MPK9 Statement of Work_23Mar11_FINAL.docx

MARSOC Multi-Purpose Canine (MPK9) and Handlers Training

General: The Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) has established a Multi-Purpose Canine (MPK9) program utilizing specially trained canines to support its mission. To sustain this program, the Government requires a contractor with the capability of providing a Special Operations Forces Multi-Purpose Canine Handlers Course utilizing the latest methodologies in the Canine Community.

Purpose: This document outlines the requirements for training of new and experienced K-9 handlers, and the procedures for contractors submitting dogs for evaluation and procurement by MARSOC. It is intended to provide specific guidance to contractors, and document the Government’s and the contractor’s responsibilities in the K-9 team (dog and handler) training and dog procurement / training process. The successful contractor(s) shall supply canines and provide training of K-9 teams per the specific requirements set forth in this document.

SOF MPK9 Handlers Course:

1. The contractor shall provide a Multi-Purpose Canine Handlers Course that will:

(a) Train a Marine with no canine experience, to handle a multi-purpose canine in all basic and combat situations in 8 to 10 weeks.

(b) Provide pre-trained Multi-Purpose Canines capable of on and off leash forensic Explosive Ordinance Detection (EOD) for area, route/road, vehicle and building clearance, Sensitive Site Exploitation (SSE), pursuit, tracking/trailing, patrol/bite-work, close quarter combat apprehension, and bite and hold capability to restrain fleeing subjects by using less than lethal means.

2. Course requirements:

(a) The course shall be capable of training and sustaining two to six (2-6) handlers and canines per class with a maximum of four students (handlers) per instructor. The Government anticipates requirements for:

1) Handler-canine packages when the contractor provides new handler training, canine and equipment.

2) Handler-only training packages when the Government provides a fully- trained dog and the contractor provides handler training and equipment.

3) Handler-only training packages when the Government provides a fully- trained dog and equipment.

(b) The Government will determine the dates for the classes and provide no less than 30 days notice prior to a requirement being levied. The Government anticipates requirements for the next five years to be: at least two Handler-canine courses per year for an ‘at least’ total of 4-6 students per year. The Government has no estimate for Handler-only training packages.

(c) The contractor shall provide all handlers with all equipment required for training that is not otherwise identified as Government-furnished. Government supplied equipment is all weapons and tactical gear to include if necessary blank ammunition equipment. The contractor shall replace, free of charge, any contractor provided equipment that is damaged or fails during course performance, except in the event of negligence on the part of the student handler.

(d) Contractor personnel shall possess the skills, knowledge, experience, and training to perform the services required. Contract instructor personnel must hold current Canine Handler Training Certifications from nationally recognized organizations (e.g., DoD, Department of Homeland Security, North American Police Working Dog Association, and/or Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); other certifications may be accepted upon review and approval by the Government). Contractor instructors/trainers shall utilize and understand all applications and techniques used in current canine training, consisting of: the tracking techniques listed in this document, four-box variable for imprinting of new K9’s, all levels of Patrol/Bite training, and teaching bite and hold techniques. All training will be monitored by Government personnel to ensure compliance with the requirements stated herein.

1) Equipment supplied by the contractor to each student for the Handler-canine and Handler-only packages shall include but not be limited to:

a. One (1), 6’ Braided leather leash.

b. One (1), Choke chain of appropriate length.

c. One (1), 30’x1” Tracking leash.

d. One (1), Leather collar, appropriate length x 2” wide.

e. One (1), Leather agitation muzzle.

f. One (1), Nylon soft or Vet muzzle.

g. One (1), Wire muzzle.

h. One (1), Nylon tracking harness.

i. One (1), Tactical combat harness specific to the dog.

j. One (1), Leather traffic lead with quick release.

k. One (1), Hidden sleeve.

l. One (1), 9’ Stake-out chain.

m. One (1), 2 Qt Stainless steel bowl.

n. One (1), 3 Qt Stainless steel bowl.

o. One (1), Brush slicker or rake depending on the dogs coat.

p. One (1), Portable food/water bowl, anti-spill.

q. Two (2), 40lb bags of Veterinarian approved dog food.

r. One (1), FAA approved plastic transport kennel adequate for the dog.

s. One (1), bite suit of appropriate weight and of correct size to the student/handler. Suit cannot have any Velcro in its construction and should be made of a “self healing” fabric.

t. Two (2), Secondary rewards (e.g., jute tug, fire hose tug, etc.).

u. Two (2), Primary rewards (e.g., tennis ball, kong ball, etc.).

v. One (1), Bamboo baton.

w. One (1), German Steel Pinch Collar.

2) All items are subject to approval by the Government. Vendors utilized by the Government in the past, for equipment listed in paragraph 1) above, include: Signature K9, K9 Storm, Ray Allen, Demanet, Amish leather, Elite K9, Eagle Industries, and Tactical Applications Group. Proposal shall include recommended brand types for approval prior to award.

(e) The contractor shall provide pre-trained multi-purpose dogs as set forth in this document. The Government, at their option, may also bring any dog that meets their requirement to the course. To ensure successful completion of training, the contractor shall maintain a sufficient number of trained dogs to be used as spares in case a dog in training needs to be replaced. The replacement dogs will train with the primary dogs and shall be capable of replacing a primary dog should the primary be injured, fail to perform for the assigned handler, or fail initial qualification training.

