Expert: PaulKoinig - 5/13/2008

Question
Hi Paul
I am emailing you from Ireland after discovering this website.I am a serving Prison Officer here for 7 years and i am hoping to move into the new canine unit being developed.I have alot of training experience with dogs having competed in Schutzhund training with German shepherds and other working dogs for a few years now.The interest in the canine unit is exceeding expectations so the competition is high.I would like to get a few tips and advice for my upcoming interview to give me every advantage. I have heard that as part of the interview here they have you interact with a dog in a basic exercise .I believe they ask you to collect the dog from the back of a van, put a leash on it and take it out to go to the toilet etc and play ball for a few minutes.As you can see this is quite basic but obviously they are looking for something during this exercise, the way you interact, your confidence etc.How should you best approach these kind of assessment to best demonstrate your ability with dogs for this kind of work.I would appreciate any advice or help you could provide.Thanking you in advance

Answer
Josh, this one is very easy!! Take the leash and put it on the dog without making eye contact. Be firm but not anxious. Stay calm and be in charge. Once the dog has done its business, get childishly playful. Remember you must have the dominant hand or he will eat you up.
Good Luck
Paul