Att 2_DAFI31-121_Obstacle Course - Regulations.pdf

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1.6.5. Ensures all MWD training equipment is serviceable, safe, and effective for training. (T- 2).

1.6.6. Supervise the deployment preparation of MWDTs. (T-2).

1.6.7. Develop a pre-deployment training program based upon current threats and enemy Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP). (T-2).

1.6.8. Coordinate with servicing veterinarian to ensure MWDTs receive at a minimum semi-annual medical care and emergency first aid training from qualified veterinary personnel. (T- 1).

1.6.9. Annotate and sign as the reviewing official on the AF Form 321 and AF Form 323 when the KM is assigned an MWD and when filling in as the acting KM. (T-2).

1.6.10. Enforce established procedures within this guidance. (T-2).

1.6.11. Verify no obvious hazards pose a threat to MWDTs within a designated training area.

(T-1).

1.7. Military Working Dog Handler. MWD handlers provide the daily care and grooming for their assigned MWD. They ensure sustainment skills are maintained for their assigned MWD.

Personnel, regardless of rank and status, must complete the MWD Handler Course prior to handling an MWD. (T-1). The handler must enter and complete upgrade training to the 5-skill level before being awarded the 3P051A AFSC. (T-2). The MWD handler must complete all upgrade requirements and all task items for the 5-skill level in the MWD Handler Career Field Education and Training Plan. (T-2). Training done by private businesses or civilian police departments is not a substitute for the DoD MWD Handler Course. The MWD Handler will:

1.7.1. Complete monthly OTP. (T-2).

1.7.2. Groom and conduct a health check on their assigned MWD daily. (T-1). Notify veterinarian if an abnormality is found during health checks.

1.7.3. Maintain MWD kennels daily. (T-1).

1.7.4. Ensure physical conditioning training is conducted daily or as determined by the KM.

(T-1). Daily performance of the Obstacle course should be included in the physical training.

1.7.5. Perform additional kennel duties as assigned. (T-2).

1.7.6. Utilize WDMS to complete AF Form 321, AF Form 323, and other required documentation daily when assigned MWD is utilized. (T-2). Utilize paper copies during times of WDMS outages and transcribe records within WDMS once system is back online.

1.7.7. Accompany assigned MWD to all veterinary appointments and remain with MWD throughout hospitalization at installation and civilian veterinary clinics. (T-1).

1.7.8. Inspect all MWD equipment prior to each use. (T-1).

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Chapter 4

MILITARY WORKING DOG TRAINING

4.1. Military Working Dog Team General Proficiency Training. The most vital part of all MWD operations is training. Without frequent and consistent training, the MWD becomes a liability instead of an asset. Therefore, the squadron commander should provide ample opportunities necessary for MWDTs to maintain proficiency while on duty.

4.1.1. Each OTP should continually improve both the MWD and the handler. Kennel Masters must review the OTPs monthly, not to exceed 30-calendar days to ensure the MWDT is progressing and steadily challenged. (T-2).

4.1.2. The OTP is minimum MWDT proficiency training required of each task per month. The OTP identifies if the training task(s) are to be conducted daily, weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly. All MWDs are required to train in all the tasks below unless specifically identified.

In these cases, only MWDs trained and certified in those tasks will conduct training in those areas. (T-2). Minimum training may change depending upon changes in the proficiency level. Each OTP states, at a minimum, the following:

4.1.2.1. Basic MWD skills, to include off leash requirements. Basic MWD skills are Heeling, Marching, Down from the Heel, Heel/Sit from the Down, Stay, Down at end of leash, Sit at end of leash, and Recall to the Heel.

4.1.2.2. Obedience Course both on and off leash.

4.1.2.3. Gunfire and Pyrotechnics. Gunfire must be fired from both a disinterested person (anyone who is not the handler) and the handler. (T-1). No less than six rounds of blank ammunition should be fired by the disinterested person and six rounds of blank ammunition by the handler. MWD trainers should cater gunfire training to each MWDT to ensure teams advance and progress appropriately. Additionally, it is highly recommended MWDs be exposed to the firing of live ammunition in designated areas, such as the Combat Arms firing range or any other DAF approved firing range on a monthly basis. Note: The M18 may be used in place of the .38 to fire blank ammunition once blank firing adapter kits are approved.

