Breeds

A significant issue for the mine dog industry in identifying dogs suitable for mine dog detection work. 

The suitability of a dog is affected by a range of criteria, which, depending on the type of work and the climate in which the dog will work, can vary. Currently, German and Belgian Shepherds are the most commonly used breeds, and too few attempts have been made with any other breed to consider them appropriately tested.

The GICHD has completed a study on breeds (see Publications) wich concludes that there are potentially four routes to "producing" mine dogs. The advantages and disadvantages for each of these four routes are discussed. Eleven different breeds have been examined, and their strengths and weaknesses have been scaled using 14 different categories relevant to the design of a mine detection dog. The report may encourage training and demining organisations to use alternative breeds than the ones typically used.

One particularly promising breed is the Drever (see photo). There is little or no experience with this breed within the Mine Detection Dog community, making it likely that the Drever will remain untested unless introduced. The GICHD has purchased Drevers in the past and has given them to demining organisations for experimental training.