Detection Canines - Labrador Retrievers

Statement of Work (SOW)

This Statement of Work (SOW) aims to procure Labrador retrievers from contractors to be trained as detection canines for the ATF National Canine Division (NCD).

• The contract involves providing Labrador retrievers that meet specific criteria for training in one of three accredited ATF canine programs (Accelerant Detection Canine, Explosive Detection Canine, and Search Enhanced Evidence K-9).

• Trained canines will be assigned to ATF Special Agent Canine Handlers or other law enforcement agencies.

• ATF intends to purchase between 1 and 60 canines over a five-year contract period, anticipating a need for approximately 12 canines per year.

• Base Period: 12 months

• Option Periods: Four (4) 12-month periods

• Place of Performance: National Canine Division at the National Canine Center in Front Royal, Virginia.

• Canine Characteristics:

  • Breed: Labrador retriever
  • Type: Bred for service or field trial (no silver Labradors)
  • Temperament: Even-tempered, obedient, outgoing, confident, inquisitive, with a strong food drive, evident physical stamina, environmental stability, and ability to work independently.
  • Age: 12 to 24 months
  • Sex: Altered male or female (no previous pregnancies)

• Health & Medical:

  • Pristine health, free from acute or chronic diseases/conditions that could hamper performance or require long-term treatment.
  • Vaccinated against DHLPP, Rabies, and Bordetella.
  • Free from parasites, infections, viruses, and diseases (including but not limited to heartworms, fleas, ticks, rabies, distemper, parvovirus, degenerative joint disease, etc.).
  • Free from signs of injury, malnutrition, or behavioral/social issues.
  • Must not have disqualifying medical issues such as fractured teeth, chronic diseases, gait abnormalities, history of seizures, soft trachea, eyelid issues, hip/elbow dysplasia, musculoskeletal injuries, chronic GI issues, panosteitis, poor body condition, heart/thyroid conditions, chronic otitis, cosmetic blemishes (e.g., cropped ears), or chronic skin conditions.

• Behavioral Soundness:

  • Outgoing, confident, non-aggressive temperament.
  • Stable character, comfortable with various environments and people.
  • Confident in diverse areas, willing to work in confined/dark spaces, no fear of heights or moving objects.
  • Possess an inquisitive and pronounced independent olfactory drive.
  • Obedient and loyal, with a strong willingness to work and food motivation.
  • Intelligent, able to comprehend commands and complete tasks.
  • Must not display apprehension or diminished work capacity when exposed to loud noises or unfamiliar surroundings.
  • Must not be submissive, shy, or exhibit fear of loading/riding in vehicles.
  • Must not have abnormal behavior issues from previous exposure to electronic training collars.
  • Cannot have been previously exposed to other target odors (accelerants, explosives, narcotics).

• Evaluation Process: Canines will undergo a four-phase evaluation: Documentation Review, Training Suitability Testing, Medical Screening, and Training. Failure at any phase may result in ineligibility.

• Vendor updated SOW (within 7 days of contract award)

• Submission Documentation for Canine(s) (Proof of vaccinations, Radiographs) (within 14 days of Direct Order issuance)

• Canine (transportation to/from National Canine Center) (quantity specified in Direct Order, within 7 days of written notification)

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document is a solicitation for Detection Canines - Labrador Retrievers. It is a multiple-award Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with a Firm Fixed Price structure.

• The primary deliverable is Detection Canines - Labrador Retrievers.

• The Statement of Work (SOW) attachment provides further details on the specific requirements.

• Contract Type: Multiple Award IDIQ, Firm Fixed Price.

• Period of Performance: Ordering periods are from 07/28/2026 to 07/27/2031.

• Government's minimum obligation: $1,000.00.

• Maximum ceiling: $1,168,009.88.

• Offer Due Date: June 22, 2026, 5:00 PM EST.

• Questions Due Date: June 15, 2026, 5:00 PM EST.

• Submission Method: Offers must be emailed to Brian.Wilkins@atf.gov.

• Evaluation Factors: Past Performance, Technical Approach, and Cost/Price.

  • Past Performance: Evaluated based on recency (within 3 years) and relevancy (similar scope, size, complexity, dollar value, contract type, etc.).
  • Technical Approach: Evaluated based on Offeror's knowledge, understanding, and technical ability to perform and manage the SOW requirements, with a focus on understanding canine detection training programs.
  • Cost/Price: Will be evaluated for fair and reasonableness.

• This solicitation is a Partial Small Business Set-aside for Detection Canines - Labrador Retrievers.

• NAICS Code: 112990.

• Size Standard: $2,750,000.

• The solicitation incorporates FAR clauses by reference, including 52.212-1, 52.212-3, and 52.212-4.

• Attachment A - Statement of Work (SOW) is provided.