4.1.2.3.1. Attempt to fire both, primary (M18) and secondary (M4) weapons systems when conducting gunfire training to the maximum extent possible.

4.1.2.3.2. Annotate type of weapon fired by handler and disinterested person on the back of the AF Form 321.

4.1.2.3.3. When deployed, exhaust all options to accomplish blank gunfire training.

See SFTRG 7, for gunfire training.

4.1.2.4. Intruder Detection. Intruder detection is not just for MWDs validated in controlled aggression, it is also for detector only MWDs. The three types of intruder detection are Sight, Sound, and Scent Scouting. All three tasks will be trained and the acceptable response will be determined by the KM based upon the (T-2). If an MWD is unable to accomplish any of these tasks, annotate in the

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5.1.4.1.3. Gunfire. The MWD successfully performs basic obedience, and controlled aggression tasks, during gunfire. Minimum of six rounds by agitator and six rounds by handler (any combination of authorized weapon systems) for a total of 12-rounds should be used each session. Keep gunfire, during aggression phases of training to a minimum.

5.1.4.2. Semi-Critical Tasks are: SIT END OF LEASH, DOWN END OF LEASH, RECALL TO HEEL, and INTRUDER DETECTION.

5.1.4.3. Non-Critical Tasks are: OBEDIENCE COURSE, CIRCLE DOG, STEP OVER DOG, STRADDLE DOG, and VEHICLE PATROL.

5.1.5. Controlled Aggression.

5.1.5.1. Critical Tasks are STAY, FALSE RUN, FIELD INTERVIEW, BITE AND

HOLD, RELEASE BITE, OUT AND GUARD, STAND-OFF, SEARCH AND

REATTACK/ESCORT, SCOUTING, and BUILDING SEARCH.

5.1.5.1.1. False Run (Off Leash). Given the command "STAY," when confronted by an individual who approaches no closer than three feet, the dog must not break position.

(T-1).

5.1.5.1.2. Stand-off. When commanded to bite and hold the intruder(s), the dog must pursue until commanded "OUT" by the handler. (T-1). The dog must not bite the intruder regardless of the intruder's actions. (T-1).

5.1.5.1.3. Bite and Hold. When commanded "GET 'EM," the dog must pursue, bite, and hold an intruder for a minimum of 10-seconds. (T-1). The dog must not release until commanded "OUT." (T-1). Dogs must demonstrate proficiency in this task with either an exposed or concealed arm protector. (T-1).

5.1.5.1.4. Search and Escort. The handler positions the suspect at a distance of six to eight feet from the dog, facing away from the dog and advises the suspect not to move.

The handler then moves up and conducts a search of the suspect. Once the search is urns to the heel position where the dog is located. The handler then puts leash on MWD, and remains within 8- 10 feet of the suspect ensuring the MWD is focused on the individual. Prior to initiating the escort, the handler instructs the suspect to only move when told to do so, and that any sudden movement of the suspect may result in the dog breaking the heel position and biting. The dog may heel on the handler or slightly forward and to the side of the suspect to ensure an effective escort. During training, re-attack scenarios should be conducted periodically to ensure that the dog performs the task without command.

5.1.5.1.5. Building Search. The dog finds an intruder with or without an arm protector hidden in a building and indicates to the handler the presence/location of the intruder.

5.1.5.1.6. Scouting. The dog finds an intruder hidden in an open area or field by scent at 50 yards downwind, sight at 35 yards upwind of scent, or sound at 35 yards upwind of scent. Consider terrain and weather conditions when evaluating by these standards.

5.1.6. Patrol, Obedience, and Controlled Aggression validations will be conducted at least annually or upon initial MWDT certification. (T-1). If during the validation, any critical task results in a failure, the MWDT will be entered immediately into remedial training. (T-1).

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Chapter 3

3-8 ATP 3-39.34

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(U) OBEDIENCE COURSE

3-17. (U) The obedience course exposes the MWD with patrol capability to various obstacles that simulate walls, open windows, tunnels, ramps, or steps. The MWD�s exposure to these obstacles reduces the amount of time required to adapt MWDs to different environments. The MWD learns to negotiate each of the obstacles. When confronted with a similar obstacle in the working environment, the MWD is not deterred from completing their mission. The obedience course also develops the handler�s ability to control the MWD�s behavior both on and off leash. The obedience course is not a substitute for exercise. An MWD should never be required to negotiate the obedience course until they has been warmed up by proper exercise.

