks,
Peter

(I enjoy your web site and the dedication required for sharing so much information.)
Ed
Ed Ed's Answer:
The problem is usually the new handler and not really the dog. Most new handlers have little to no understanding on dog training.

If the new handler has never handled a dog he should be sent through patrol dog school with the dog. If this does not happen and the department is really opening itself up to lawsuits. A good defense attorney will tear the handler apart.

As far as the dog goes – it takes time to bond. When I get a new dog, even if it’s a SchH 3 dog, I assume he knows nothing and I take him through the training program. The dog already knows the game but he has to learn that I am fair, that I too know the game and that he now needs to mind me. This helps set the rank with the dog. Read the article I wrote on DEALING WITH A DOMINANT DOG.

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Expert Dog Trainer Cindy Rhodes
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