(f) The contractor shall provide a list of licensed veterinary facilities in the area for selection and approval for use by the Government in case of veterinarian emergency. A map showing distance from the training kennels and lodging as well as contact information shall be provided to the students as part of the course material.

(g) The Contractor shall develop a partial Program of Instruction (POI) and shall submit it with their proposal. The partial POI shall demonstrate a basic understanding of the SOW without stating the SOW ‘word-for-word’. The Contractor shall develop a complete Program of Instruction (POI) to be approved by the MARSOC MPK9 Program Manager 15 days prior to execution of the course. The approved POI shall consist of practical instruction that will be taught both in the classroom and in the field. Students and dogs will work day and night iterations through-out the course. They will also be introduced to many distracters (gunfire, livestock, personnel, equipment, machinery, etc.) and stressors to make the handler think on his feet and apply the appropriate skill necessary to accomplish the given tasks. Tasks will be designed to stress the K9 team to ensure proper socialization while operating alongside other humans and dogs. The approved POI shall include, but is not limited to, the following objectives:

1) Tracking/Trailing in Urban and Rural Terrain. This shall be conducted on various surfaces (grass, sand, gravel, asphalt, woods, etc.). Upon course completion, both student and dog must be able to perform a track that will be at least thirty minutes old and will have one cross track. The track should have at least three surface changes and a minimum of two turns. The track will be at least 800 yards but not more than 1,000 yards. The starting points will be out of buildings, vehicles, aircraft and other random locations. Tracks should end in both passive and aggressive end states. Students shall be instructed on all tracking techniques which include; ground scenting, air scenting, trailing, pre-scenting and article searching.

2) Explosives Detection. Both handler and dog shall be able to productively search for explosives both on and off leash with a passive alert (Sit only) for explosives. Dogs shall have been imprinted by the box method (protocol/four-box variable). Heights and depths of training aids shall vary with nothing more than 6’ high and 3’ deep. A 95% proficiency rate of each odor required to be detected must be obtained prior to the end of the course.

a. All of the following locations can be used for explosive training as available. Vendor must have available a minimum of five of the eight different types of training areas below, and sixteen different areas in total. Areas may also be used for other aspects of training however, these are the minimums required for detection. Areas shall be owned, or leased for use by the contractor.

(1) Roadways (minimum of 500 meters).

(2) Warehouses.

(3) Buildings: any structure with a minimum of 5000 square feet (other than warehouses, barracks/dormitories, and theaters).

(4) Vehicles (minimum of 5). Doors, windows, hoods, trunks and other compartments may be opened or closed.

(5) Barracks/Dormitories (8 rooms minimum). Doors to rooms may be opened and/or closed.

(6) Aircraft (interior and/or exterior).

(7) Theaters.

(8) Open Areas (urban/rural); (minimum 50m x 50m).

b. Canines shall be trained using actual explosive substances. The use of pseudo scent kits and Non-Hazardous Explosives for Security Training and Testing (NESTT) is prohibited. A minimum of the following odors will be used during training.

(1) C-4, military or civilian

(2) TNT

(3) Black Powder

(4) Smokeless Powder

(5) Sodium Chlorate

(6) Potassium Chlorate

(7) Ammonium Nitrate

(8) PETN- Det Cord

(9) Pyrodex

(10) Comp-B

c. During training, occupied locations will be used if available. An occupied location is defined as one where human and associated odors are present. This will allow the Government Evaluator the opportunity to determine the dog’s ability to distinguish between explosive and human distracting odors.

d. A final detection evaluation will be used to demonstrate proficiency prior to the end of the course. At least three of the acceptable training areas will be used. Each dog will be allowed 1 miss and no more than two false responses (not in the same area). The 1 miss will not be allowed if it causes the MPK9 Team to go below the required 95% proficiency. Training records will also show at least a 95% proficiency in detecting each required odor.

3) Tactical Obedience. Students shall have a basic understanding of European Sport Dog Training Programs such as the Dutch Royal Police Dog Program (KNPV). Dogs and students shall be instructed on agility, obedience and obstacle course training, with the emphasis being on combat related tasks such as long downs, vertical/horizontal carries, ladder climbs, window entries and tactical movements. Obedience training will be conducted in full combat gear to make it realistic for the dog and handler. The following is a list of the minimum number and types of obstacles that must be provided for training.

a. Short wall/hurdle three (3) to four (4) feet in height.

b. Window Jump/hurdle – a standard window jump/hurdle shall be used.

c. Tunnel – a tunnel with an inside diameter of twenty four (24) inches and a minimum of ten (10) and a maximum of twenty (20) feet in length shall be used.

d. Dog Walk.

e. Stairs.

f. A-Frame.

g. The handler will complete each of the following with his dog:

(1) Negotiation of an eight (8) foot wall.

(2) Negotiation of a twelve-foot ladder onto a rooftop.

