What does it take to become a K9 officer?

Question

Can an officer become one straight out of the police academy, or is it more seniority based?

Answer 1

If your department has a canine unit, then tell your supervisor that you are interested in training for that position.

Remember, both the dog and the handler must go through rigorous training to become a TEAM.  More officers wash out of the training than dogs do. (Kind of makes you wonder which is smarter!?!) Good luck.

Answer 2

Well, uhh, you gotta be a K9, a dog.

Answer 3

K-9 officer.....usually a lot of people want that position.  You have to be chosen for the position.  You have to do the same thing every officer has to do.  You can't just apply to be a K-9 officer.

Answer 4

An officer normally needs to get past the "rookie" stage before an agency allows a new officer to take upon more tasks within the department.

Normally, the larger the department, the more working dogs!

The handlers are volunteers who are required to not only complete the normal working shift...but extra time to care for the K-9 before and after shift.

If the agency doesn't allow the K-9 to "live" with the officer, that means you've got to travel to and from home to where the K-9 is kenneled to care for it!

I've worked my K-9 for eight years now and we're not just "partners" ... but best friends!