Al-Amn Magazine

Security Forces. “This contributed to raising performance efficiency in the long term and increases the unit’s readiness to face future security challenges.” Enhancing local production He explained that the unit underwent a strategic shift in its dog recruitment process. “Previously, it relied entirely on imported dogs. Over time, a strategic plan was implemented in collaboration with the Canine Unit of the Special Security Forces, aiming to rely on locally bred dogs. This shift contributes to cost optimization and increased dog efficiency, enhancing their ability to perform security tasks more effectively and supporting the long-term sustainability of security operations.” Criteria for dog selection He said the Canine Unit employs a set of criteria to select suitable dogs for detecting prohibited materials. “These criteria include physical health, strength, concentration, and reaction time. Each dog undergoes several field tests to assess its basic skills, such as obedience, ability to search in dark places, sense of smell, and effectiveness in searching open and closed spaces, as well as goods, shipments, and vehicles.” He noted that dogs are also evaluated for distractibility, fear of noises, and a propensity for heights. Particular emphasis is placed on selecting dogs with friendly temperaments that do not project an aggressive image to travelers, thus contributing to the smooth and efficient performance of tasks, whether with individuals or goods. Breeds Regarding the selection of dog breeds, he explained that breeds are chosen according to the nature of the tasks. “For example, Cocker Spaniels are used for inspecting passengers and vehicles due to their small size, friendly appearance, and agility, while breeds such as German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are used for inspecting trucks and goods because of their physical strength, high fitness levels, and large size, which enables them to perform these tasks efficiently.” He added that the dog training programme Colonel Firas Ibrahim Al-Deisi