NASDU Accreditation refers to approval by NASDU – the National Association of Security Dog Users, the UK’s leading professional body for canine security services.
It is the gold-standard accreditation for companies and handlers providing security dog (K9) services in the UK and internationally.
What NASDU Accreditation Means
Being NASDU accredited confirms that a company and its dog handlers:
Meet strict operational, welfare, and training standards
Use dogs that are professionally trained and assessed
Employ handlers who are competent, licensed, and experienced
Operate in compliance with UK law and industry best practice
Maintain the highest standards of canine welfare and control
What NASDU Assesses
1. Dog & Handler Competence
Dog temperament, obedience, and control
Handler knowledge, experience, and operational capability
Handler-to-dog pairing suitability
Real-life operational scenario testing
2. Training Standards
Initial and ongoing dog training programs
Handler certification and refresher training
Deployment procedures
Emergency handling and recall control
3. Welfare & Care
Kennelling standards
Veterinary care and vaccination records
Rest periods, hydration, and welfare checks
Compliance with the Animal Welfare Act
4. Operational & Legal Compliance
Licensing and insurance
Risk assessments and deployment plans
Incident reporting procedures
Control of dogs in public and private environments
Who Needs NASDU Accreditation
NASDU is essential for:
Canine security companies
K9 patrol services
Guard dog services
High-risk site security
Perimeter protection services
Events and crowd-control security with dogs
Many major clients, including:
Local authorities
Critical infrastructure operators
Construction & industrial sites
Government contractors
Require NASDU accreditation as a condition of contract.
Benefits of NASDU Accreditation
Industry-recognized professional credibility
Increased client confidence and trust
Access to high-value and regulated contracts
Proof of compliance with UK security and animal welfare laws
Reduced operational and legal risk
Competitive advantage in tenders