National Association of Security Dog Users (NASDU)
NASDU Certification & Security Dog Standards
The National Association of Security Dog Users (NASDU) is the UK’s leading professional body for security dog handlers and canine teams. It establishes industry-wide standards for the use, welfare, and training of security dogs, ensuring that businesses operate ethically, safely, and effectively.
NASDU is widely recognised across the UK security industry and helps businesses demonstrate professional credibility, compliance, and operational excellence when deploying dogs for guarding, patrol, and detection services. It ensures that your security operations meet both legal and industry best practices.


Why NASDU Certification is Essential for UK Security Businesses
1. Trusted Industry Standards
NASDU sets strict codes of practice covering the training, handling, and welfare of security dogs. These standards ensure that dogs are safely deployed, handlers are professionally trained, and your operations meet UK security compliance requirements.
2. Professional Recognition
Being NASDU-certified demonstrates to clients, insurers, and regulators that your company operates to the highest professional standards. It adds credibility, builds trust, and can make a significant difference when competing for contracts in the UK security market.
3. Competitive Advantage in the Market
Security companies with NASDU certification have a clear edge over competitors without verified credentials. Certification demonstrates a commitment to training. Excellence, dog welfare, and operational effectiveness are helping attract more clients and win high-value contracts.
Who Needs NASDU Certification?
NASDU is suitable for any UK security company that:
- Deploys security dogs for guarding, patrol, or detection services
- Wants to demonstrate professionalism and ethical dog handling
- Needs to comply with codes of practice, welfare, and operational standards
- Seeks a competitive edge in contracts and tenders
- Requires guidance and support for handler training and certification
NASDU membership ensures your business is recognised, compliant, and trusted within the UK security industry.


Benefits of NASDU Membership for Your Business
SMAS certification is suitable for a wide range of UK businesses, including:
- Industry Recognition: Official NASDU membership signals adherence to professional standards.
- Training Guidance: Access to verified training courses for dog handlers, improving team skills.
- Annual Certification: Demonstrates ongoing compliance and commitment to excellence.
- Client Trust & Confidence: Reassures clients that your canine teams operate ethically and safely.
- Business Visibility: Inclusion in NASDU directories increases exposure to potential clients seeking certified security providers.
NASDU Training & Handler Qualifications
NASDU endorses handler training programs designed to maintain professional standards and compliance. Training ensures:
- Handlers receive Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications aligned with UK security standards.
- Teams are equipped to operate dogs safely and effectively in guarding, patrol, or detection.
- Ongoing professional development to maintain certification and
- Training includes dog welfare, behaviour understanding, emergency response, and deployment techniques
Proper training improves operational efficiency and ensures that your business is fully audit-ready for client inspections and contract tenders.


How NASDU Supports UK Security Standards
NASDU certification complements other UK security regulations, helping businesses meet:
- SIA Licences & ACS Accreditation are mandatory for security companies and staff
- BS10800 Standards vetting, screening, and operational best practices.
- Health & Safety Certifications ensuring workplace compliance and risk management.
- ISO Standards quality, environmental, and occupational health and safety management.
Combining NASDU membership with these certifications ensures your business meets client expectations, legal requirements, and competitive benchmarks in the UK security sector.
Get NASDU Certified with BizGrow Holdings
At BizGrow Holdings, we guide UK security businesses through the entire NASDU certification process. From preparation and documentation to completing membership requirements, we ensure your business:
- Achieves full NASDU compliance
- Demonstrates professional credibility and operational excellence
- Gains a competitive advantage in the UK security market
- Ensures staff are trained, certified, and ready for all operational requirements
Contact us today to start your NASDU certification journey and elevate your security business to professional standards.


