ANZAC DAY – Dogs of War

ANZAC Day represents a very important day in any Australian’s calendar. Pet Insurance Australia wants to take the time to also remember the four-legged heroes who continue to play a vital role in the Military.  

Dogs have played an incredible role in the history of war,” says Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia. “They received specialized training and provided comfort and unconditional love to soldiers in war-torn areas.”

The US Military officially recognized the importance of dogs in WW2, although many dogs had played vital roles in WW1. One famous example is Sergeant Stubby of the 102nd Infantry, Yankee Division, known for detecting the injured, detecting gas, and alerting soldiers to nearby enemies, paving the way for future recognition of canine soldiers.

“For many soldiers, the sight of a dog offered relief from their challenging environment,” adds Crighton. “The humble, unconditional love of our canines allowed many soldiers to persevere.”

Around 1918, Germany had approximately 30,000 dogs working on the battlefront, while Britain utilized up to 20,000 dogs.

Other nations also utilised thousands of dogs on the front line of attack.

Distinct breeds served specific roles such as guarding, alerting to threats, and detecting enemies on the battlefield. Dogs also played crucial roles as casualty and messenger dogs. Prominent breeds included Dobermanns, German Shepherds, Airedale Terriers, and Bloodhounds, although various other breeds were employed over time.

“Many of these dogs saved countless lives, and also comforted soldiers in their dying moments,” Crighton says. “As we remember the fallen this ANZAC day, we also pay thoughts towards our humble canine companions and the incredible tasks they continue to undertake for the Military.”

Dogs in WW1 & WW2

Casualty Dogs

These dogs would carry medical equipment to injured soldiers on the battlefield. They would also stay beside dying soldiers for comfort and alert others to the injured.  The Red Cross utilised Bloodhounds and Airedale terriers who were trained to seek out the wounded.

Sentry Dogs

Sentry Dogs received training to remain by their handlers, alerting them to potential threats with a subtle growl. Dobermanns were the perfect choice for this task as they are masters at guarding and also their dark colouring allowed them blend into the environment, particularly at night.

Messenger Dogs

Dogs faced immense danger on the battlefronts of WW1 and WW2, tasked with delivering vital messages across battlefields when traditional communication lines were severed, often holding the key to mission success. In 1917, Lt-Col. Richardson established the first British War Dog School, pioneering formal training for Military dogs.

“Today, dogs fulfill diverse roles, including bomb detection and tracking,” notes Crighton. “Australian Military working dogs excel in specialized detection, early warning, protection, and tracking skills.

“These extensively trained dogs remain pivotal in the Military, offering essential support in Special Operations worldwide.”

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