4) Bite/Muzzle Work. Students shall be instructed on effective decoy and agitator techniques. The dogs and students shall also be instructed on muzzle fighting techniques and how to draw the dog from equipment to a man. The dogs must show confidence in engaging an agitator/decoy while wearing a muzzle with no other equipment worn or visible by the decoy. The dogs must effectively engage dead prey as well. Prior to graduation the dogs must successfully engage a passive decoy wearing a hidden sleeve.

5) Building Searches. Students and dogs shall conduct building clearing operations both on and off leash. The dogs shall be expected to bite and hold any live enemy personnel (passive or aggressive) that are in the building. The dog must be social and show no more than passing interest during entry to other team members.

6) Area Search for Personnel and Explosives. The dogs and students shall be expected to search areas and routes for explosives and personnel both on and off leash. Additionally, students shall be instructed on terrain analysis and search techniques.

7) Health and Care of a Working Dog. Daily maintenance and care of canines shall be taught and enforced throughout the course. Students shall be instructed on first aid and basic trauma care for dogs with practical applications being conducted during the course. Example of a common case would be bloat symptoms and treatment. Basic health and grooming techniques and first aid shall also be taught, including how to identify and treat various illnesses, parasites, heat injury, and bloating.

8) Mounted and Dismounted Infiltration. Students and dogs shall be expected to move into objective areas mounted in a variety of vehicles. Dogs must have a neutral demeanor in vehicles and show no aggression to other personnel. Additionally, the MPK9 Team (handlers and dogs) shall be required to walk at least four kilometers with full combat equipment to and from the objective and still be able to perform at the objective.

9) Combat Mission Scenarios. Periodic real world mission scenarios shall be conducted throughout the course. These scenarios shall involve a variety of combat related sounds and distractions (e.g., non-combatants, live stock, food, etc.). The intent of these mission scenarios will be to teach the handlers how to overcome a problem associated with K9 employment rather than teaching specific Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTP’s).

10) Dog handling techniques (on and off leash). These techniques will include animal behavior and how different forms of conditioning are used to train and handle a dog. Emphasis should be placed on how the handlers presence, tone of voice, and body position effect the dog during training and employment.

11) Proper decoying techniques and the importance of it role in the training and maintenance of a working dog.

12) Proper record keeping and its importance as it relates to training deficiencies and reporting.

(h) Both handler and canine must complete the course together. If this is not possible by no fault of the Government, then it will be up to the contractor to incur any additional costs associated with the completion of the course.

3. Lodging, Equipment and Equipment Storage.

(a) During the handlers course the contractor shall provide airline approved transportation kennels and/or trailers as described in OPNAVINST 5585.2B and DA PAM 190-2 for the use of moving dogs to and from training sites.

(b) A licensed storage facility for Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) (such as weapons and ammunition) shall be provided by the contractor for use during the course. Instructors or staff shall be certified in the state in which they will operate to handle weapons and ammunition not limited to the following:

1) M4 Carbine.

2) M9, M1911 or any other Government issued sidearm.

3) 9mm Ball ammunition.

4) 5.56mm Ball ammunition.

5) 5.56mm Blank ammunition.

(c) During the course, the contractor shall provide lodging for students and their dogs. Lodging of the handler and dog must be together, which increases the handler/dog bond and efficiency in training. The lodging cost shall not exceed the Government approved per diem rate for the area. Lodging shall be included in the contractor’s final proposal prices, included in the handler training package prices. Linen charges and cleaning services shall be provided by the contractor. Phone and internet connection shall be provided for official Government use. Washer and dryers shall be readily available for washing of soiled clothes if service isn’t provided. Damages to lodging facility by dogs due to students’ negligence will be repaired at Government expense through an official claim in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). Civilian owned and operated lodging facilities are not acceptable due to security concerns surrounding the training taking place.

4. Contractor Instructor Certification.

(a) All contractor canine handlers providing training under this contract shall have successfully completed a nationally recognized canine handler course and have successfully completed a nationally recognized supervisor/instructor/ evaluator training course. Acceptable courses include: Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Homeland Security, United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) or Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (BATF), North American Police Working Dog Association, Explosive Detection Dog Handlers Course, etc. Courses must have consisted of a curriculum that exposed the instructor to, and required demonstrated proficiency and knowledge of, these subject areas:

1) Fundamentals and Handling Techniques for Explosive Detection Dogs, Patrol Dogs, and Tracking Dogs.

2) An exposure to and hands on familiarity with common Military and Commercial Explosives, including composition, combination and bases.

3) Fundamentals of Explosive Devices.

4) An overview of common Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) including recognition, structure and composition.

5) Protocol for the explosive search.

6) Preparation and manipulation of the security environment.

7) Execution of effective searches in various environments.

8) Setting up, preparing and executing training scenarios.

9) Preparing and maintaining documentation to ensure thorough maintenance and search training.

(b) Upon request the contractor shall provide copies of all instructor certificates to prove qualification of personnel performing instruction. All instructors shall be staff of the contractor and not on retainer or subcontracted.

5. Licensing Requirements.

(a) The contractor must be properly licensed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) to possess and store explosive substances and must have an approved magazine on-site at their kennel or training location for the storage of explosives.

(b) If such license is lost or revoked during the contract period, the Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) and the Contracting Officer within 72 hours.

6. Canine Assessment and Selection. The Contractor shall present to the Government canines meeting the minimum requirements outlined in the paragraphs below. Canine acceptance will be performed by Government personnel.

