Russia Equips Military Dogs with Bulletproof Vests

According to a report by Reference News on March 1, the Russian troops operating in the special military operation zone and border areas have begun equipping military dogs with specially customized bulletproof vests. This equipment comes in different sizes for various breeds and can protect the vital organs of military dogs from bullets and shrapnel. Experts point out that training military dogs is a long and complex process, and special protective gear is necessary to safeguard these "rare talents."

It is reported that the Russian military has equipped mine detection dogs, which work in coordination with sapper units, with bulletproof vests. Military dogs in border areas have also donned this protective gear; for example, military dogs wear bulletproof vests when handling the wreckage of downed drones.

Sapper Dmitry Goncharenko told reporters that it does not take long for military dogs to get used to wearing bulletproof vests. He said, "Sometimes they can adapt in half a day. The handler stays by their side and gives them treats. Dogs are very intelligent animals. At first, they may feel uncomfortable, but then they get used to it."

Goncharenko pointed out that military dogs sometimes face risks even greater than those of the sappers. He said, "Military dogs follow the sappers and sometimes walk ahead. They certainly need protective gear; the bulletproof vest can cover their entire body except for their paws and head. Although there are no helmets for dogs, there are goggles with bulletproof film."

Alexander Pelyanov, an associate professor at the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, stated that bulletproof vests can reduce the risk of serious injury to military dogs and increase their chances of returning to duty after treatment. (Translated by Li Ran)