Both dog and handler are carefully selected and trained to ensure all the necessary skills are fully developed.

The course is physically and mentally demanding. The handlers must quickly learn new and varied subjects. Inputs are received from vets and representatives form the food manufacturers.

During 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 on command. A dog's natural abilities form the basis for many of the exercises in police dog training.

One of the most important natural instincts is the dog's willingness to please the pack leader. For the police dog this is the handler.

The police dog is constantly rewarded and praised for its hard work and receives first class 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.

Training will continue throughout the dog’s operational life, with emphasis on safety, efficiency and control. Re-licensing will occur annually, to ensure the required standards are maintained.