Graduation of Labrador Retrievers as ATF Special Agent Canine Handlers

SOURCE www.npr.org
Labrador retrievers graduate from the National Canine Training Center of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives after completing a 24-week program to become ATF Special Agent Canine Handlers, trained to detect explosives in various environments.

Key Points

  • Labrador retrievers complete a 24-week program to become ATF Special Agent Canine Handlers
  • Dogs trained to detect explosives in operational environments
  • Handlers use food rewards for explosive detection training
  • Dogs live with their handlers and are also family pets

Pros

  • Highly trained dogs capable of detecting 19,000 explosive compounds
  • Can work off-leash in high-threat situations
  • Support major events and solve gun crimes

Cons

  • Intense and rigorous training for both dogs and handlers
  • Constant training required to maintain skills