Our dog handlers
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As Canada's national police force, we have more than 160 Police Dog Service (PDS) teams posted across Canada. This is the largest number of operational PDS teams in Canada.
Becoming a Police Service Dog handler
Police Service Dog (PSD) handlers with the RCMP must be:
- a regular member of the RCMP
- an above average investigator
- able to work independently
- self motivated
- physically fit
- willing to maintain a fitness lifestyle
They also need to:
- successfully complete the Potential Police Service Dog Imprinting course
- imprint puppies and demonstrate dog compatibility
- successfully complete a course on using maps, compasses, and satellite navigation systems
- successfully complete the Potential PDS Handler Selection Week
- successfully complete the 5-month dog handler training course with their police service dog partner
We encourage our police dog handlers to:
- be involved with their communities
- become proactive in youth education (particularly vulnerable youth)
- be positive role models for youth
Qualities of a good Police Service Dog handler
Beyond the requirements of the job itself, good dog handlers must be:
- patient
- considerate of the impact of their actions on their PSD partner
- decisive
- flexible
- emotionally disciplined
- even-tempered
- able to take responsibility for their PSD partner's actions
- able to respect their PSD partner's uniqueness and talents
Becoming a Police Service Dog trainer
Police Service Dog trainers must:
- be an experienced PSD handler in the RCMP
- demonstrate proficiency in facilitation techniques and adult learning
- have a thorough knowledge of a range of advanced PSD training techniques
- have extensive involvement in training PSD teams
- assist in developing colleagues in the effective training of police service dogs
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