8 dogs profiled in 'Soldier Dogs'

Maria Goodavage explores the world of dogs in combat in her new book Soldier Dogs.

3. Lars J274

U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer Second Class Paul D. Williams

Lars is a 15-pound Jack Russell terrier whose size means that he's too tiny to be deployed – it would be dangerous for him to be in a combat situation because he's so small. He was supposed to be schooled as a drug dog, but was mistakenly trained to be an explosive detector dog. So rather than combat situations, Lars has worked on missions for the president and for the UN, making sure there aren't explosives in the area. Lars' handler, Cameron Frost, says Lars loves water bottles and will chew on one whenever he finds one.

3 of 8
You've read  of  free articles. Subscribe to continue.