What Does It Take to Become a Police K-9 Officer?

Becoming a K-9 police officer requires much more than simply a love of dogs. The process involved in becoming a K-9 officer can take several years of patience and diligent service.

Graduation from Police Academy

A person who desires to someday become a K-9 officer is required to go through the same training that all other would-be police officers go through and graduate from a police academy before anything else is considered.

Be a Good Police Officer

Only the best police officers are selected to become K-9 officers. The officers must show they are willing to abide by rules and be dependable.

Time

An officer must work for at least three to five years before an opportunity to be a K-9 cop arises. Sometimes an officer must wait even longer.

Volunteer

Police officers who want to become K-9 officers can find their way into a program by volunteering to suit up in a protective outfit and let the dogs attack him to train.

Willingness to Train

A K-9 officer must train with his canine companion for weeks or even months before he can go on duty with the dog.

Resources

• About Police Canines