Figure 3-3 provides examples of obedience course obstacles.

Figure 3-3. (U) Obedience course obstacles

(U) EMPLOYMENT

3-18. (U) Patrol dogs can provide support enhancing survivability and increasing mobility across the range of military operations. MWDs serve as a force enabler, enhance detection capabilities, serve as a physiological deterrent, and are support of area security, force protection, antiterrorism, detention operations, and police operations. Patrol dogs can also provide support to tactical operations by identifying and locating enemy threats, assisting in personnel recovery, locating ambushes, attempts at infiltration, and supporting combat patrols, reconnaissance, and outposts/listening posts.

(U) AREA SECURITY

3-19. (U) Area security is a security task conducted to protect friendly forces, installations, routes, and actions within a specific area (ADP 3-90). Although vital to the success of military operations, area security is normally an economy-of-force mission, often designed to ensure the continued conduct of sustainment operations and to support decisive and shaping operations by generating and maintaining combat power. Area security may be the predominant method of protecting rear areas that are necessary to facilitate the positioning, employment, and protection of resources required to sustain, enable, and control forces. The MWD�s sight, smell, and hearing ability enhance detection capabilities and provide commanders with a physical and psychological deterrent to threat activity during area security operations. The MWD compliments and reinforces security measures. Patrol dogs also provide support to perimeter and area

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(U) Kennel Construction

ATP 3-39.34 H-5

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training. The area should be enclosed with an 8-foot chain-link fence. Gates should be self-closing and self-latching with a minimum width of five feet to allow for lawn maintenance equipment. The area should be well lighted to eliminate shadows. Light poles should be located on the exterior of the fence. On and off switches should be manual. Weatherproof outlets should be provided at each light to provide power at the site. Speaker units connected to the chosen public address system should also be provided. Faucets should be installed at the course site to provide water for MWDs and lawn. An irrigation system is desirable for long-term lawn maintenance.

H-15. (U) Obstacles for the course include barrels, tunnels, steps, jumps, framed windows, and dog walks.

Each obstacle is 15 to 20 feet from the previous obstacle; the course is run in a sequence. Obstacles should be constructed to the following specifications:

Barrel 1 is 35 inches long with a 23-inch opening.

Barrel 2 is 70 inches long with a 23-inch opening.

Barrel 3 is 105 inches long with a 23-inch opening.

The tunnel is 146 inches long with a 19-inch opening.

The steps are 94 inches high with five steps on each side. Each step is 43 inches wide by 16 inches high by 24 inches long. The top platform is 48 inches long by 43 inches wide.

Jumps 1, 2, and 3 are 36 inches high at the maximum raised level. Each jump has six removable boards, 51 inches long by six inches high and one inch thick.

The framed window is eight feet tall. The maximum height for the MWD to negotiate is 36 inches.

The window opening is 48 inches wide. Removable boards are 5 1/7 inches wide by 51 inches long and one inch thick.

The A-frame two sides are eight feet long by four feet wide by one inch thick with one inch by two inch boards every six inches to secure footing. It has a maximum raised height of six feet with a base spread of 10 feet.

The dog walk is 26 inches high by 224 inches long and 11 inches wide with one inch by two inch boards every four inches to secure footing. Each end has a 45 degree incline ramp that is 11 inches wide by 49 inches long (included in the 224 overall length measurement).

(U) MILITARY WORKING DOG BREAK AREA (10 FEET BY 20 FEET)

H-16. (U) An MWD break area should be located near the kennels. A break area allows the handler to release the MWD immediately after exiting the kennels or before entering the kennels so that the MWD can relieve themself. The area should be enclosed with an 8-foot chain-link fence. Gates should be self-closing and self-latching and a minimum of five feet wide to allow for lawn maintenance equipment. The ground can be a sandy area for cleaning ease. A water faucet is required to maintain the area.

H-17. (U) The exercise area is a space where the MWD can be released without the handler being present.

The exercise area should not be a shared area with the obedience course (shown in figure H-4, page H-6), as it would conflict with training objectives. The exercise area should be visually separated from the obedience course to prevent MWDs from being distracted during training. The exercise area should be grassed, hazard free, and graded slightly for drainage purposes.

