Working dogs play essential roles in society, from guide and service dogs assisting individuals with disabilities to detection and protection dogs used in search-and-rescue, law enforcement, and military operations. Despite the intensive selection and training these roles require, many candidate dogs fail to meet operational standards. This high attrition underscores the importance of optimizing selection processes and enhancing performance development across a dog’s lifespan.
In a comprehensive review published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, Emily E. Bray and colleagues examined the two major approaches for improving the success of working dog programs. The first approach involves developing more accurate and efficient selection tests and criteria to identify ideal candidates early on. The second focuses on enhancing performance through improvements in rearing environments, training protocols, and breeding strategies at both individual and population levels.
The authors summarized extensive empirical research supporting predictive testing methods that assess temperament, cognitive skills, and motivation. Early-life experiences, including socialization and enrichment, were shown to profoundly influence later working success. Similarly, genetic selection for traits such as fearlessness, trainability, and persistence was emphasized as key to improving the consistency of performance outcomes across generations.
Beyond genetics, the review highlighted the importance of welfare-focused training. Positive reinforcement and reward-based methods were linked to stronger task engagement and lower stress levels. By contrast, aversive techniques risk undermining confidence and cooperation—two traits central to effective working partnerships. The authors advocate for evidence-based rearing and training strategies that balance operational performance with the psychological well-being of the dogs.
Ultimately, Bray et al. emphasized a holistic approach integrating behavioral science, genetics, and welfare principles to create more reliable, resilient, and happy working dogs. This interdisciplinary model provides a roadmap for organizations seeking to enhance success rates while ensuring ethical standards and sustainability within canine working programs.
Source: Bray, E. E., Otto, C., Udell, M., Hall, N. J., Johnston, A. M., & MacLean, E. (2021). Enhancing the Selection and Performance of Working Dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 8. Published May 12, 2021.
