The 4-Day High Threat K-9 Patrol Tactics Course is designed to bridge the gap between basic patrol K-9 operations and advanced tactical deployments by developing both handlers and K-9 teams for high-threat law enforcement environments
Description
HTTG has identified a void in K9 training and developed a course that is intended to bridge the gap between “new” patrol dogs and trained handlers. High Threat K-9 Patrol Tactics course will prepare handlers or teams to better respond to the dynamic, high-threat world of K-9 operations by using practical and behaviorally compliant tactics and techniques. This 4-day course is designed for K-9 handlers or teams who ideally have experience and previous street deployments. This is not a “SWAT K-9” course, but it will train attendees on small unit strategies and procedures for patrol. The curriculum is based on both human and K9 behavior during complex real-world situations.
This K9 course may differ from others in design. The focus is not solely on the canine and its skills, rather both the handler and K9 will be challenged individually and of course as a team. This will be achieved by allocating time where handlers will increase their knowledge and understanding through tabletop exercises, micro drills, and Decision-Making Exercises (DME’s) on topics such as Perimeter Command and Control issues, Tactical Tracking, and Tactical K9 Search Patterns.
The course is physically demanding – handlers will also act as decoys. Strong consideration will be given to developing handlers into more tactically competent officers and increasing the skill/confidence of their K9 partners. Each handler will be required to fill out a K9 vetting form. Handlers must be approved by their agency to attend.
Topics Covered:
- Tactical obedience & agility
- Tracking with single and multiple officers
- Shooting with and around K9’s
- Leash techniques (handler & 2-man)
- Search techniques – large scale events - Searching buildings & problem solving
- Environmental distractions
- Arrest techniques with and without physical apprehension
- Drone incorporation: open/closed environments
- Force-on-force & immediate action drills
- Strategies for neutralizing lethal assaults
- Offensive & defensive advantages
- Policies & procedures
- Current case law
Required Equipment:
- Patrol K9 Vehicle - Uniform and Duty gear
- Duty Pistol and 250 rounds of ammunition, flashlights/weapon mounted light
- Patrol Rifle / Carbine and 100 rounds of ammunition
- Clear Eye Protection / Ear Protection
- Gloves, Vest, Tactical Vest (if applicable), Helmet (If issued)
- Blue gun / Simunition Pistol and 100 rounds of ammo
- Rain gear / weather-appropriate gear
- Muzzle and Collars (Charging system for E Collars)
- Kong or other reward systems
- 30-foot leash, 6-foot leash (all others)
- Tracking harness/patrol harness / K9 ballistic vest (if issued)
- Large cotton balls
- Bite Sleeve / Bite Suit (Clothing covers)
- K9 First Aid Kit (ideal)
- Notebook and Pen
- Dog Food
