Military working dogs hold a special place in the hearts of the troops who work with them. In a practical sense, they’re treated with the same honor and respect as any other troop.
They have a ceremony when they receive awards and are buried with military honors. They hold a rank, and as tradition dictates, one higher than their handler. It’s a tongue-in-cheek custom to ensure the handler treats them properly while giving the working dog some leeway to be a dog if they ever disobey an order.
They have very specific skills tailored to each mission. The role of an MWD can range from a mercy dog, assisting in locating wounded on the front lines, military police K-9s sniffing out narcotics, and EOD dogs sniffing out explosives. Even fighting dogs join troops on raids, scouting missions, and as sentries in guard posts.
These dogs are comrades, allies, battle-buddies, and – of course –friends.
Here are 13 photos of military working dogs being very good boys (and girls):
1. Cpl. Chesty XIV was the mascot of the U.S. Marine Corps from 2013-2018. He was also far more disciplined than nearly every Lance Cpl. in your unit
2. Sgt. Maj. Fosco was the first MWD to complete an airborne jump while being held by his handler, 1st Sgt. Chris Lalonde.
3. Selection and training of MWDs starts the moment they’re born. The more energetic the puppy, the more willing they are to learn.
4. The training process is a rough 93-day program but positive reinforcement is the key.
5. As with human troops, nothing can prepare you for a deployment.
6. Many statues and memorials have been dedicated to the commitment and loyalty of the Military Working Dogs.
7. Aeromedical personnel need to learn the basics of veterinary care in case they get the call to evacuate a wounded MWD.
8. MWDs never complain about spending time with their handlers, even if that means they have to train.
9. Did you know that tennis balls are a key item in the detection of explosives?
10. MWDs are the only troops who are 110% willing to train constantly and at all times of the day.
11. When they call us “Dogfaced Soldiers,” this isn’t what they had in mind.
12. As a handler, it is your solemn duty to love and care for your dog. If they want to play, well, technically, they outrank you.
13. MWDs are given the same respect of an American human troop. Complete with their own canine-version of the battle cross.