(a) Breed: The Belgian Malinois, Dutch Shepherd, and/or crosses of such breeds shall be the only acceptable Multi-Purpose Canine (MPK9).

(b) Age: Dogs shall be between the ages of 12 and 48 months at the time of the evaluation however, older dogs will be evaluated on a case by case basis.

(c) Sex: Male and female dogs are acceptable.

(d) Height: MPK9s shall not be less than 21 inches in height. Height shall be measured from the ground surface to the point of the shoulder blades.

(e) Weight: Weight shall be proportional to the dog’s frame and skeletal size. Dogs shall not be overweight or underweight for their conformation. Using the “Purina Body Condition System TM,” acceptable dogs shall be rated a four to seven with the ideal rating of five on the nine point scale.

(f) Color: Any color typical for the breed shall be acceptable.

7. Medical Requirements. The following is provided as a guideline for use in contractor MPK9 evaluation, assessment and selection. This is not a complete list; it does however, include the normal guidelines the Government will follow for acceptance of MPK9s for training and acquisition. In general, all dogs shall be in excellent health with no acute or chronic disease or condition, which could either hinder their ability to perform, or would be excessively costly to treat. At time of evaluation, normally one week prior to course start date, each animal shall be medically able to enter training.

(a) The cost of medical examinations and service performed by private veterinarians during the initial screening or during the contracted course will not be reimbursed by the Government.

(b) Medical Screening before Training: Contractors shall submit diagnostic elbow (lateral and AP) and hip (lateral and VD) radiographs to the MARSOC Veterinary Corps Officer for evaluations of elbow and hip conformation. MARSOC reserves the option to retake any non-diagnostic radiographs at Government expense. The review of elbow and hip radiographs may help the contractor determine whether to present the dog for evaluation. Minimum data projected or imprinted permanently on the radiograph at the time of exposure shall include dog identification (name, tattoo/brand number, and/or microchip number), whelping date (or age at time of radiographic examination), and date of examination.

(c) Once dogs are selected by the contractor as prospects for acquisition, the MARSOC Veterinary Corp Officer shall examine all dogs that have been presented. This evaluation will include complete physical examination; collection of blood, urine, and fecal samples for routine testing; testing for anesthesia and review of radiographs of the hips and elbows. Laboratory availability may affect the Veterinary Officer’s ability to perform specific tests. The minimum laboratory database shall include: Urine Specific Gravity, Blood Urea Nitrogen, Blood Glucose, White Blood Cell Differential or Absolute Count, Packed Cell Volume and Total Solids. The Veterinary Corps Officer shall assess abnormalities to determine the presence of acute or chronic disease processes that may have long-term medical care implications for the dog. If further evaluation is warranted, tests may be completed at the discretion of the Veterinary Corps Officer (VCO) or, the dog may be deemed unacceptable. Additional medical testing (to include blood chemistry, CT and MRI) may be completed at the request of the VCO. The Government will be responsible for any reasonable costs associated with any additional testing that needs to be performed. The following areas will be evaluated closely. Not all disqualifying features are noted.

1) Gait: All dogs shall display normal mobility at a walk and run. Dogs will be disqualified for gait abnormality, which could affect the dog’s ability to perform normal MPK9 duties.

2) Skin and Coat: Skin and coat shall be healthy in appearance, displaying no evidence of severe, non-resolving or intractable otitis external or dermatitis, allergies, infections, injuries or marked external parasite infestation (e.g., mange, fleas, etc.). A matted, unthrifty coat of hair may not be grounds for disqualification but will raise concern about the dog’s general health.

3) Teeth and Jaw: Dogs shall have normal dentition and dental occlusion, not overshot or undershot jaws. All four canine teeth must be present and shall not be weakened by notching, enamel hyperplasia or abnormal, excessive wear. They shall not have more than 1/3 inch of the tip missing or have pulp cavity exposed. Oral infection or excessive periodontal disease may be grounds for disqualifying a dog. Broken teeth or excessively worn teeth may be disqualifying as well. Broken teeth may be repaired at the contractor’s expense.

4) Heart and Lungs: Heart sounds, rate and rhythm shall be normal (e.g., no murmurs, arrhythmia, etc.). In general the cardiovascular and respiratory system shall be normal at rest and upon exercise.

5) Limbs and Joints: Any condition of the bones, joints or muscles that might hamper or restrict the normal performance of duty shall be grounds for disqualification. Examples include:

a. Unhealed fractures and healed fractures resulting in significant bone or joint conformation changes or lameness.

b. Ligament, damage, osteoarthritis, etc., of the limb joints.

c. Previous musculoskeletal injury which has or may lead to degenerative joint disease or conformational abnormality.

d. Transitional vertebrae of the caudal lumbar spine, lumbosacral junction or sacrum. Asymmetric pelvic attachment is also disqualifying.

e. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia.

6) Nervous System and Basic Senses: Any defect in the nervous system, to include the basic senses of vision, hearing and sense of smell, is disqualifying. Examples include, but are not limited to opacities of the cornea, eyelid deformities, cataracts, retinal degeneration, chronic otitis, acute or chronic rhinitis/sinusitis and spinal disease.

