Police officers assigned to the canine unit work with police dogs to capture suspects and to find or recognize dangerous or illegal items, such as explosives and drugs. Canine (K-9) officers receive additional training because they carry out the duties of a regular officer and a canine officer. Canine unit officers should have a love for dogs; once you are assigned to a K-9 unit, you will be partnered with your animal instead of another human being.
Instructions
1. Possess a high school diploma or equivalent; this is the minimum amount of education the majority of law enforcement agencies require for a police officer candidate. In some cases, they may require an associate's or bachelor's degree.
2. Check with your local law enforcement agency about training, testing, physical and psychological requirements. Applicants must pass a written exam that measures their analytical skills. To be eligible to attend the police academy, you must meet all necessary requirements.
3. Apply to attend the police academy. Here you will learn skills and experience official police training to prepare for the work ahead of you. You cannot become a canine police officer without proper police education.
4. Apply to the police departments that you are interested in working for after graduating from the police academy.
5. Gain experience as a uniformed officer. Becoming a K-9 officer is very competitive, and to stand out from your peers, you should take as many additional certification classes and continuing educational classes as possible.
6. Maintain top physical fitness. Fitness is particularly important for canine officers, because they must be able to keep up with and handle their dogs during training and on the job.
7. After a few years in uniform, apply to the K-9 unit at your police department.
8. Complete K-9 training. This is an intensive course that includes canine obedience and team confidence. After you are chosen to become a K-9 officer, get acquainted with your new partner.
9. Continue to train your dog on a daily basis by reinforcing lessons learned during K-9 training. If regular training does not occur, the dog will not perform adequately.
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