are dog handlers in law enforcement allowed to take the dogs home with them when they're off duty?

Answer 1

I have been "pushing a puppy" for eight years now. My department is smaller and as such doesn't have the resources as some with bigger budgets. As such, one condition is allowing the canine to reside in the home.

A larger department next to my own does just the opposite. They require their canines to be housed at the departments kennel located close to headquarters.

Moreso, the reasons many departments choose to house the canines in a department kennel is to insure there is a lower liability while being housed in a controlled environment.

The military does the same with their canine.

I have to agree with those who comment that housing the canine with the handler provides for a closer "relationship" or bonding with the dog.

My canine is a labrador retriever that is more well suited for his temperment than other breeds therefore there is less concern for liability within my own agency!

Best wishes.

Answer 2

I believe most of them do. It is better for the dog and fosters a closer bond. Many of the dogs are retired to the handlers as well, I think.

Answer 3

No, not all departments allow this. However in most departments the handler will have the option of taking the dog when the dog retires.

Answer 4

Here in my city, dog handlers are EXPECTED to take the dogs home. They live with them at thier houses (in specially built kennels). Canine officers are subjected to frequent call outs and need to have their dogs close by.

Answer 5

Yes, the dogs are part of the Officer's family and they bond with their handler.

Answer 6

In our area, dogs are required to live with their handlers. Helps them keep a strong connection, the dog is more willing to protect (and serve) ;)

Answer 7

Yes,the dog lives with us..They are with us all the time and when we are not working they are just like another family member..Horses in the police department are the only animal that is not taken home with the officer they are stabled at the prisinct stable.

Answer 8

yes that is one way that the officer and dog bond. Normally they are with that dog all the time. That includes taking the dog home.

Answer 9

I grew up with state cop for a father, he had a dog for a while, the dog ended up being more loyal to myself and my brother and sister than he was to our dad (we were at the age of play fighting, 6 and 8, and JD (the dog) would grab our dad and pull him away from us when we got wrestling.)

Answer 10

i believe yes because it strengthens the bond between the dog and the handler thus enhancing performance