7) Heartworms: All dogs submitted for purchase shall be free of heartworms (Dirofilariabnmitis). The presence of heartworm infection shall be determined by using the heartworm antigen test. A negative heartworm concentration test (filtration of Knott’s) is not sufficient evidence to declare the animal heartworm-free.

8) Intestinal Parasitism: Infection with intestinal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, etc.) may not be disqualifying, depending on the level of infection and the overall condition of the animal. Presence of intestinal parasites is, however, an indication of poor care and will raise concern about the dog’s general health and facility quality.

9) External Parasitism: Presence of fleas, ticks, or lice may not be disqualifying, depending on the amount of infestation, the degree of associated skin disease, and the overall condition of the dog. Presence of external parasites is, however, an indication of poor care and will raise concern about the dog’s general health.

10) Immunization: All dogs presented shall have been vaccinated within the previous 12 months for rabies, canine distemper, canine adenovirus (TYPE 2), corona virus, para influenza, parvovirus and leptospirosis. A vaccination certificate with individual dog identification (name, tattoo, and brand or microchip#) shall be provided on all dogs presented for acquisition. This facilitates health certificate preparation, if the dog is to be returned to the contractor for disqualifying reasons.

11) Socialized: All dogs presented shall be socialized to medical examinations. Dogs that cannot be properly examined due to poor socialization will be rejected. Rejected dogs can be re-submitted after behavior has been modified to allow medical examination.

12) Reproductive and Urinary System: Any congenital or conformational abnormality is disqualifying, if the defect requires long-term medical treatment or results in an expected shortened working life of the dog. (e.g., Cryptochidism is not disqualifying unless the retained testicle results in medical complications not treatable by simple orchidectomy. A juvenile vulva resulting in urine scalding is disqualifying.)

8. Evaluating Potential Multi-Purpose Canines (MPK9). Potential dogs shall be evaluated on the following performances. The contractor shall provide all the necessary equipment needed for use in each performance (i.e., bite suit, balls, hidden sleeves and access to training areas).

(a) Defense Test (Defense Drive)

(b) Non-threat Bite

(c) Threatening Bite

(d) Gunfire/Explosions (Distractions)

(e) Courage Test

(f) Agitation Table

(g) Runaways

(h) Tennis/Rubber Ball or Kong Evaluation (Toy)

(i) Possessiveness

(j) Hunt Drive

(k) Willingness to Engage (Strike)

(l) Focus (Equipment vs. Man)

(m) Calmness after Target Acquisition

(n) Detection Capabilities: The dog shall maintain strong drive and stamina throughout the entire evaluation. The dog shall be trained to detect explosive odors in buildings, night stands, dresser drawers, beds, pallets, cardboard boxes, vehicles, roadways (surface and buried) and other areas to predict trainability. The dog must show odor recognition and independent sniffing/searching behavior to detect an odor, and must have the ability to respond in a passive response (sit).

a. All potential dogs should be trained on a minimum of ten odors. During the evaluation and, at the discretion of the selection team, two odors will be randomly selected for evaluation purposes.

b. For the initial testing the Four-hole Variable method will be used. The evaluation shall take place inside of a building with slick floors (wooden and tile). The dog shall be allowed three trials to warm up on the odor it is trained on before the evaluation starts. The dog shall complete 12 consecutive positive, unassisted trials in the same day, utilizing the four-hole variable box sequence. The dog must make the correct final response (sit) without any assistance from the trainer or without cues from the handler, and remain in final response while the trainer presents the next box. A dog must not move from the box where the odor is located when the trainer presents the next box. A dog that consistently makes the correct response using the four hole variable evaluation and presents a good sniffing behavior in a room (with wall lockers, nightstands, and dressers), shall be considered for purchase.

c. Potential multi-purpose dogs that are inconsistent in detecting and responding to odor, do not present a good sniffing behavior, and fail to meet the criteria as potential multi-purpose dogs (as outlined in Section 2 of this document) will not be accepted. Dogs trained on odors must make the correct final response (sit) without any assistance or cues (e.g., trainer stopping or slowing down in front of the box where the odor is located, making hand gestures or eye contact, etc.). Dogs trained on odors must perform the task independent of the trainer.

(o) Different Surfaces and Conditions: After successfully completing the above evaluations, dogs shall be tested with their reward on different surfaces and conditions such as hard floors, slick floors, stairs, tight areas, open grated stairs and grates, water, basements and dark locations. These evaluations shall be accomplished by using cardboard boxes, buildings, nightstands, drawers, dressers, beds and other obstacles as deemed necessary. Additionally, dogs shall be evaluated to determine if they can be muzzled and placed in crates and kennels.

9. Common Disqualifying Conditions. The following list is provided as a guideline of examples for contractors presenting dogs to the Government for purchase. It is not intended to be a complete list. Common disqualifying conditions include but are not limited to:

(a) Over-aggressive dogs that are unable to work around people or other dogs or that aggress on the trainer.

(b) Dogs that cannot be muzzled.

(c) Dogs that is difficult to crate or uncrate.

(d) Dogs that exhibit excessive panting not due to heat or exercise.

(e) Dogs that is afraid, nervous or shy around people.

