To describe the difference between a Working Service Dog and a guard or protection trained dog is possible for me only by using an example.Imagine a group of people who plant a number of tulip bulbs. Before the bulbs have bloomed but just as they begin to sprout, they dig them up. While admiring them, they walk off with the bulb and the bit of green sprouting up. Then imagine their surprise when one person leaves his bulb a bit longer to grow and it springs forth a beautiful tulip flower,truly beautiful and complete in its growth.
This is the difference between the two types of dogs.
In my opinion the guard or protection dog is taken only so far; permitted only to sprout, unsure and in all probability, a liability.
The Working Service Dog and his handler are taken further, permitted to bloom, becoming stable and good K-9 citizens.Not to be controlled by the protection work but rather made whole by a complete training set forth to stabilize and build confidence.
Working Service is a demanding science, both physically and mentally. Yet when one comes together with his dog is such away, there is no denying the flower has bloomed and is truly beautiful to behold.
From the Working Service Archives 12/03/90
