Police dogs (K-9s) are dogs specifically trained to assist law enforcement officers. They are considered official police officers and live at home with their partners when not on duty. German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois are the most commonly used breeds in law enforcement, but there are several dog breeds, such as Bloodhounds and Labradors, that are also well suited for police work. Police dogs are an integral component of crime prevention and detection. They provide visible support to officers and a presence that defuses potentially dangerous situations.
The Lancaster City K-9 division was instituted in 1960 and referred to as the K-9 Corps, but was quickly disbanded and re-established in 1991. The Lancaster City Bureau of Police has chosen to utilize German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois in our K-9 Unit because these breeds have been historically proven to be highly intelligent, easily trainable, and naturally protective. These breeds are also incredibly affectionate and loving which is why our department tasks this unit with community engagement opportunities. These types of events provide the K-9 division with the opportunity to build long-standing relationships with community members through positive interactions with the Lancaster City Bureau of Police.
To join the K-9 Unit, an officer must meet the physical demands of a K-9 handler, be a full-time officer with the department for at least 4 years, demonstrate the ability to form long-lasting and positive relationships in the community, and have a proven record of upholding the mission and core values of the department throughout their tenure. They must also make a long-term commitment to the K-9 Unit and demonstrate the ability to care for and love their K-9 partner.
K-9 Services
- Explosives Detection
- Narcotic Detection
- Patrol
- Tracking
- Demonstrations
Support the K-9 Unit
The K-9 Unit is funded through the Lancaster Police Foundation and citizen donations. If you would like to support our K-9 Unit, please contact Lt. Glenn Stoltzfus by phone at 717-735-1784 or by email at [email protected].