(f) Dogs that exhibit sensitivity or fear to surroundings such as inside of building with different types of floor surfaces, stairs, dark rooms or confining areas.

(g) Dogs that shows very little or no odor recognition.

(h) Dogs with low drive or that does not have the desire to complete the task.

(i) Dogs that are easily distracted by noise, people or other dogs in the area.

(j) Dogs that do not perform to the standards during the evaluation.

10. Training Location. The Contractor’s training location shall have available a minimum of four separate training areas for Patrol, OB, and Tracking to prevent saturation and repetition. Training shall vary daily and weekly and progress from day to night. Training facilities/aides shall have a recommended fifteen (15) different types (e.g., compact car, sedan, cargo van, truck, farm tractor, etc.) of vehicles for searching, multiple rooms, and various floor surfaces to include stairs (open and closed). Tracking shall be on concrete/asphalt areas, near traffic, heavily vegetated areas (with water), and other types of surfaces to expose the dog to realistic training. Acceptable training areas are:

(a) Roadways (minimum of 500 meters).

(b) Warehouses.

(c) Buildings: any structure with a minimum of 5000 square feet (other than warehouses, barracks/dormitories, and theaters).

(d) Vehicles (minimum of 5). Doors, windows, hoods, trunks and other compartments may be opened or closed.

(e) Barracks/Dormitories (8 rooms minimum). Doors to rooms may be opened and/or closed.

(f) Aircraft (interior and/or exterior).

(g) Theaters.

(h) Open Areas (urban/rural); (minimum 50m x 50m).

11. POI Standards/Gates. Every week there shall be a one-on-one After Action Review (AAR) from the trainer to the handler to assess how they are progressing. In accordance with the approved program of instruction, the MPK9 Team should meet standards/gates every week. If for some reason they are not meeting the standard, the Government will be notified of who, what, and the remedial action and timeline to correct identified issues. Once this timeline is determined, the Government will monitor corrective training for the time allotted. If the issues cannot be correct in the time allotted and the dog is the reason for continued issues, the dog will be immediately exchanged with one of the spare dogs. Due to the condensed training timeline, the handlers do not have the time to work through lengthy behavior, nerve, or environmental issues.

12. Canine Certifications and Training. At the conclusion of the course both handler and dog will meet the basic certification requirement as provided below. Obedience and controlled aggression evaluations may be conducted in any training location at the Evaluator’s discretion. For obedience and controlled aggression evaluations, the dog will wear some sort of chain collar or flat leather collar. An electronic/remote training collar may also be worn in addition to the other collars however; the electronic features of the collar can not be used during the evaluation process. Other unit specific gear may be worn on the MPK9 as well. The handler will be in full combat equipment for all portions of certification.

(a) Obedience and Obedience Course handling standards:

1) Obedience tasks will be performed once on leash and then once off-leash.

2) The handler may use voice commands only, gesture/hand commands only, or combine the two. Ideally, the MPK9 will respond immediately to commands, and only one command (“Sit!” or “Sit! Stay!”) will be required to execute any skill. Additional commands will be considered faults, and excessive extra commands (determined at the Evaluator’s discretion) may result in failure.

3) In principle, all on leash exercises are to be performed with a loose leash so that no leash tension, pressure, or corrections are required for performance of the skills. Instances of leash tension, or pressure, or corrections will be considered faults, and excessive reliance upon the leash (determined at the Evaluator’s discretion) may result in failure.

4) The handler may not carry food or any reward object on his person while performing certification tasks. In addition, from the time that the Evaluator arrives in the area, the dogs are considered to be under evaluation, and the handlers shall not play with the dogs with balls, kongs, tugs, or similar toys.

5) During certification, a premium will be placed on the MPK9s’ attitude towards work and motivation to perform tasks for the handler. Dogs exhibiting willingness to work, “joyfulness,” positive response to praise, and attentiveness to the handler, will be regarded favorably while dogs exhibiting apprehension, inhibition, fear, avoidance, or inattentiveness will be regarded unfavorably. Obvious fear of the handler or gross inattentiveness may be cause for failure at the Evaluator’s discretion.

6) The Evaluator may exert as much or as little control over the progress of the exercises as he deems necessary, including telling the handler when to begin tasks and when they are finished. When the Evaluator has notified the handler that an exercise is finished, the handler may praise the dog, and/or release the dog from position (with the command “OK” or some similar release command) and praise the animal enthusiastically if he deems desirable.

7) The Obedience (Obstacle/Agility) Course is to be performed with the MPK9 maneuvering under the control of the handler between obstacles. The MPK9 Team will negotiate and complete the following:

a. Short wall/hurdle three (3) to four (4) feet in height.

b. Window Jump/hurdle – a standard window jump/hurdle shall be used.

c. Tunnel – a tunnel with an inside diameter of twenty four (24) inches and a minimum of ten (10) and a maximum of twenty (20) feet in length shall be used.

d. Dog Walk.

e. Stairs.

f. A-Frame.

g. The handler will complete each of the following with his dog:

(1) Negotiation of an eight (8) foot wall.

(2) Negotiation of a twelve-foot ladder onto a rooftop.

