Dogs have been utilized in law enforcement and police activity since the fifth century.
Modern police dog breeds are trained for a variety of activities, and specific police dog breeds are chosen for specific law enforcement jobs.
Some breeds are admired for their dedication to protecting their handlers and civilians.
Similarly, some police dog breeds are frequently trained solely for police work.
They are distinguished as the best detectives, trackers, and innocent guards.
K9 police smell out bombs and narcotics, trace and apprehend criminals, and perform a variety of other law enforcement missions such as search and rescue.
But which dog breeds make the greatest police dogs?
Unsurprisingly, some canines are far superior to others for this task.
We combed through the history of police canines to identify the 27 greatest dog breeds for police service and ranked them in this police dog breeds list.
27. Coonhound
Coonhounds, one of the popular scent police dog breeds employed for hunting small animals such as foxes, are also excellent police tracking dogs.
They are stubborn when looking for missing individuals and will follow a smell for kilometers.
They’re really soft and mellow, and their approach does not terrify individuals.
They’ll also trace narcotics.
Their strong, steadfast attitudes and solid physiques make them excellent police dogs today.
They are usually utilized for police work in Europe since they are loyal to their family and handlers and are intelligent enough to learn quickly.
In other cases, their characteristic, guttural growl is the forerunner to some severe hostility.
As a result, they are present in police work in areas where there is a need for riot control and formidable opponents.
26. Springer Spaniel
The Springer Spaniel is an excellent working dog that was designed to be an all-purpose hunting partner.
One of Springer’s strongest temperament features is its readiness to obey and please.
This makes them dependable law enforcement canines.
These dogs are small and compact in comparison to other law enforcement dogs.
They do, however, have a powerful moist nose that can effectively track a variety of things.
They are also quite good at tracking.
Springer Spaniels can use their nose to detect minor variations in wind and adjust their pattern to find the target.
It’s just amazing stuff!
This ability was extremely useful when hunting games, but it is currently being used to catch criminals and save lives.
25. Dutch Shepherd
The Dutch Shepherd is a cousin of the German Shepherd from the Netherlands.
It’s no coincidence that they both serve a greater purpose.
They’re both very similar in color and size, but their temperaments lead to different responsibilities in the police force.
Dutch Shepherds were developed in rural regions as “all-purpose farm dogs.”
They are, nonetheless, ideal for specific jobs due to their stature, intelligence, and physical abilities.
The American Dutch Shepherd Association states that these dogs are utilized for tracking, dog sports, herding, security, and occasionally one of the best police dog breeds.
They haven’t highlighted breeds in the police force, like the K-9 Unit, but it doesn’t mean they aren’t great at other things.
24. American Pitbull Terrier
The American Pitbull Terrier has been used in the military since World War II.
There are a few dogs that are commonly confused with the American Pitbull Terrier, but they are not the same dog.
As a result, Pitbulls have a terrible image that is mostly undeserved.
They do have a propensity for intimidation, but when properly educated, there’s really little cause for them to act out.
They can use their defensive abilities for good if they have adequately cared for.
As a result, many police departments have begun to use these canines in their operations.
Pitbulls are enormous, tough animals who can sprint fast and have a powerful bite!
There is no doubt that these dogs may be frightening, despite the fact that they are usually referred to as “nanny dogs” due to their devotion to their owners.
Pitbulls are also suitable for non-intimidating police or military tasks.
This covers fundamental station companionship.
They are affectionate canines who are devoted to those who love them.
As a result, they share a strong bond with their human counterparts.
These amazing and multitalented dogs are also great at search and rescue missions.
23. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is an American dog that was bred specifically for herding.
Australians have great physical prowess, allowing them to run after their herds at breakneck rates; imagine them doing the same with criminals!
These canines are very energetic and will perform admirably on the field.
Their primary job was to patrol the grounds to keep their livestock safe, thus patrol work comes naturally to them.
These are medium-sized police dog breeds that are proficient in a variety of police tasks.
They are excellent retrievers and can assist in search and rescue missions.
The Aussie’s protective attitude makes them effective at guarding people and places; if they’re good at anything, it’s keeping things safe!
They are not very violent canines, but they can be intimidating.
As a result, they’re an excellent alternative for when you require extra protection in delicate settings.
22. Belgian Tervuren
The Belgian Tervuren is an unusual dog breed with a natural aptitude for police service.
Because of their wolf-like look, they are good dogs for working the field and confronting criminals.
Their talent, however, extends far beyond being credible crime fighters.
They are also brave dogs who will not hesitate to put themselves in danger to help a mission or save one of their comrades.
Aside from that, they have extremely sensitive noses that make quick work of searching for harmful goods.
For this reason, they are a good choice for airline security, though many precincts keep them on hand for the invaluable service they provide.
Their incredible loyalty makes them excellent working dogs, providing companionship on long nights out on patrol.
