The dogs at the Wicomico County (Md.) Department of Corrections conduct perimeter checks, help subdue inmate disturbances, and perform other tasks. They have reduced serious incidents in the county by 60 percent and have inflicted 2 inmate bites while protecting their masters. Dogs have been used for public protection for centuries. Issues to consider before establishing a canine unit are the qualifications for correctional dogs, procurement, the handler, and potential negative factors. The rottweiler tends to handle better than the normal German shepherd in a correctional setting. Dogs come from professional kennels and the public. Before being purchased each dog should be tested for reactions to guns and noise, temperament toward people, pain sensitivity, ability to retrieve, and ability to adapt to strange places. Training of a novice canine usually requires 8 hours a day for 14-16 weeks. Topics include obedience, the obstacle course, apprehension, tracking, the building search, and the area article search. The handler should have at least 2 years of correctional service, have a good record in the department, be able to work with little or no supervision, be dependable and resourceful, be patient and a problem solver, and take care of the dog and equipment. Steps to establishing a program include obtaining the support of the correctional administration, the county administration, and the other staff members and funding for the costs to support the handlers. The special bond that exists between the dog and the handler is the most important aspect of training, because they work together as a team. Photographs