Special Agent Canine Handlers work with highly trained canines that can detect improvised explosive devices, homemade explosives, explosive materials, firearms, ammunition, and shell casings. They are often deployed to active crime scenes to locate firearms, shell casings, and explosive materials to assist with criminal investigations.

Training

Once they are selected for the role, special agent canine handlers attend a 12-week, scientifically based explosives detection canine training at ATF’s Canine Training Center in Front Royal, Virginia. The agent is matched with a canine, and together they go through intensive tests based on real world scenarios where they must locate a variety of hidden explosive materials. Upon completion of the training, ATF’s explosives detection canine teams are certified to identify the six basic explosives groups and have the capability to recognize more than 19,000 explosives compounds. 

Those who successfully complete the training are selected to join ATF’s National Response Teams, International Response Teams, Special Response Teams, or ATF Bomb Technicians and ATF Certified Explosive Specialists. They use their specialized training to support National Special Security Events, conducting explosive sweeps for public safety, or by assisting with crimes scenes/investigations that may involve explosive materials, firearms, ammunition and or shell casings.

Special Agent Canine Handlers must follow all certification requirements as directed by the ATF National Canine Division.