Training
Regional Police Dog Training School
All current dog training is co-ordinated from the Force operated regional Police Dog Training School currently base at The Barns near Spennymoor. Such training is delivered to both internal and external customers.
Both dog and handler are carefully selected and trained to ensure all the necessary skills are fully developed. Potential dog handlers must complete their initial 2 year probationary training before they can apply for the role.
A potential dog handler attends a 1 week familiarisation course. At the end of the week the candidates and the dog training centre staff must decide whether they are suitable. The course is physically and mentally demanding.
The Police Dog is constantly rewarded and praised for its hard work, and given good food, care, exercise and protection. On completion of the initial course, the dog and handler are assessed and if they have achieved the required standards they are licensed to become operational, as a team.
During the training the dog and handler form an extremely strong bond. The training is based upon positive reinforcement and harnessing instinctive behaviour patterns.
Throughout training the dog's natural abilities are identified, encouraged and enhanced. Training encourages an animal to use its instinctive drives in a controlled situation and on command. A dog's natural abilities form the basis for many of the exercises in Police Dog training.
Training will continue to be a vital part of the team, with emphasis on control, safety and efficiency. Re-licensing will occur annually throughout the working life of the dog, to ensure the required standards are maintained.