This breed is an underappreciated police dog that we hope to see more of in the future!
21. German Shorthaired Pointer
Another notable hunting dog on our list is the German Shorthaired Pointer.
They are extremely athletic, with lean bodies and muscular legs that let them run at great speeds.
They’re also great swimmers.
They are intelligent, obedient, and eager to please their trainers. This makes it simple to teach them how to accomplish their tasks.
Because they have strong loyalty and love for their group, they are not the greatest police dog for confronting criminals.
They are, however, quite good at tracking anything from illegal narcotics to critical evidence at a crime scene.
This makes them appropriate for airport security, albeit they will not be as scary to criminals as other dog breeds.
Nonetheless, they are self-assured and capable dogs who are adept at using their noses for the benefit of all!
20. Giant Schnauzer
Schnauzers are some of the brightest and cutest police dog breeds on the planet.
The Giant Schnauzer is no exception, but its size makes them an excellent choice for police and military duties.
They’re not particularly aggressive dogs, but they’re certainly intimidating.
They are one of the Air Force’s sole working dogs.
They use their noses to detect unusual odors that demand additional inspection, as well as to investigate enclosed spaces for suspicious objects.
These dogs have a fantastic sense of smell, allowing them to detect many types of contraband.
They are superb security dogs who may alert you to the presence of unapproved firearms, illegal substances, and explosives.
Schnauzers are also exceptionally athletic dogs who enjoy patrolling.
In the end, they make an excellent partner both on and off the field. Their devotion and warmth are unparalleled!
19. Bouvier des Flandres
The Belgian breed Bouvier des Flandres has served heroically in the military.
During the conflict, they served as couriers, transporting supplies from base to base.
Because of their size, they were ideal for pulling ambulance stretchers for the injured.
This makes them excellent working dogs for both the military and the police.
They have a strong sense of duty and allegiance to the members of their pack, which in this case is the police force.
These dogs resemble giant fluffy balls of sunshine, which they frequently are.
They do, however, have a strong protective instinct that allows them to protect property, sites, and people with remarkable ferocity!
Avoid getting on this dog’s bad side, as they have powerful jaws and a vicious bite.
They’re obviously terrifying to be around, which makes them crucial to the K9 unit.
18. Briard
The Briard, a French breed of dog originally intended for herding and guarding, is one you may not be familiar with.
Briards are extremely loyal and, due to their innate protective instincts, make excellent police dogs.
Briards are another kind of combat veteran that served by identifying wounded soldiers and assisting in their rescue.
This makes them an excellent alternative for teams who require a dog for search and rescue missions.
The Briard has exceptionally acute senses and will always be able to alert its squad to any danger hiding in the shadows.
They are courageous and willing to risk their lives for the cause of others.
As a result, they are highly valued among police officers who have picked them as work partners.
Don’t be fooled by the Briard’s adorable and fluffy appearance; they mean business!
17. Labrador Retriever
You might be shocked to see a Labrador Retriever on this list, but they’re crucial to a lot of police work.
They aren’t scared; America’s most popular dog is known for being nothing but kind, adorable, and intelligent.
Their intellect makes them indispensable in police enforcement.
They are quite obedient and respond well to teaching.
Their primary function in the police force is as tracking dogs.
They have strong noses and can help bring up several leads where none previously existed.
Laboratories are excellent at detecting bombs and illegal drugs.
Their background as water retrievers also makes them valuable in situations where someone needs to be rescued from the water.
They are delicate enough not to injure the sufferer as well.
Overall, Labs are excellent dogs who are well-suited for a variety of service roles.
16. Bloodhound
It may surprise you to find that the earliest police dog breeds were Bloodhounds!
Hounds have a unique smell ability, and the Bloodhound is arguably the greatest.
The British police utilized this dog’s amazing sense of smell to track down serial killer Jack the Ripper.
Bloodhounds are still deployed in the police force today, despite their failure to find the culprit.
Their strong nostrils can detect and track scents across vast distances.
They’ve been a huge assistance in sniffing for almost anything: narcotics, bombs, dead bodies, alive bodies… you name it!
While there aren’t as many Bloodhounds working with cops these days, they did assist advance the employment of dogs in law enforcement.
Even if only indirectly, these furry buddies have made a significant contribution to keeping the globe safe for everyone.
They are truly among the greatest K9 heroes for this.
15. Anatolian Shepherd
These enormous canines were developed more than 6,000 years ago to guard cattle, so they are naturally cautious and wary.
They may weigh up to 150 pounds, and their booming bark is sure to scare away any potential intruders.
The drawback is that they can be very violent against guests and dogs they don’t know.
Additionally, because they are territorial, living in apartments is not for them because they require a lot of room to “patrol.”
Although they are devoted to and protective of their family, they are not always docile until given strict training.
14. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
Russian bear dog, Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian mountain dog, and Caucasian sheepdog are just a few of the nicknames for the Caucasian shepherd.
This is one of the most popular Russian dog breeds today, with a cute bear-like face.
Caucasian shepherds have a long, if somewhat murky, history as guard dogs since they can be strong and ferocious, especially around strangers.
The breed, which has its roots in the Caucasus Mountains, was initially employed for livestock and property protection, wolf and bear hunting, and livestock protection.
Later, the canines were employed to patrol the border at the Berlin Wall and protect captives in Soviet Gulag facilities.
A Caucasian shepherd is reported to be obedient, collected, and affectionate, especially after receiving the appropriate training.
It may require brushing daily and has a thick, water-resistant double coat that ranges in color from gray to white to yellow, red, and brindle.
13. Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is powerful and athletic and police and military K-9 teams appreciate its agility, search and rescue skills, and trainability.
This dog has a lot of energy and does best when given a task to do.
To feel at peace in a novel or unfamiliar circumstance needs particular training and appropriate socializing.
This dog has to exercise frequently each day.
They are excellent guarding dogs!
12. Komondor
The Komondor, known for its distinctive “dreadlocks,” has a white corded coat that resembles a mophead.
Don’t be fooled by its appearance, though.
The Komondor is a huge, tenacious, and brave working dog that was developed in Hungary to protect property and cattle.
It is affectionate with its relatives yet reticent towards outsiders.
With a well-designed training program, you can mold its inborn urge to defend.
The breed will need to be socialized in order to be exposed to various circumstances.
11. Puli
The exceptionally intelligent Pulis breed, which was developed for herding, is a great security dog.
They bark to warn their owners of anything strange since they are constantly on watch.
Pulis are very intelligent creatures that need constant company.
They are wonderful complements to busy households since they like jogging, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
The Puli is a small-medium breed of Hungarian herding and livestock guarding dog known for its long, corded coat.
The tight curls of the coat appear similar to dreadlocks.
A similar-looking, but much larger breed – also Hungarian – is the Komondor.
10. Cane Corso
This moniker, which means “bodyguard dog” when translated from Latin, refers to a breed of dog bred to be dedicated to its family.
The breed sometimes referred to as an Italian Mastiff, is large and frequently weighs more than 100 pounds.
The dog has an intimidating look thanks to its short, stiff coat, and it can be hostile against strangers.
According to Petful.com, it is thought to be pain-insensitive because even electric fences are unable to dissuade it.
However, the cane Corso is devoted to its family.
It is one of the greatest police dog breeds for these reasons, although it is not recommended for novice dog owners.
Training is essential to keep the cane Corso from “owning” its family.
9. Doberman pinscher
A sleek, strong, brave, and quick dog, the Doberman is one of the greatest police dog breeds.
As the fifth-smartest dog breed in the world, it is devoted to defending its owners and is constantly vigilant.
Similarly, Dobermans bark a much.
If necessary, they will take the danger seriously and corner or pin an intruder against a wall until humans can take control.
Doberman pinschers may be major clowns when they’re not working.
They are excellent jogging buddies and have high energy requirements.
Sadly, the breed is also predisposed to a wide range of health difficulties, including spinal compression, blood-clotting troubles, obesity, and skin problems.
8. Boxer
The boxer, a medium-sized dog, gets along well with youngsters and is friendly, lively, and tolerant.
These canines may be big, strong, and menacing looking, yet they are not aggressive.
The brindle dog breed, however, makes a fantastic watchdog with the right training.
However, they have a lot of energy and require regular exercise.
Additionally, compared to other police dog breeds, boxers are more prone to mast cell malignancies, ulcerative colitis, and cardiac problems.
7. American Staffordshire terrier
One of the many varieties of pit-bull dogs is the friendly, entertaining, and vivacious AmStaff.
According to the AKC, these dogs love cerebral stimulation and are quite personable.
They also need a lot of exercise, although they struggle to swim and might overheat in warm weather.
AmStaffs are strong and robust creatures that weigh between 50 and 80 pounds when they are fully grown.
They are also known for being pain-resistant.
AmStaffs require adequate training and socialization because of the breed’s lengthy history as a fighting dog and its innate desire to hunt game, especially if they live with children or other animals.
6. Akita
According to the AKC, this stocky Japanese mountain dog is regarded as a sign of longevity and good health in its own country.
The Japanese monarch and his family were protected by Akitas in the Middle Ages because they are naturally extremely protective.
The first American to possess an Akita was Helen Keller, who received one as a present while visiting Japan in 1937.
Akitas are lively and goofy dogs that are also incredibly pleasant creatures and fantastic guarding dogs.
The Akita Rescue Society of America claims that they typically only bark when there is a really excellent cause.
Akitas should be trained from an early age to learn how to behave around both people and other dogs because they can be hostile against them.
