K9 Unit

The mission of the Denver Sheriff Department (DSD) K9 Unit is to enhance the department’s efforts in providing safety for those in our care, visitors, staff, and service to the community.

The K9 Unit attends community events and provides important information about different types of K9s and what they do when they're working. To help the community better understand what that looks like, demonstrations are given by the K9s and their handlers. The K9 Unit attends job fairs, as well, to motivate future deputies to apply. 

Check out the K9 image gallery!

Five K9s on the K9 team are shown facing the camera, each in their own frame.

Active K9s

A Guide To Interacting With Working Dogs

Step 1.Ask Permission Before Petting

Always ask if it is okay to pet a K9 – they might be working or training. If petting is okay, ask about the best way to approach the dog (dogs have their own personalities). Just remember, every time you have the chance to pet a working K9, ask first.

Step 2.A K9's Property Is Their Safe Zone

Disturbing K9s hanging out in their office or vehicle can cause unnecessary stress. Don't put your face up to the window or stick your fingers through the gap in the window. This is also to keep you safe!

Step 3.K9s Can Be Reactive

Just like all animals (including us), K9s can be provoked. Stay safe by not staring, hovering, putting your face up to theirs, or approaching from behind. They may use their teeth or paws if they experience excitement, fear, or surprise, so make sure you ask the handler how to socialize with their dog.

Step 4.No Commands Or Treats

Since K9s are here to keep us all safe, it is critical that they listen to their handlers. If you try to give the K9 commands, or distract it in another way, the situation could become dangerous. Giving treats will also compromise a K9’s ability to do their job and, like people, they may be on a special diet and cannot be fed certain foods. Always ask first!

Step 5.It's Not You, It's Us

So true! If you get turned down when you ask to pet a K9, don't be offended. We're all on the same team! A lot of training goes into this job and each K9 performs differently. But, if the time is right, we're happy for you to meet and pet the dogs! 

Contact Us

Location

Denver

K9 Team Types

Explosives

The explosives K9 teams perform exterior and interior checks at the courthouse. They play a critical role by providing a strong visible and psychological deterrent against possible attacks. The unit also offers immediate response to bomb threats, unattended packages, and other dangerous items.


Narcotics/Contraband

The narcotics/contraband K9 teams perform exterior and interior checks for multiple facilities maintained by the Denver Sheriff Department. This unit is responsible for detecting narcotics and unauthorized cellphones in buildings, vehicles, packages, and on people. Just having a K9 around helps reduce the flow and distribution of illegal drugs within the jails and other facilities.

 

 

Back to top