The proper employment of police dogs is contingent upon such variables as how they are bred, how they are trained, the attitude and capability of the handler, the choice of tactical situations in which they are placed, and the philosophy of the department using them. The breeding process can eliminate imperfections and determine the size of the dogs. Training the dog is simply developing his confidence in his natural abilities, which have been enhanced through breeding. Properly trained dogs provide an intermediate response between insufficient force and lethal force. Suitable dogs can be used for a variety tasks, not only by law enforcement officers, but also by criminals. For example, pit bulls may be trained to attack police narcotic dogs; other dogs may attack the police uniform. Trained dogs may serve as partners for single police officers and may be used in prison systems; such dogs are commonly used in drug and explosives detection. Dogs will generally perform up to the level they perceive is expected of them; they should be viewed as another tool in the law enforcement arsenal. As with any law enforcement tool, dogs must be properly employed in the right tactical situation at the right time to be effective. Departments should carefully evaluate the pros and cons of using police dogs.