1.) A dog does not have to be of pure breed in order to be a good counter terrorism dog. There are many factors that come into play. A dog needs to have some substance to them in order to bring down a full grown man. Trip dogs of medium size have been used to stop fleeing suspects but still should have enough body mass and muscle to be able to withstand any assaulting type blows from a suspect who is trying to free themselves from an attack from the dog.

2.) Counter Terrorism dogs may be called upon to use their nose to locate explosives, drugs, victims of bombings or suspects who are in hiding. They may be involved in the location and tracking down of human cargo being shipped across borders.  They may be called on to locate one grave or mass burial sites, where victim's bodies may be buried to hide evidence of any atrocities.  A K9 team  must be able to do these things in hostile environments.

3.) Dogs that work in counter terrorism must have the proper temperament. Described here as having the temperament of a pet but when needed the attitude and skills of a well trained soldier.

4.) Stamina is of utmost importance, as counter terrorism dogs may be called upon to work very long hours in very hostile environments.

5.)  The overall general health of a K9 must always be promoted. A K9's performance will suffer if he or she doesn't feel well, just like their human counterpart. Taking care of our K9's are of utmost importance to the success of our overall operational objectives.  Nothing but the best for our K9 partners.  They give so much and ask so little in return. We owe them a great deal.