It takes a very special dog to meet the demands of the SDF training program and join the ranks of the most highly skilled search dogs in the nation.

The following Search Dog Profile outlines the characteristics we consider essential. Please review the Search Dog Profile in Step 1 (as below) to see if your dog fits this description. If so, proceed to the next steps.

Please understand that our ability to accept donations of dogs depends on the timing of new canine-handler search teams and our training schedule. While we can proceed with the initial testing to determine if your dog meets our criteria, we may not be able to immediately accept your dog into our program.

STEP 1:   SEARCH DOG PROFILE

* Labrador, Golden Retriever or Border Collie or other hunting or herding breed
* 9 to 18 months old
* Excellent health, (hip and elbow x-rays will be required)
* Bold, energetic, and athletic
* Well-socialized, not fearful of or aggressive to people or other dogs
* Not fearful of noises, sudden movements or unstable, hazardous footing
* Able to ignore extraneous noises
* Spayed or neutered (will be required)

If your dog fits this profile, complete the simple Toy Test in Step 2, and proceed to Step 3 with the results.

STEP 2:   THE TOY TEST

Take your dog to an area with dense brush that it has never been before. Hold your dog by the collar and toss a toy it has never seen before at least 10 feet into the brush (tug-type toy-not a ball). Then release your dog. Do not speak to your dog while it hunts for the toy.

Observe your dog's behavior and makes notes on what your dog did while searching for the toy.

STEP 3:   CONTACTING OUR PROGRAM MANAGER

With "Toy Test" results in hand, call Amy Nicholas , SDF's Program Manager, at (888) 4K9-HERO ext. 114. Amy will discuss with you your dog's profile and response to the Toy Test, and will determine whether it is a candidate for the Search Dog Foundation.

A reminder: Even if your dog is a perfect candidate, the timing of our training program may not allow us to take the dog immediately. We hope we will be able to include your dog in our training program. Whether or not this works out, we encourage you to join us in being "Part of the Search."  

The best way to stay involved is to stay informed.
To become a member of SDF and receive our Bark Alert Newsletter, please contact us at or phone (888) 459-4376 x 114.