Everything You Need to Know About Police Dogs (Diensthunde) and Their Specialized Training in Germany
When talking about the German police, we cannot overlook a loyal, intelligent, and highly trained partner: police dogs (Diensthunde).
These dogs play an indispensable role in policing—from detecting drugs to tracking criminals, protecting officers, and supporting rescue units. In this article, we explain how they are selected, trained, and deployed in the field.
Why are police dogs used?
Exceptional sense of smell: They can detect scents at extremely precise levels, far beyond human capability.
Speed and flexibility: They help chase suspects across difficult terrain or in hard-to-reach areas.
Protection capability: They are used to protect officers and crowds during major events.
What tasks do police dogs perform?
Drug and explosive detection
Trained to identify specific odors hidden in bags, vehicles, or buildings.
Tracking people
Searching for missing persons or suspects fleeing crime scenes.
Locating hidden evidence in large open areas.
Control and protection
Used to control suspects during raids.
Accompany special intervention units (SEK) during high-risk operations.
Detection of mines and hazardous materials
Especially during the security of major events or official visits.
How are dogs selected?
Strong, intelligent breeds are preferred, such as:
German Shepherd (Deutscher Schäferhund)
Belgian Malinois
Dutch Shepherd
Dogs are assessed for health, physical strength, responsiveness, and focus.
Training stages
Stage 1: Foundation
Basic obedience, such as sit, stay, and recall.
Stage 2: Specialization
Training to detect specific scents.
Training to attack and control without unnecessary harm.
Stage 3: Joint training
Working with the handler (Hundeführer) to strengthen the bond.
Practicing realistic scenarios that simulate field operations.
The bond between the dog and the handler (Hundeführer)
The responsible officer is the dog’s permanent partner, often living with it even outside working hours.
This close bond builds trust and smooth coordination during missions.
Service duration and retirement
Police dogs typically serve for 8 to 10 years.
After retirement, they often stay with the handler who trained them, or are placed with suitable families.
Field equipment
Strong collars with tracking devices.
Protective vests against stabbing or gunfire (for high-risk missions).
Special footwear to protect paws in rough or hot environments.
Role at major events
Securing stadiums and festivals by detecting explosives.
Preventing the smuggling of prohibited items during mass gatherings.
Conclusion
Police dogs (Diensthunde) represent an impressive model of human–animal cooperation in public security.
Thanks to their intelligence and advanced training, they help save lives, protect officers, and fight crime daily.
Whenever you see a police dog on duty, remember: behind that capability are years of training, a deep human bond, and extraordinary loyalty.
The writers and editors on the website strive to provide accurate information through extensive research and by consulting multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Therefore, please consider the information in these articles as an initial reference and always consult the relevant competent authorities for verified information.
