Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to train dogs, maintain dog proficiency and deploy dogs in an operational environment. It outlines the skills required to record and report on the proficiency of detector dogs.
This unit applies to those working with and training detector dogs. The unit may be customised, particularly regarding the context in which dogs work.
The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to, particularly those related to dog training methods and preservation of crime scenes and evidence.
A person undertaking this unit would usually work autonomously using support from mostly familiar resources but may also work in small teams. The role requires complex task organisation and application of moderate analytical skills.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Identify the role of the detector dog | 1.1 Identify the role of the detector dog in the organisation. |
2. Train and maintain skills proficiency in detector dogs | 2.1 Identify factors that affect the training and proficiency maintenance of detector dogs. 2.2 Use approved training methods. 2.3 Determine positive indicators of a target odour through repetitive exposure and positive reinforcement. 2.4 Monitor and interpret the outcomes of training and operational deployment, applying appropriate remedial exercises that maintain the validity of the detection. 2.5 Assess the training of the dog regularly against the guidelines of the organisation. |
3. Conduct an operational deployment of a detector dog | 3.1 Deploy the detector dog to detect target odours in a range of areas and situations determined by organisational need. 3.2 Deploy the detector dog according to organisational guidelines and workplace health and safety policies. 3.3 Identify external factors that limit the capabilities of the detector dog to function efficiently. 3.4 Interpret the behaviour and responses of the detector dog and take action as determined by the organisation. 3.5 Interact with the detector dog to maintain an effective level of working behaviour. 3.6 Follow organisational guidelines on the preservation of evidence and maintenance of the integrity of a crime scene/detection situation. |
Foundation Skills
The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.
ACSF levels indicative of performance:
Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the
Competency Field
Dog handling