> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://dpssop.equinoxroleplay.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# 7.6 - Training Program

> Training philosophy, phases, frequency, and maintenance standards for K-9 teams.

### Training Philosophy & Principles

* Progressive, reinforcement-based, consistency, clear commands, safety first.
* Use of positive rewards, occasional structured correction (within humane policies).
* Continual refreshers to maintain abilities.

### Training Phases

1. **Basic Obedience / Control**
   * Heel, sit, stay, down, recall, stay at distance, leash walking
   * Distraction introduction
2. **Agility / Conditioning**
   * Cones, ramps, hoops, jumps, tunnels, balance, obstacles
   * Endurance, resistance, stamina work
3. **Sniff / Detection Training**
   * Introduction to target odors (drugs, weapons, money)
   * Blind hides, distractor odors, odor discrimination
   * Increase difficulty: vehicle searches, building searches, public spaces
4. **Apprehension / Bite / Attack Training** (if employed)
   * Controlled bite work, release on command, handler safety
   * Takedowns, suspect retreat, backup coverage
5. **Scenario / Deployment Drills**
   * Realistic searches (cars, rooms, open area)
   * Dual team, backup, multiple odors
   * Handler decision making, command transitions
6. **Maintenance / Refresher Training**
   * Weekly or semiweekly touchups
   * Monthly full evaluations
   * Cross training (handler switching, new environments)

### Training Frequency & Schedule

| Training Area          | Frequency            | Duration  | Notes                                     |
| ---------------------- | -------------------- | --------- | ----------------------------------------- |
| Obedience              | 4–5 times/week       | 15-30 min | Basic commands, control under distraction |
| Agility / Conditioning | 3 times/week         | 20-30 min | alternating obstacle sets                 |
| Detection / Sniff      | 3–5 times/week       | 20-30 min | vary hide locations, difficulty           |
| Apprehension (if used) | 2–3 times/week       | 15 min    | controlled, safe, supervised              |
| Scenario Drills        | 1–2 times/week       | 30–60 min | real search environments                  |
| Maintenance / Review   | daily micro sessions | 5–10 min  | refresh key commands daily                |

* Also schedule **rest / “off” days** (e.g. 1 full day/week) where training is light or recreational.