8) Heeling. The dog must remain in the heel position (shoulder roughly even with handler’s knee, neither making excessive contact with the handler’s leg nor further than approximately one foot from the handler’s leg) while the handler performs facing and marching movements (consisting of two right turns, two left turns, two about turns, and two halts, in any order and at the Evaluator’s discretion). The handler may give the “Heel!” command at the beginning of the exercise when beginning to march, and whenever changing direction. The dog should sit in heel position automatically when the handler halts, without any additional command.

9) Down from Heel. The dog should assume the down position upon command while maintaining correct position at heel. Radical shifts of position (e.g., moving directly in front of, or behind, or away from the handler) may result in failure.

10) Stay. Dog must maintain last commanded position until further instructions.

11) Recall to Heel. K9 will return to the heel position upon command from a minimum of 10’ feet away. In principle the handler should not be obliged to move his feet or body in order to cause the dog to place itself at heel position. Inability to return to heel position without such handler "help" may result in failure. Similarly, inability to return to heel position without leash pressure or several additional commands may also result in failure.

(b) Criminal Apprehension/Aggression Control:

a. In each of these categories the evaluator will determine if the dog is capable of performing in situations likely to be encountered in a tactical dog’s working environment. This test will demonstrate the handler’s control over his K9 and the dog’s courage ability. For the testing of the Criminal/Aggression Control phase a complete body bite suit will be used by the decoy.

b. Pursuit. The decoy will be at least twenty-five (25) yards away from the dog and handler. The decoy will run away at the evaluator’s signal. The handler will then deploy the canine. The canine must pursue, bite solidly, and show the ability to hold the bite for a minimum of thirty (30) seconds while the decoy struggles/fights. When instructed by the evaluator, the handler shall take the canine off the bite strong, ending the pursuit phase.

c. Recall. The K9 will start in a heel position with a decoy positioned at a distance determined by the evaluator. Upon the evaluator’s command, the decoy will break and run in a direction away from the canine team. The evaluator will then instruct the handler to deploy his canine. In pursuit of the decoy at a predetermined location or on the command of the evaluator, the decoy will stop and surrender terminating the pursuit. The handler will then take appropriate action to command his dog to cease the pursuit. The MPK9 Team will be given ample time and distance to properly perform the task.

4) Gun Fire. This test is used to ensure that the dog is not fearful or Gun-aggressive. This test will consist of two separate phases.

a. Phase one – a disinterested person will fire six (6) rounds of 5.56 blank ammunition at a distance of 15 meters while the MPK9 Team is doing obedience. The canine will be tested for aggression towards the handler and to see if he is fearful of the gunfire.

b. Phase two – The handler will move and shoot three (3) rounds from each of the following positions; standing, kneeling and prone position using cover. The dog will be tested for aggression towards the handler and also if he is calm enough not to interrupt the handler’s firing position. Barking will be allowed as along as the dog is under control.

5) Muzzle Apprehension. This phase of testing is used simply to ensure that the K9 will engage a human without seeing or smelling any type of protective equipment being worn by a decoy. The decoy shall wear civilian clothing or clothing being worn by the enemy within the current theater of operations. For this test the dog will be muzzled.

a. The MPK9 Team will be approach by a decoy that appears aggressive and will then flee. The handler will then command his canine to engage the decoy. The dog should pursue and engage the decoy. The handler will remain at least twenty feet from the decoy for a minimum of thirty (30) seconds. When instructed by the evaluator, the handler shall take the canine off strong. This shall complete this phase.

6) Building Search. This phase is designed to test the dog’s ability to locate a person hidden from sight in a building. The decoy will be hidden from sight and in an area the canine will have access to. The building utilized for the test will be inspected and suitable to the evaluator:

a. For the purpose of this test one of the following locations will be chosen.

a. Residential buildings

b. Schools

c. Warehouses

d. Office buildings

b. The evaluator will choose the hide location of the decoy and will also pick the starting point for the canine team to begin the search. The dog must remain quiet until given the command to search. The search shall be done off lead. The canine must alert the handler to the location of the decoy with acceptable alert being given. Alerts can be the following;

(1) Pawing

(2) Scratching

(3) Barking

c. The evaluator will have the final say as to when the test is completed. Failure of the test may be for, but not limited to, the following:

a. The canine refuses to search

b. The canine stops searching

c. The canine fails to give an alert to the suspect’s location

d. If the evaluator feels too much time has elapsed

7) Area Search. The area search test is designed to test the MPK9 Team’s ability to detect the location of a subject hidden from sight in a large area with no know track available to the canine. The test will also determine if the team is using wind currents to their advantage.

a. The decoy will hide in an area at the direction of the evaluator. As a rule, the suspect (decoy) should hide fifteen minutes prior to the start of the testing. The area and the amount of time that will be allotted for the test will be at the discretion of the evaluator.

b. For the canine to pass the area search test, the dog must find and give an indication as to the location of the decoy. The appropriate indications are:

(1) Decoy visible: Engage the suspect

(2) Decoy Not Visible/Hidden: Bark/Scratch/Pull (Must be in close proximity)

c. The evaluator will have the final say as to when the test is completed. Failure of the test may be for, but not limited to the following:

(1) The canine refuses to search

(2) The canine stops searching

(3) The canine fails to give an alert at the suspect’s location

(4) If the evaluator feels too much time has elapsed.

