When it comes to safety and security of major events like the upcoming G7 Summit, tracking down a suspect in Canada’s untamed wilderness, or patrolling our vast borders, our RCMP Members are at the forefront, managing complex security operations and ensuring the safety of dignitaries and citizens alike.
But they don’t always do it alone. Enter their four-legged partners—RCMP police dogs! These incredible German Shepherds are more than just adorable faces; they complement the officers’ capabilities, forming the highly skilled RCMP Police Dog Service (PDS) teams across Canada.
From playful pups to professional protectors, an RCMP police dog’s journey is nothing short of fascinating. These dogs and their handlers undergo rigorous training to become the heroes we rely on.
Enter the World-Class Breeding and Training Program!
The Police Dog Service Training Centre (PDSTC) in Innisfail, Alberta, has a robust scientific breeding program that ensures the RCMP is supplied with some of the highest quality working dogs.
Throughout their time at the PDSTC, puppies are first auditioned and then introduced into their future professions—learning valuable police dog skills as well as learning how to remain calm and comfortable in a variety of dynamic and changing situations. Puppies are monitored throughout their time at PDSTC, with the most suitable pups graduating from the facility to em-bark on their careers across Canada.
Fun fact: the PDSTC is celebrating their 65th anniversary this year!
Once the puppies are ready and assigned a handler, the new teams undergo training in obedience, tracking, narcotics or explosives detection, and criminal apprehension.
After “graduating” from the PDSTC, Police Dog Service teams form a close-knit partnership, often living and training together. This bond is essential for effective communication and teamwork, especially during high-stress situations like major events or border patrols.
Putting Their Training to the Test
Imagine the hustle and bustle of a major event like the G7 Summit. World leaders, dignitaries, and media from around the globe in one place, making security a top priority. Using their extensive training in detecting explosives, narcotics, and even tracking down individuals, PDS teams help secure every corner of some of the biggest events in the world.
At the border, these heroes are also vital to our security. Their keen sense of smell and agility make them perfect for patrolling the vast and often challenging terrains.
RCMP police dogs are essential Members of Canada’s security team. So, the next time you hear about a major event or border security operation, remember the paws on patrol and the Members making it all possible!
Visit the Police Dog Services Training Centre’s events to see these amazing teams in action! Learn more:
And want to learn more about how police dogs are trained and what makes the PDSTC so special? Check out our video, Pup Patrol!