Sri Lanka Navy Holds First Basic Dog Handling Course Certificate Award Ceremony in Welisara

The Sri Lanka Navy held its first-ever Basic Dog Handling Course (01/2026) certificate awarding ceremony on October 30, 2026, at the Naval Technical Institute Sports Ground in Welisara.

The certificates were presented to naval personnel who successfully completed the six-month training programme, under the patronage of Commander Naval Infantry, Rear Admiral Kusala Dissanayake.

The course was organised to enhance the professional skills and operational capabilities of dog handlers attached to the Sri Lanka Navy's Official Dog Unit.

Four Belgian Malinois puppies and four Navy dog handlers participated in the programme, which was conducted by experienced instructors attached to the Navy's Official Dog Unit.

During the six-month training period, participants received instruction in essential dog-handling skills, including obedience training, responding to commands, obstacle navigation, and detecting narcotics and explosives.

The programme also focused on developing effective coordination and communication between dogs and their handlers during operational activities.

Welisara Naval Area Commander Captain Saliya Paranagama, along with senior naval officers and other naval personnel, attended the certificate awarding ceremony.

A special dog demonstration was also held alongside the presentation of certificates.

The Navy stated that such training programmes would further strengthen the professional capabilities of its Official Dog Unit, enabling it to carry out operations more efficiently and effectively.