The role, significance and possibilities of the training and application of service dogs within the organization of the Hungarian Prison Service

Abstract

The handlers and service dogs integrated within the organization of the Hungarian Prison Service has been an essential aid while performing tasks related to security service. This special area of expertise requires extraordinarily creative operative staff with above average physical and mental capabilities. The training of service dogs goes through constant change for which acquiring new knowledge in new training methods and techniques is necessary. Today one of our most challenging tasks is the acquisition of new dogs to train. Puppies or breeding? Both are a possibility that need to be looked into not just in theory but in practice. Only thus can the “canine occupation” reach achievements and develop with its defence and tracking dogs within the organization of the Prison Service.