Which situation would cause recertification?

• A. Change of mission
• B. Assigned a new MWD
• C. No training conducted for 60 days
• D. The dog retires

Answer: (B)

Recertification happens when the dog is paired with a new MWD. Certification isn’t just about the dog alone; it’s tied to the dog–handler team and the specific conditions of their mission. When a new MWD is assigned to a handler, the dog must be re-evaluated to ensure it still meets all standards under the new pairing, including how it responds to the handler’s cues and performs the required tasks in the mission environment. That re-check protects safety and effectiveness for the team.

A change of mission might require additional training, but the formal recertification is triggered by starting a new dog with the team. A lapse in training or retirement ends active duty rather than initiating a new recertification.