Search And Rescue Dogs
Aaditya V.
How are search and rescue dogs trained and how do they work? What breed is the most common to train?
What is SARDUS?
SARDUS stands for Search And Rescue Dogs of the United States.
What is the Purpose?
SAR(search and rescue) dog is trained to locate the scent of any human in a specific search area. The Dogs Are trained to pick up scent of a live or dead human.
How It Works?
All humans, alive or dead, constantly emit microscopic particles bearing human scent. Millions of these are in the air and are carried by the wind for considerable distances. The air scenting SAR(search and rescue) dog is trained to locate the scent of any human in a specific search area. The dog is not restricted to the missing person's track and can search long after the track is obliterated. Many air scenting search dogs are also trained in trailing the scent of the people.
How are the trained?
Search and Rescue work requires an immense amount from the dog: intelligence, agility, stamina, drive, work ethic, confidence, and the ability to listen and respond to the handler. You want a dog that is focused and intense about playing. The best way I’ve ever heard this described is that you want a dog that will play ball or toys with anyone, anywhere, for any length of time without becoming distracted. This demonstrates a dog that has such a high level of focus and desire for his toy that he will eagerly work in difficult conditions for hours on end simply for his toy. Wilderness search dogs must be trained and certified in one of three methods: tracking, trailing ,air scent or cadaver. The initial training can be started quite early with a puppy and can really be a Hide N’ Seek type of game. We want the dog to be excited about finding someone, so often the owner or person closest to the dog is the first person to start the game with the dog.
Search & Rescue Dog Training
What is the most common breed?
The most common breeds are Border Collies, German Shepherds, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers. The reason they picked these breeds is that these breeds are the most intelligent dogs. The Dogs have to have patience and obedience. people use computers to communicate with the search and rescue dogs. The computer is Strapped to their vest.
Intelligent Dogs-
- Border Collie
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador Retriever