K-9 Connection: Exploring the bond with a Military Working Dog Published March 13, 2026 By Alyssa Janeway 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- At Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, the 341st Training Squadron trains and supports Military Working Dogs (MWDs) and their handlers. These dogs are used in patrols, drug and explosive detection, and specialized mission functions for the Department of War and other government agencies. The squadron conducts operational training for MWD handlers and supervisors, and sustains the DoW MWD program through logistical support, veterinary care, and research and development. Senior Airman Johnson, 88th Security Forces Squadron K-9 handler at Wright-Patt, began working with MWD Bulit just a month ago after graduating from canine school on February 12. MWD Bulit, a 6-year-old Belgian Malinois, came from Lackland AFB where he received his initial training, then began his career at Wright-Patt. Bulit is a patrol explosive detection dog, trained for obedience, detection, and other specialized tasks. Senior Airman Jordan Johnson, 88th Security Forces Squadron military working dog handler, poses with MWD Bulit at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, March 2, 2026. Bulit is a 6-year-old Belgian Malinois assigned to the 88th SFS specialized in patrol, explosive and detection work in order to protect Wright-Patt AFB. (U.S. Air Force photo by Alyssa Janeway) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Military Working Dogs can come from different sources. Johnson explained that some dogs come through the DoW puppy program, while others come from vendors. Once selected, dogs go through training at Lackland AFB, where they are evaluated for suitability in operational roles. “They go out to the vendors, and they see, ‘Is this dog capable of working? Can they handle this and that?’ They have all types of breeds, Belgian Malinois, German Shepherds, even labradors, German short hair pointers, and Dutch Shepherds,” Johnson said. “They train them for the Marines, Air Force, Navy, basically the whole DoD.” Exploring the bond with a Military Working Dog Senior Airman Jordan Johnson, 88th Security Forces Squadron military working dog handler, plays with MWD Bulit at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, March 2, 2026. Bulit is a 6-year-old Belgian Malinois assigned to the 88th SFS specialized in patrol, explosive and detection work in order to protect Wright-Patt AFB. (U.S. Air Force photo by Alyssa Janeway) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Exploring the bond with a Military Working Dog Senior Airman Jordan Johnson, 88th Security Forces Squadron military working dog handler, plays with MWD Bulit at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, March 2, 2026. Bulit is a 6-year-old Belgian Malinois assigned to the 88th SFS specialized in patrol, explosive and detection work in order to protect Wright-Patt AFB. (U.S. Air Force photo by Alyssa Janeway) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Exploring the bond with a Military Working Dog Senior Airman Jordan Johnson, 88th Security Forces Squadron military working dog handler, bonds with MWD Bulit at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, March 2, 2026. Bulit is a 6-year-old Belgian Malinois assigned to the 88th SFS specialized in patrol, explosive and detection work in order to protect Wright-Patt AFB. (U.S. Air Force photo by Alyssa Janeway) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Pairing handlers with dogs is generally decided by the kennel master. New handlers are usually given dogs that are experienced but not too easy. They want a dog that will teach more and help them learn. According to Johnson, the first stage of working together is focused on building trust. “Just play with them, no commands, build rapport, take them out, walk them,” Johnson said. “We’re just two best buds until we start obedience and corrections, which is when it gets more action oriented.” Handlers must have specific qualities to work effectively with MWDs. Johnson lists confidence, independence, and knowledge of dog care as essential. “As a handler, you go on missions and deployments. You’re your own person. Nobody’s really the boss,” he says. “You have to be in charge, know how to train and care for the dog, take them to the vet, and maintain their readiness.” Some MWDs can serve until medical or operational needs require retirement. Often, handlers have the option to adopt their dogs after retirement. As far as MWD Bulit goes, Johnson says he wants to take him home once he retires, continuing their bond beyond service.