What is the Method Used to Train State Police Dogs?

Dogs in training courses used to be trained with the harsh, broken method, which usually involved spanking or beating. As of 2010, training programs are geared toward learning and less toward obedience through fear.

  1. Temperament and Obedience Test

    • Before a dog can be admitted into Police K-9 training, it has to be tested for temperament. If a dog exhibits aggressive tendencies or is very unresponsive to exercises, it's likely that the dog will not be a candidate for training. These traits are undesirable in a police working situation, as a police dog needs to be reliable.

    Step by Step

    • Police K-9 programs start with the basics. They first train a dog how to pick up scents and distinguish one scent from a multitude of others. One exercise that trainers often use is a simple one regarding gauze. A trainer's associate, or track layer, places a section of gauze in her pocket for a few hours. The track layer then sets the gauze down and runs to a designated location, out of sight. The gauze sit for 10 to 20 minutes. After the time is up, the K-9 will be introduced to the smell and should begin to pick up on the track that the track layer left.

    Environment

    • Police dogs in training are introduced to a multitude of environments slowly. The team might begin by allowing the dog to track on grass or through quiet neighborhoods. Eventually, they will work up to busy intersections and crowded places as the dog advances.