When I tell people I’m an explosive search dog handler with the British Transport Police (BTP), their reactions are usually a mix of awe and curiosity. It’s not a job many people know much about, but it’s one I’m incredibly proud of. Every day, I work alongside my four-legged partner to help keep the public safe, and while it can be demanding, it’s also one of the most rewarding jobs I’ve ever had. Here’s a glimpse into my world as a handler.
The Early Days: Becoming a Dog Handler
My journey into this career started with a love for animals, particularly dogs, and a desire to serve the community. I’ve always been fascinated by the bond between humans and animals, especially in high pressured situations. After a few years working within the BTP in various roles, I applied for the dog handler position. It’s really difficult to get in— fitness tests, interviews, and two weeks practical assessments including an exam are just the beginning. But once I was accepted, I knew I was about to start on an entirely new adventure.
Training to be a dog handler is rigorous. We’re not just learning how to care for and handle our dogs; we’re training them to detect explosives, respond to commands in high-pressure environments, and stay calm in the face of danger. My dog Axel—is a Springador, and like most working dogs, he’s full of energy and highly driven. From the moment I met him at 8 weeks old, I knew we’d be a solid team.
We spent months training together from a puppy, building trust and learning to communicate in ways only handlers and their dogs understand. The partnership between a handler and their dog is truly special. You need to trust your dog’s instincts completely, and they need to trust that you’ll guide them safely through every challenge. Axel is one of our youngest dogs to licence.
A Day on the Job: Unpredictable and Rewarding
No two days are ever the same. One day I might be patrolling a busy London station, ensuring that no suspicious packages are left unattended. The next, we could be responding to a specific threat or being called out to a major event such as royal weddings ,funerals and Coronations. We also provide support to VIPs such as Government officials from UK and abroad. Including Government party conferences and G8 summits.
We can start our shift proacteively searching stations including, entrances, and high-traffic areas. While I’m scanning railway furniture including seating areas and vulnerable points, Axel’s nose is working overtime, sniffing out any trace of explosives. His focus is incredible—he’s trained to ignore distractions, and focus on detecting the presence of explosives. Axel is focused on his reward and will confidently clear an area, route or car park,
One of the biggest challenges in our job is remaining vigilant without becoming overly anxious. The public often doesn’t realise the risks that explosive detection handlers manage every day, but we have to be calm, collected, and confident in our knowledge and ability to act swiftly if something isn’t right. In those moments, I rely my knowledge and on Axel’s ability to do his job—and my own—to stay focused and make a safe and secure enviroment.
There are times when our work feels more intense than usual. Large events, such as ceremonial events or political gatherings, often require a significant security presence. In these cases, we’re not just checking a location once but repeatedly, making sure every inch is covered, and no threat goes unnoticed. When we get a call about a suspicious package, the adrenaline kicks in. Axel’s body language tells me everything I need to know. If his behaviour changes, I will help him work his nose to source. I will follow procedures to ensure public safety.
Thankfully, most days pass without incident. Axel is my best buddy and I make sure I spoil him with tummy tickles and treats.
We regularly patrol stations alongside firearms officers and behaviour detections officers to deter those who want to cause us harm. Those moments remind me of how vital our role is in the prevention of terrorism.
The Bond Between Handler and Dog
One of the best parts of this job is the relationship I’ve built with Axel. It’s not just a working relationship he has been my puppy from 8 weeks old and is now 3—it’s a bond based on trust, loyalty, and mutual respect. He relies on me for guidance, care, and reassurance, and I rely on him for his control, system and ability to work away from me safely. He has impeccable sense of smell and unshakable focus when working for his reward. At the end of a long day, I take him home, where he transforms from a highly trained working dog into a relaxed and affectionate companion. Seeing him relaxed in at home after a long shift makes me realise just how special our partnership is.
The Challenges
Being a dog handler isn’t all glamour, though. The hours can be long, the work physically and mentally demanding. We face harsh weather, busy crowds, and high-stress environments. But the rewards far outweigh the difficulties. Knowing that our presence can prevent harm and help protect people makes every challenge worth it.
There’s also the emotional side of working so closely with an animal. Axel won’t work forever and in some cases retire early. It could be the case I’ll have to say goodbye to my partner in crime if I was to move away from the dog section. British Transport Police are good at allowing handlers to keep their dogs when they complete their full service.
The reality all dog handlers face, and it’s not an easy one. But for now, we’re a team, and I’m grateful for every day we get to work side by side.
Final Thoughts
Being an explosive dog handler with the British Transport Police is more than just a job; it’s a vocation. It’s demanding, exciting, and sometimes stressful, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. The bond I share with Axel, the sense of purpose I get from helping protect the public, and the knowledge that we’re making a difference keep me motivated.
Every time Axel picks up a scent, every time we complete a successful search, I’m reminded of why I chose this path. And at the end of the day, when we’ve finished our shift and Axel is happily resting I feel an immense sense of pride in what we do. After all, not everyone can say they’ve got a job where they work with their best buddy.
