Top 5 Best Military Dog Breeds

Author: Shalesh Rana

Dogs have a reputation for their loyalty and dedication to a job well done. These animals are used for law enforcement and national security as well. But not every dog can be trained for law enforcement and military. It takes an exceptional combination of discipline and courage.

Here are six dog breeds that are used in Military –

1. The German shepherd

German shepherds are agile, strong, and easy-to-train for scout duty. But that’s not all. They are very attentive. German shepherds have the ability to train for a myriad of activities. They are not very aggressive and usually remain calm in warlike situations. Moreover, their predictable and faithful personality makes them very dependable. You can count on these loyal beasts walking by your side in the warzone. German shepherds are used as Police Dogs because of their intellect. Moreover, they have the ability to handle stressful situations. They can easily track or chase down criminals.

2.The Labrador retriever

Labrador retrievers are known for their friendly nature. But did you know they make for great hunting dogs? Labrador retrievers are gifted with a strong nose. And so, they can use their sense of smell to sniff and detect narcotics or explosives. These obedient dogs may not be ideal for security. But they are perfect to take along on search and rescue missions.

3.The Bloodhound

Bloodhounds are independent, inquisitive, and friendly in nature. Like Labrador retrievers, they too, have a strong sense of smell. This makes them the ideal breed to smell out narcotics and humans. The first-ever use of Bloodhounds by law enforcement was recorded in England in 1805. They were used to hunt down thieves and poachers. Once you hand a scented piece of cloth to their nose, Bloodhounds create an image in their head. This allows them to differentiate that particular scent from others. No wonder, Bloodhounds are used as Military dogs.

4.The Rottweiler

Known to be the perfect guard dog, a Rottweiler can be tagged loyal and intelligent. Even though they are usually reserved around strangers, Rottweilers are playful and loving with family. These giant, obedient animals fell into favours as Police Dogs in the early 20th century. Earlier, communication was far more difficult. So the military had to rely on the Rottweiler’s strong devotion to their masters. These dogs made their way through dangerous terrains to deliver information. Rottweilers were often used as ‘messenger dogs’ during the World War. And even though today, they aren’t as important in the battlefield, Rottweilers continue to serve the military.

5.The Beagle

Don’t underestimate these cute four-legged animals compared to their shepherd buddies. Beagles may not be trained for security but their strong sense of smell makes up for what it lacks in intimidation and strength. They are curious, friendly, and eager to learn. These cute little creatures were bred to hunt in packs for larger hares and rabbits. All these traits make Beagle the perfect sniffing dogs.

6.Belgian Malinois

Loyal, smart, hardworking, and confident, the Belgian Malinois is a look-alike of the German shepherd, only smaller in size. They own the traits of the Belgian Tervuren and the Belgian Sheepdog. Bred to be herding dogs, today, Belgian Malinois are used as Security Dogs and Police Dogs for search and rescue missions.

Dogs can be great companions, both on-field and off. There is quite a range of tasks for dogs serving in the military. This requires a wide variety of breeds who can deliver these tasks. The ones mentioned above are the best dog breeds used in the military.