About the Unit

The IDF’s elite operational canine unit, Oketz, deploys commando fighters and their dogs for special missions in counterterrorism and other strategic operations. Its soldiers undergo intensive, demanding training, preparing them to serve as a tactical advantage for any unit in need of their unique capabilities.

On the Timeline

1954 - 1932

Dr. Rudolfina Menzel initiated discussions with leaders of the Haganah to establish a unit for the defense of the Jewish settlement, incorporating working dogs. In 1934, training courses for handlers and dogs were held in the country to protect the Jewish community — these eventually evolved into the canine unit known as the “Service Handlers Organization.”

Later, in 1948, the unit was integrated into the IDF under the name “Dog Service,” operating under the General Staff. In 1954, a decision was made to disband the unit.

1932 Isreali K9 Unit Woman And Man with their dogs

1974

The unit was reestablished under the serial number 7142 as a canine counterterrorism unit, operating closely with Sayeret Matkal.

The classified unit was based in Camp Sirkin and placed under the Counterterrorism Branch of the Ground Forces Command. Its existence was not publicly known, and even within the military, information about the unit was heavily restricted.

1988 - 1975

The unit worked closely with a select few elite units and was deployed to high-risk hostage and abduction events — including the Savoy Hotel and Operation Entebbe. In April 1980, the unit took part in the takeover of the children’s dormitories in Misgav Am.

During a joint operation with Sayeret Matkal, a successful breach was carried out without casualties, with the unit’s dogs playing a critical role and providing a significant tactical advantage in the rescue of the hostages.

In the northern sector, the unit participated in the First Lebanon War and was known among a limited number of units under the nickname “The Kennel.” It was also active in counterterrorism operations in Gaza and the West Bank throughout the First Intifada.

In 1988, the unit participated in Operation Blue and Brown. During the mission, the dogs were shot by terrorists before reaching the target. In a difficult retreat under fire, the dogs’ bodies were left behind. Their later appearance in foreign media led to the unit’s exposure and prompted changes in operational protocols.

90's

During the unit’s deployment in Lebanon, operational demands led to its expansion and the development of new capabilities. These included the advancement and establishment of explosives detection (EOD) as a response to the growing threat of roadside bombs in Lebanon.

In addition, the unit developed a tracking capability for pursuing and apprehending terrorists based on their footprints and traces. That same year, the unit officially changed its name to Oketz.

In 1996, a dedicated attack dog team was established to support Egoz Unit operations in dense and rugged terrain. By 1997, the unit began its first direct recruitment and selection process for combat soldiers.

2010 - 2000

The unit deployed its fighters and dogs extensively during Operation Defensive Shield.
That same year, it also formed its first all-female combat team specializing in weapons detection — a groundbreaking recruitment of female fighters into a special forces unit.

In 2006, the unit played a major role in the Second Lebanon War and relocated from Camp Sirkin to the Adam Training Facility (Mitkan Adam).

In 2008, the unit participated in Operation Cast Lead. Following the operation, an official directive and structured emergency deployment plan were formulated for the unit.

2014 - Today

The unit took part in Operation Brother’s Keeper in Judea and Samaria and Operation Protective Edge in the Gaza Strip — its largest deployment to date, involving both active-duty and reserve soldiers. The unit’s significant contribution earned it a commendation from the Gaza Division Commander for its role in the campaign.

In 2017, the unit held its first pre-recruitment bootcamp (now known as “Exposure Days”) to identify and evaluate high-quality candidates ahead of selection. That year also saw the launch of the Career Track Model, offering outstanding fighters an extended service with their assigned dog.

In 2018, the unit transitioned to annual enlistment cycles and moved its training base from the Kfir Brigade Training Center to the Paratroopers Training Center as part of a newly designed training program.

Between 2021 and 2023, the unit played a key role in Operations Guardian of the Walls, Break the Wave, and House and Garden.