True or False: Military dogs go wherever their handlers go, including parachuting!

Answer: True

Today, about 1,600 four-legged warriors, also known as military working dogs (MWDs), work with their handlers to help keep our nation safe. Since WWII, MWDs can now be found working in all branches of the service, being trained to participate in missions covering land, air and sea. 

MWDs and their handlers both undergo thorough training, and as you might expect, they develop a deep bond with each other. Because MWDs need to be prepared for many situations, they’re trained to be familiar and confident with the sights, sounds and sensations they could encounter. For example, they may need to be hoisted into a helicopter alongside their handler or parachute or rappel to the ground with their handler in remote areas. Once on the ground, they’ll work with their handler to patrol military bases or sniff out explosives or narcotics. 

Military dogs are dedicated companions, accomplished heroes and have fearlessly saved countless lives alongside their handlers.

Find out how Army veterinarians, like Dr. Leah Smith, help military working dogs. >>