Dogs for the purpose of intimidation, attack or defence

Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.23.028765

I note you seek access to the following information:

Your dog section on your website mentions use of dogs for the detention of various matter such as drugs, money, etc.
It does not mention their use as a weapon.

Do you hold, train, send for training, or use dogs for the purpose of intimidation, attack, or defence?

If so:
For what purpose? a
What is the legal basis?
In what situations or types of situations are they used?

If not, why not?

Decision

I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full.

Please find below information pursuant to your request above.

Do you hold, train, send for training, or use dogs for the purpose of intimidation, attack, or defence?

M07 - Dog Support Unit response

General Purpose Dogs:
General purpose dogs are trained to track human scent, find property, locate and detain suspects, this includes if the suspect is carrying a weapon. Any use of force by deploying a police dog will need to justified by the handler.

MO19 - Specialist Firearms Command response

Conflict Management Dogs:
Conflict management dogs (CMDs) are trained to provide additional tactical options for Specialist Firearms Officers, particularly when dealing with violent subjects in armed operations, including counter-terrorism operations.

The MPS has an obligation to ensure that all steps are taken to minimise the need for officers to resort to potentially lethal force. This obligation is particularly relevant in the context of armed policing. The deployment and use of a CMD is a less lethal option which is likely to reduce the need to resort to other force, including the use of firearms by police officers. The use of CMDs may significantly reduce the risk to police officers and the public.