Can u use other dog if ur a k9 unit?

Question

Ive seen some k9 units use other dogs than the g shepherd i wanted to know if u could use ur own dog cause i would want to be a k9 officer but i would love to use a A.P.B.T or a American bulldog me personal i think they would be much better cop dogs but that's just me with no experience that y i ask

Answer 1

No.  You can only use what is authorized by the department.

Answer 2

Normally, you cannot use your own dog.  All agencies purchase their dogs and give them to their handler/owner.  Upon retirement, the agency sells the K9 to the handler for $1.00.

There are many other breeds in Law Enforcement than GSD.  Bloodhounds, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels.  Generally a good police dog is one that is a hard worker and intelligent.  K9's have many requirements depending on what they will be used for.  Example, Bloodhounds have a very acute sense of smell.  Therefore, tracking is their best use.  The breed of dog is usually purchased to fill a specific need.

Answer 3

I've seen cops using Chihuahua's in their K-9 units.Sure use any breed you want to.

Answer 4

From personal experience with a supposed bomb squad, I am not sure the dog is as important as the officer having the heart and courage to approach a dangerous situation.  I swear I had to go into the building as a civilian because the "bomb team" would not.  If given a choice, I would go with a basset hound.  They have an amazing sense of smell.  But there may be a problem with him eating someones bagged lunch!  I see no problem with other breeds than shepards unless the trainers have one.

Answer 5

You may use another breed, but not your own dog.  The dog is taken as a puppy and put into training by the department, and they own the dog.  You wouldn't want the liability associated with using a dog you own, trust me.

Answer 6

In beverly hills they use chihuaha's.

Answer 7

You will use the dog that they assign you, not the dog you would like to have.