A police dog must show instinctive traits against potential threats.
It takes a special dog with the right personality and learning capability to serve alongside police officers. Police dogs perform a variety of different tasks within the law enforcement department like catching criminals, sniffing out drugs and rescuing people trapped under debris. Although the dogs undergo a rigorous two- to three-year training period and may be returned to you if they do not meet law enforcement standards, your dog may have the potential to save lives and prevent crime.
Instructions
1. Contact your local law enforcement department. Each county has its own process for selecting dogs suitable to serve as police canines. Breed rescue centers and local shelters may also have information about police departments that accept dog donations.
2. Take your dog to the veterinarian to receive up-to-date vaccinations. Request an updated shot and health document from your veterinarian after the procedure.
3. Allow a law enforcement-contracted dog trainer lead your dog through several personality and situational tests. Personality tests can range from basic commands to assessing how the canine reacts with strangers and other canines. Situational tests can include an obstacle course or assessing how the dog reacts to aggressive persons. The trainer will use the results from the assessment to see whether your dog meets the requirements for police work.
4. Complete the necessary paperwork. Once the trainer and the law enforcement agency have given approval, you will be given a contract that transfers legal ownership of your dog over to the police canine training force. Read over the contract and sign. Some police departments will contact you and return your dog if it does not meet training standards.
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