To check identification or to apprehend, the handler always warns the person that if he or she displays any hostility to the patrol or to the handler, the dog will attack without command. Once the handler has been alerted by the dog, it becomes the responsibility of the handler to cope with the situation in the most appropriate manner. Frequently, the appropriate action is to keep the intruder or area under surveillance until other MP personnel can arrive. After an apprehension, a search is always done with the patrol dog in the guard position. A backup MP patrol is used to transport apprehended personnel.
Dog teams are useful to detect and apprehend thieves and vandals in vehicle parking lots.
Also, the presence of the patrol dog team may deter potential acts of theft and vandalism. The team can be most effective by alternating between vehicle and foot patrol in a parking lot. During hours of darkness, when there is no activity in a parking lot, the team approaches the lot from the downwind side. If a building is open or forced entry is evident, patrol dog teams may be used to track hidden intruders from point of penetration to their location. In responding to an alarm at facilities such as clubs, finance offices, or banks, the patrol dog team should be among the first MP on the scene.