ONALASKA, Wis. -- Police K-9 units from Wisconsin and Minnesota are putting their skills to the test.

Nearly 20 handlers and their dogs are taking part in an intensive two days of scenario-based training using old buildings in Onalaska.

These dogs have quite a skill set -- apprehending criminals, locating missing people, detecting narcotics and even explosives.

Lt. Trace Erickson’s dog Ike is more than just his pet. He's his partner.

"It's part of the family, it's friendly. But when these dogs get in this squad car, they know that their job is to protect their handler," said Erickson.

This week’s simulations of building searches means bite decoy Kenny McDonough is taking a lot of hits.

"While I'm wearing the suit, it's just a lot of pressure. There's no puncture marks or anything like that... No, there's nothing much like it. Because that's what those dogs are trained to do. They mean business… It's my hobby... Some people fish, we do this," said McDonough.

These dogs may have cost McDonough some skin, but they don't cost much to law enforcement when compared to the price of hiring a human.

"It can put another police officer on the street with minimal costs. You know, we're not paying this dog on a daily salary. We're not paying insurance on this dog for his family," said Erickson.

That doesn't mean it's cheap. The training carries about a $20,000-$25,000 price tag.

Being part of a K-9 unit isn't just a job, it's a lifestyle. These canine crime fighters actually live with their handlers.

"These dogs become so bonded with their handlers that they become part of their family. I spend more time with on a daily basis, on average, with this dog than I do with my family," said Erickson.

The officers want to remind everyone that the training is not open to the public. So if you see a group of police vehicles and K-9’s, do not stop to watch them in action, for your own safety.