5. Rottweiler
Rotties, as they are often referred to by their admirers, are fiercely devoted to their families and may be playful and lovely with them.
According to the AKC, rottweilers may seem distant to strangers.
Actually derived from ancient mastiffs, the breed was on the verge of extinction in the late 1800s.
When fully mature, Rotties weigh on average approximately 100 pounds, making them slightly smaller than their mastiff cousins, but they can still be intimidating and can back it up with their bite.
Because they may do serious harm, rottweilers must be socialized and trained from an early age so they know when it is and is not appropriate to act violently.
Their barking may be kept from becoming a bother through training.
4. Great Dane
The Scooby-Doo breed is this.
However, unlike the awkward Scoob, actual Great Danes are elegant in spite of their tremendous height of roughly 30 inches, according to CanineBible.com.
In addition to being brave, they also have a deep, ominous bark—not at all like Shaggy’s closest pal.
Great Danes make fantastic guardians because of their imposing stature and distinctive bark.
However, they have loving, kind attitudes and are probably not going to really bite an intruder, much like the cartoon dog.
Great Danes like playing and being tolerant of children.
They typically survive for six to ten years, and they are more likely to suffer from gastrointestinal, bone, and cardiac diseases.
3. German shepherd
This German dog breed is often regarded as one of the greatest guard dogs due to its intimidating height and powerful bark.
The AKC claims that this dog’s loyalty and courage know no limitations and that it would risk its own life to protect its family.
It is easy to train and a natural learner.
However, a German shepherd occasionally takes its duty a bit too seriously and has to be trained to be calm around visitors to the house or you.
Before adopting one, keep in mind that these dogs sweat a lot and like having a task to perform.
2. Tibetan mastiff
One of the most excellent guard dogs available is the Tibetan mastiff, which was developed in the Himalayas to protect both humans and cattle.
DiNardo claims that besides being aloft, cognitively alert, attentive, and somewhat primal, this giant breed is also strong-willed and extremely possessive.
You should be informed that if you maintain a Tibetan mastiff in your house, it could not welcome guests.
But when with family members, it will be calm and kind.
One of the most costly police dog breeds is the Tibetan mastiff.
1. Airedale terrier
The Airedale is known as the “king of terriers” and is affectionate and lively, at times appearing to have no “off” button.
However, Airedales are among the guarding dog breed for families since they get along well with children, are rapid learners, and are typically regarded to be hypoallergenic.
The breed developed a reputation for bravery and concentration during World War I as a result of the dogs’ work as sentries and messengers, according to the AKC.
Airedales are prepared to love on everyone the family welcomes, but they will bark nonstop and use their strong jaws if required if they perceive a threat.
However, Airedales dislike being left alone and may engage in chewing and digging if they become bored.
Unless trained otherwise, they can also be violent with other animals and even play a bit too rough with their family.
The last time an Airedale won the Westminster Dog Show was in 1933. They are distinguished by their folded-down ears and bearded chin.
What Characters do police dog breeds have?
It is difficult to generalize police dog characteristics because the functions of law enforcement canines vary.
Individually, special dog handlers assist in identifying good qualities in potential patrolling pups.
However, here are some broad characteristics that K-9 trainers assess when determining whether or not a particular Fido is suitable for police work.
Intelligence
Popular police dog breeds are highly trainable and eager to obey directions even while under duress.
This usually means that dogs utilized in law enforcement must be extremely intelligent in order to fulfill their duties flawlessly.
Working dogs must be aware of their environment in order to do their duties properly. All police pups are hardworking hounds who are always ready to go.
Alertness
As part of their job, police dogs must be able to constantly listen to their handler’s directions.
If a dog is attentive and easily trained, he is more likely to be a suitable choice for law enforcement.
Agility
Law enforcement dogs must be agile and capable of navigating a variety of terrain types.
They must also be able to work in confined areas and other situations where humans would struggle.
Obedience
Police dogs must be passionately loyal to their masters in order for the partnership to be successful.
A solid bond between the handler and his or her police dog is essential.
Excellent Work Ethic
Police dogs are working canines, which means they have different demands and routines than a dog who spends his entire day at home with his family.
As a result, one of the primary roles of police dogs is to have a high work drive to keep up with the demands of their daily activity.
Strength
A powerful, muscular frame keeps police dogs safe while performing daily activities such as patrolling, apprehending suspects, and rescuing stranded humans.
Police canines must be strong enough to handle the tough requirements of these occupations.
Conclusion
While we’ve identified 27 of the greatest dog breeds for police and military service, there’s little doubt that there will be a lot more variation in the future.
Mixed breed dogs, in particular, have been bred for temperaments that lend themselves well to working as support animals.
The next time you see a canine police officer, give them a salute (but don’t pet them) for all they do to keep us safe!
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