(U) INTERIOR AREAS

H-18. (U) Interior areas have heating, ventilation, and exhaust systems; general-purpose lighting; and power outlets in all spaces. Provide telephone, fax, and local area network connections to support each area and hot

(U//FOUO-LES [Law Enforcement Sensitive])

When to Train. Schedule training during handler’s normal shift or during designated training times to prevent loss of proficiency and meet proficiency standards.

Where to Train. Conduct training in areas that closely simulated the operating environment.

Why to Train. Team training is a complex combination of maintaining learned individual handler and MWD skills, building a solid team working relationship conducive to effective performance, building endurance, and enhancing skills to meet operational requirements. It is the KM’s responsibility to ensure the handler is fully capable of using the established training techniques and concepts described in this training guide. Important factors are the quality of training and the length of time elapsed between task performances.

The OTP identifies if the training task(s) are to be conducted daily, weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly. All MWDs are required to train in all the tasks below unless specifically identified. In these cases, only MWDs trained and certified in those tasks will conduct training in those areas.

Training activities outlined in the OTP may exceed training standards depending on operational commitments. KMs/Trainers will generate the OTP and provide a copy to the handler. Review the OTP at least monthly and adjust as necessary to achieve and maintain the required team performance. Minimum training may change depending upon changes in the MWDT’s proficiency level. Each OTP states, at a minimum, the following:

Basic MWD skills, to include off leash requirements, such as Heeling, Marching, Down from the Heel, Heel/Sit from the Down, Stay, Down at end of leash, Sit at end of leash, and

Recall to the Heel.

Obedience Course both on and off leash.

Gunfire and Pyrotechnics. Gunfire must be fired from both a disinterested person (anyone who is not the handler) and the handler. No less than six rounds of blank ammunition will be fired by the disinterested person and six rounds of blank ammunition by the handler, utilizing the service pistol and/or M4 per month. Annotate type of weapon fired by handler and disinterested person on the back of the AF Form 321. When deployed, exhaust all options to accomplish blank gunfire training. It is highly recommended MWDs be exposed to the firing of live ammunition in designated areas, such as the Combat Arms firing range or any other AF approved firing range on a monthly basis.

Intruder Detection. Intruder detection is not just for MWDs validated in controlled aggression, it is also for detector only MWDs. The three types of intruder detection are

Sight, Sound, and Scent Scouting. All three tasks will be trained and the acceptable response will be determined by the KM based upon the MWD’s capabilities. If an MWD is unable to accomplish any of these tasks, annotate in the MWD’s records.

Controlled Aggression (trained MWDs only): Field Interview, Pursuit and Attack, Stand

Off, Search and Escort, Search and Re-attack, and Building Searches.

Substance Detection. Trained MWDs will train on all applicable odors monthly, if training aids are available.

Intermediate Obedience. Once your dog attains proficiency on the 6 foot leash, extend this proficiency to a 360-inch leash and eventually off leash. When you first use the 360-inch leash, start at the same distance as with the six foot leash, than gradually increase the distance and the time spent at the end of leash. During this training, if your dog fails to perform any specific command, walk back to your dog and put it in the position you desire. As you approach the dog, give the command “Stay” only if the dog starts to break position. Never run back to the dog or make threatening gestures as this may make the dog break position and run. After you position your dog, use shorter distances for later trials.

Once you and the dog achieve proficiency at the end of the 360-inch leash, you may begin training off leash. To begin off-leash training, execute the basic command and movements with your dog at your side. This process gives you an opportunity to test your dog’s reliability and revert to the use of the long or short leash to correct deficiencies. Continue obedience training at your side until you feel your dog will perform among other teams without aggression. As the training progresses, move out in front of your dog a short distance and gradually increase the distance and periods away from it. Your dog’s performance determines how far away you should be. Normally, 50 feet is the maximum distance away from you that a dog conducts off-leash obedience training.

When you move back to your dog, circle and step over the dog. These movements teach your dog to remain in position until you command it to do otherwise.

If your dog does not respond correctly and consistently to commands, return to the preliminary off-leash exercises and repeat them as often as required. When commanded by the handler, each dog must execute the tasks of Sit, Down, Heel, and Stay. These must be performed both at the handler’s side and at a distance of at least 10 feet away.