8) Tracking/Trailing. This test is designed to test the proficiency of the MPK9 Team to follow a track and locate a subject.

a. For tracking evaluations, the dog will wear a flat collar and some type of tracking harness (nylon or leather) with a 30 foot nylon tracking leash. Electronic/remote training collars may be worn for certification evaluation, but the electronic feature will not be used.

b. The track will be at least thirty minutes old and will have one cross track. The track should have at least three surface (grass, sand, gravel, asphalt, wood, etc.) changes and a minimum of two turns. The track will be at least 800 yards but not more than 1,000 yards. The person laying the track will follow the instructions of the evaluator. The final stopping point of the track will allow the person who has laid the track to be out of sight of the MPK9 Team.

c. The MPK9 Team shall be presented with the general area where the track has been laid. Scent pads shall not be used by the tracklayer. The test will begin after the handler gives the command to track. Over-shooting turns shall not be considered faulty as long as the team is able to maintain the track or is able to re-establish it within a reasonable amount of time.

d. If the canine cannot find his quarry and lost the trail/scent then that will constitute a failure.

(c) Explosives Detection Certification:

1) The evaluator has discretion to determine the schedule and locations for detection certification.

2) A MPK9 Team will be allowed only two attempts at detection certification. If the canine fails certification, then the handler and canine shall be recycled through the required training at the contractors’ expense.

3) If the K9 has two (2) false responses in an individual training location (e.g., Warehouse, Barracks, Vehicles), the dog will have failed the detection portion of certification. (Note that a dog can pass certification with up to two false responses as long as they do not occur in the same training location).

4) The training aids shall be hidden at heights from zero to six feet, and depths from zero to three feet.

5) All training aids shall be hidden from view and have, at a minimum, a 15-minute “sit time” before the dog begins to search. The evaluator for the training team in question, or a trainer who is not handling a dog in the certification, can assist in placement/setting of the training aids.

6) At least one search problem shall require the dog to work at least 25-30 minutes. A MPK9 must show the capability to complete all searches and will not be allowed a rest-break any time prior to the 25 minutes (exceptions may be made at the discretion of the evaluator). Exceptions that may be but not limiting consideration are:

a. Has MPK9 Team fatigued or potentially failing due to other portions of certification being conducted directly before this certification problem.

b. Dramatic changes in weather with the last 24-48 hours that may cause issues with the dog’s stamina.

7) In the event that multiple K9’s in a certification make a common error (such as false respond in the same location or miss the same training aid) adjustments to the certification “schedule” may be made at the evaluator’s discretion (i.e., false responses can be ignored, or a problematic aid placement can be “thrown out” and compensated for with an additional aid placement later in the certification).

8) The canine must indicate the presence and location of the training aid using a passive response (also called final response). The passive/final response will be a sit and/or down. A down will count in lieu of a sit if the dog has pinpointed an aid on or near the floor or when the dog has inserted itself under some obstacle in order to pinpoint the aid.

9) If a K9 completes the certification using all required locations and has no more than one miss and two false responses (not in the same area), then it will be considered to have passed the explosives detection portion of certification.

(d) Extended Certification: This may be granted at the evaluator’s discretion if an MPK9 Team fails one of the major phases of patrol training (e.g., Obedience/Obedience Course, Controlled Aggression, Building or Area Search, Scouting, Gunfire, Explosives Detection, and Tracking/Trailing). In extended certification, the MPK9 Team is re-evaluated within 48 hours on only those exercises/phases they failed, and if the MPK9 Team then successfully completes the exercises, the MPK9 Team will be considered certified as it pertains to the completion of this course.

1) The following are not acceptable faults that would warrant extended certification:

a. A dog’s obvious fear of the handler or gross inattentiveness during Obedience.

b. Canine makes oral contact with sleeve at the Recall.

c. K9 interrupts bite repeatedly, or bites very softly/feebly.

d. A dog’s failure to instantly and firmly bite the decoy during an attack.

e. Canine over aggressiveness to people or gunfire.

f. Change of location, “distraction” by bystanders, “distraction” by other dogs or dog-related stimuli, or any co-occurring events will not be accepted as extenuating circumstances mitigating a failed task during the certification process.

13. Return Policies of MPK9s. If within one year of purchase of the certified MPK9 an uncorrectable behavior has developed or has been discovered that was not detected during the assessment/evaluation and certification process, the MPK9 will be returned to the contractor. This includes but is not limited to environmental issues that were not presented during training based on availability of stimuli as well as any genetic or hip and elbow conditions that were not detectable at time of procurement. The contractor shall replace the dog with another fully-trained MPK9. The new MPK9 shall be subject to any and all previously stated criteria.

14. Quality Assurance:

(a) Maintenance requirements of canines by the contactor. The contactor shall ensure that established standards of medical care, training and canine well-being are maintained. Specifically, the contractor shall be responsible for the following:

1) Subject to scheduled and/or random testing by trained Government teams to assess proficiency in locating explosive devices. Testing shall be conducted at contractor facilities.

2) Ensuring the well-being and readiness of canines by establishing and maintaining medicine and healthy care of the canines.

3)…