In 2007, three more handler teams were added to the Unit, bringing the the number of K9 teams on the CSPD K9 Unit to nine. All nine teams are patrol support and assist other specialized units.

All new handlers must go through a 440 hour K9 Academy with their canine partner. That academy is completed within the Unit under the direction of the Unit Trainer, Officer Troy Rosenoff. Once the K9 Academy is completed, Teams enter field training and begin handling K9 calls for service under the supervision of a field training officer. Once the teams have completed the requirements of field training they are cleared to work the streets.

The CSPD K9 Unit currently has two German Shepherds, three Belgian Malinois and four Dutch Shepherds.

1) Tracking

2) Building Search

3) Field Search

4) Handler Protection

5) Physical Apprehension

Standards of performance are in compliance with United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) standards.

EVALUATION PROCESS:

During training, the teams will be reviewed by the Canine Supervisor as to their suitability for deployment. Each team will be evaluated on the following:

1) Field Obedience

2) Building Search

3) Tracking

4) Field Search

5) Handler Protection

6) Aggression Control

When a handler leaves the unit and would be leaving an older canine, an assessment by the chain of command will evaluate the cost effectiveness of retraining the animal to a new handler or retiring a qualified animal to the original handler.