Advanced Obedience. Advanced obedience trains the dog to execute commands given at a distance, off leash. To begin off-leash training, you must execute the basic commands and movements with the dog at your side (This process gives you the opportunity to test the dog’s reliability and revert to the use of the long or short leash to correct deficiencies.). These exercises continue until you feel your dog will perform without hostility among other teams. As training progresses, gradually increase the distance between you and your dog while giving commands.

The dog’s performance determines how far away the handler should be. Usually 50 feet is the maximum distance.

When you move toward your dog, circle around, step over, or jump over your dog. These movements teach the dog that it must remain in position until otherwise commanded. At this stage of training, a minimum of corrections should be necessary. If your dog does not respond correctly and consistently to commands, you must return to the preliminary off-leash exercises and repeat them as often as required.

4.2. OBSTACLE COURSE NAVIGATION. As an MWD team becomes proficient in basic obedience and associated tasks, introduce the obstacle course for the purpose of building the dog‘s confidence in negotiating similar obstacles the dog may encounter in the field. The obstacle course also conditions the dog and builds handler confidence in the dog‘s abilities. The determining factors for length of time spent and frequency of obstacle course use include dog's age, physical condition, and weather conditions. A newly qualified 3-level MWD received from the 341 TRS will understand how to navigate obstacles, but have yet to perform obedience commands during obstacle course navigation. It will be the responsibility of the operational field to further advance the MWD.

Tunnels. The purpose is to teach a MWD to move through an obstacle of a more confined space.

One can achieve this, preferably starting with tunnels shorter in length. One trainer can hold the

MWD at one end of the tunnel and the other trainer can call the MWD from the other end. It may be necessary to entice the MWD with a reward for initial trials. If a single trainer is used, the trainer may throw a reward through the tunnel for initial trials.

Hurdles. The purpose is to teach a MWD to jump an obstacle it may encounter. One can achieve this by guiding the MWD with the leash over the obstacle. The trainer may throw a reward over the obstacle and proceed to command “Hup” sending the MWD over the obstacle. A second trainer may show a reward from the opposite side when the MWD is two feet from the hurdle. Once the dog becomes accustomed to this procedure and displays understanding, the trainer can begin to extinct the reward. Things to also consider, the height of the obstacle and different types of hurdles a MWD may encounter. For example, chain-linked hurdle, windows, wood board hurdles, see through barriers. A MWD may be able to proficiently navigate one kind of hurdle or one of a certain height, but may not necessarily perform a different type hurdle to that level of proficiency.

A-Frame. The purpose is to teach a MWD to scale an obstacle rather than jump it. To avoid jumping behaviors one can start closer to the base of the obstacle to ensure the MWD will climb the obstacle. The process would be same if a second trainer was required, with the exception that the second trainer would hold the reward at the top of the frame to entice the MWD to climb up.

As the MWD climbs up the top, the second trainer will entice the dog down the opposite side of the A-Frame.

Stairs. The purpose is to teach a MWD to climb an obstacle. This can be achieved by being close to the base of the obstacle and utilizing the leash to guide the MWD over the obstacle. A second trainer can be utilized to entice the MWD over the obstacle. Successive approximation and/or a variable reward schedule should be considered if MWD displays difficulty navigating this task.

Catwalk: The purpose is to teach a MWD to navigate an obstacle and walk the length of the catwalk in a calm manner rather than jump off it. This can be achieved by being close to the base of the catwalk and utilizing the leash to guide the MWD along the obstacle. The trainer may also use the other hand to hold the opposite side of the dog, to prevent the MWD from falling off.

Another method to consider is the use of a second trainer. The process would be the same but the second trainer would simply entice the MWD (with a reward) the length of the catwalk. Successive approximation could be used if the MWD has difficulty navigating this obstacle.

4.3. ELECTRONIC COLLAR TECHNIQUES. Electronic collars are devices that deliver a high-voltage but very, very low-amperage electric shock to the skin of the dog‘s neck through electrodes. They are operated remotely by means of a hand-held transmitter on which there are intensity settings and buttons which trigger continuous or momentary shocks through the collar and sometimes beeps and tones (markers) that aid the dog in understanding what is required of it.

This electrical shock is like a static electrical discharge from the carpet; it is similar to, but much weaker than, the shock delivered by a livestock fence. This shock may be uncomfortable, but it

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