Choosing a K9 security provider: what to ask

Handlers and training

The handler is the most important part of the team. The dog provides presence and senses; the handler provides judgement, control and communication.

Ask:

• How are handlers trained? Look for structured training in dog handling, control and welfare, with regular refresher sessions, not just general security training.
• Do handlers work with their own dog? A handler and dog that know and trust each other work far better than a pairing put together for the night.
• How is the dog trained and assessed? Ask how often the team is assessed together and what happens if a dog is not performing.
• What do handlers wear? Uniformed, identifiable handlers reassure the public and make the deterrent clear.

Some providers refer to the British Standard code of practice for the use of security dogs, BS 8517. It is reasonable to ask whether a provider follows it.

SIA licensing

In the UK, people carrying out contract security work such as guarding premises must hold a licence from the Security Industry Authority. That applies to security dog handlers as well. A licence is only issued after training, an identity check and a criminal record check.

Ask how the provider checks licences, and how it keeps track of renewals. You can check an individual's licence yourself on the SIA's online register of licence holders. Handlers working at your site should be able to show their licence on request.

The Guard Dogs Act 1975

The Guard Dogs Act 1975 is the key law for security dogs at premises. In short, a guard dog must not be used unless a handler capable of controlling it is present and the dog is under the handler's control at all times, except where the dog is secured so that it cannot roam freely about the premises. A warning notice must also be displayed at each entrance.

A professional provider should be able to explain how it meets these requirements on your site: where the dog will be when not patrolling, how it is secured, and where notices will go. Be wary of anyone who suggests leaving a dog loose on site without a handler.

Welfare

How a provider looks after its dogs says a lot about how it runs its business. It also affects performance, because a well-cared-for dog works better.

Ask about:

• Transport, including vehicle crates, ventilation and temperature.
• Rest breaks during a shift and days off across the week.
• Water, first aid and grooming kit carried by each handler.
• What happens if a dog is unwell or injured on shift.

Our guide to Security dog welfare: why it matters on every shift goes into more detail.

Vehicles and mobilisation

For mobile patrols and alarm response, the vehicle matters. Look for marked dog unit vehicles fitted with purpose-built K9 transport. Clear markings add to the deterrent and help police identify the unit on arrival.

Ask how quickly the provider can mobilise for a new site or an urgent call-out, and how it covers sickness or leave so that you are not left without cover.

Site survey and planning

A good provider will want to see your site before quoting. A proper survey covers access points, vulnerable areas, hiding places, lighting and the history of incidents. The resulting plan should set out hours, patrol routes and team size, and explain why.

Be cautious about a quote given without any visit or questions about the site.

Reporting

You should know what happened on every shift. Ask to see an example of:

• Patrol logs, showing times, areas checked and findings.
• Incident reports, explaining what happened, what was done and who was contacted.
• Handover notes, so information passes cleanly between shifts.

Ask how often you will receive reports, in what format, and who to contact with questions.

Equipment and safety

Handlers should carry the right kit: leads, muzzles where needed, first aid kit and fire extinguisher, plus any personal protective equipment your site requires, such as hard hats and safety boots on construction sites. Ask whether handlers will complete your site induction.

Contracts and insurance

Ask for the provider's terms in writing, including notice periods and what happens if cover is missed. Ask what insurance the provider holds and request evidence, so you can check it meets your needs and any requirements of your own insurer.

A short checklist

• Trained, uniformed handlers working with dogs they know.
• SIA licences checked and recorded.
• A clear explanation of Guard Dogs Act 1975 compliance.
• Welfare standards you can see and ask about.
• Marked vehicles with proper K9 transport.
• A site survey before a quote.
• Clear, regular reporting.

Ignis Shield starts every job with a free site survey and a tailored plan. Read how we work, or book a free site assessment.