The Police Officer's Guide to K9 Searches

Unlock the Power of Police Service Dogs in Law Enforcement

Modern police officers have an array of tools at their disposal, but few are as effective―or as misunderstood―as the police service dog. Whether tracking a fleeing suspect, locating hidden evidence, or detecting narcotics and explosives, these highly trained K9s are invaluable assets in the field. Yet many officers, both new and experienced, lack a clear understanding of how to work alongside them.

This essential guide bridges that gap, providing officers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about K9 deployments. From understanding the capabilities of police service dogs to ensuring proper backup and scene containment, this book serves as an indispensable resource for any law enforcement professional.

Inside, you’ll discover:

• How police service dogs work – Their training, capabilities, and role in modern policing.
• When and why to call for a K9 unit – The key scenarios where a dog’s unique skills can assist in investigations.
• How to support a K9 team – Best practices for containment, safety, and increasing the effectiveness of K9 deployments.

Whether you're a recruit in the academy, an experienced officer, or an instructor, this book will enhance your ability to integrate police service dogs into your work―maximizing safety, efficiency, and success in the field.

Dr. Stephen A. Mackenzie was a deputy sheriff for more than 20 years and trained and handled police service dogs for more than 30 years. A popular seminar instructor, he testified in both criminal and civil cases as a court-recognized expert in animal behavior. He was an integral part of the International Police K9 Conference, where he worked with thousands of police K9 teams over the years, and was a professor of animal science at the State University of New York at Cobleskill. Stephen passed away on March 22, 2021.

Robert S. Eden is a retired 28 year police veteran. Working with the Delta Police Department in British Columbia, Canada, Robert became a member of the dog section in 1983 and was appointed to the B.C. Police Commission’s committee to create minimum police dog training standards for law enforcement agencies in the province. In 1991 he created and developed the International Police K9 Conference, a training seminar that was neither politically oriented nor specific to any particular style of training. Robert continues to consult worldwide on police K9 operations.