Dealing with Unscrupulous Police Dog Kennels: A Guide for Law Enforcement and Dog Handlers
- Mike Bullock
- Jul 13
- 5 min read
When it comes to selecting a police dog kennel, the process should incorporate thorough research and a keen eye for quality. Unfortunately, untrained kennel owners are all too common, often prioritizing profit over the welfare and selection of the dogs. It is essential for law enforcement agencies, dog handlers, and the department heads to understand the potential pitfalls associated with these kennels. This blog post aims to warn and educate readers about unethical practices, poor training standards, and the critical importance of certifications in this field.
The Dark Side of Police Dog Kennels
Understanding the issues surrounding unscrupulous police dog kennels helps in recognizing what to avoid in your search for a reputable establishment. Various unethical practices can manifest in police dog training. Some kennels may engage in the following:
Neglectful Living Conditions: Dogs in these establishments might be confined to cramped spaces, lacking proper ventilation, sanitation, or space to exercise. Always pay attention the dogs mannerisms, is it healthy acting, in good condition, ready to work?
Improper Selection Standards: Many unscrupulous kennels do not adhere to behavioral science principles. Testing the drives for hunt and retrieve with sound social and environmental skills are essential, Proper medical reports about the dog is very important. As a result, dogs may not have been hand selected and tested. Some so called trainers are not qualified to select a police K9 candidate.
Lack of Certification: Legitimate kennels often boast various certifications which validate their training practices and standards. Without these, you may find yourself dealing with subpar skills that could pose a danger during operations. Bullocks K9 suggests each team get independent certification yearly.
Misinformation: Some kennels may misrepresent their training programs, misleading potential buyers or police agencies into believing they provide high-quality dogs. Of course sometimes dogs will be lesser quality than others but the meat and potato's K9s will be the dog that will work well in all environments, especially when paired with a motivated handler.
Identifying Red Flags
To effectively avoid unscrupulous kennels, it's crucial to identify common red flags. Here are some signs that an establishment may not be reputable:
Overly Low Prices: If a kennel's pricing seems too good to be true, it probably is. High-quality training involves significant investment, and low prices might indicate neglected dogs or poor training standards or even worse, Dogs that are not suited for police work. Remember cheap dogs aren't good and good dogs aren't cheap
Lack of Transparency: If you can't get straightforward answers about the origines of the dogs and the testing guidelines used to select the dogs or the kennel's facilities, consider it a warning sign. Reputable kennels will be transparent about their operations.
No Certifications: Always ask for credentials! experience! Kennels should have trained dogs to appropriate certification standards. Kennels should be recognized by agencies in the dog training community. If they don't or if they seem hesitant to provide proof, this can indicate that something is amiss, remember if you hear of complaints there maybe something wrong.
Limited Client Testimonials: Authentic reviews from past clients can reveal a lot about a kennel's reputation. If you can't find any testimonials or if they appear generic, it's best to keep looking.
Poor Kennel Conditions: When visiting, be observant. Dogs should have access to clean, spacious, and safe areas. If you notice unsanitary conditions or stressed animals, it could be a sign that the kennel prioritizes profits over care.
The Importance of Proper Training and Certifications
Selecting a reputable police dog kennel should not just be about finding a dog; it should also involve ensuring the animal is well-trained. The importance of proper medical testing, selection and training techniques cannot be overstated:
Behavioral Training: Working dog kennels employ trainers who utilize tried and true methods. They select dogs that working in their program. This assures dogs learn tasks effectively and enhances their ability to perform at a high level.
Socialization: Proper training also includes socialization with both humans and other animals. This can reduce anxiety and aggression, creating a balanced dog suitable for police work.
Certification Validation: A K9 team( handler and dog) independently certified means that a kennel meets higher standards of training and care. Verification from organizations like the American Working Dog Association can serve as a quality endorsement.
Better Performance: Dogs that receive rigorous training under reputable kennels perform better in the field. This can lead to successful narcotics searches, K9 apprehensions, reduced liability, and a more effective police force.
Actionable Advice for Selecting a Reputable Kennel
Choosing the right kennel can save time, money, and lives. Here are actionable steps you can take to ensure you select a trustworthy facility:
Do Thorough Research: Investigate within reasonable distances training kennels. Look for references, feedback from other law enforcement agencies or dog handlers that have had that kennels dogs in the past.
Visit the Facility: If possible, visit the kennel in person. Observe the conditions and how staff interact with the dogs. Pay attention to the dogs’ behavior and welfare. Watch dogs work, see if they perform tasks while in training.
Ask for selection test qualifications: Police departments should develop their own standards/testing for selecting K9s. If not seek an independent training professional that can help. I have listed my testing standards on bullocksk9kennels.com
Inquire About Trainer Qualifications: Ask about the credentials of trainers. Reputable kennels will share information about their training philosophy and methods. Bullocks k9 is an open book when it comes to staff and training philosophies.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off during your interactions, trust your instincts. Never send money to a training facility with out the dog being on site. If a training kennel needs your money before they can secure your department a dog, Run away!
Resources for Research and Verification
To aid in your search for a reputable police dog kennel, consider these valuable resources:
American Working Dog Association : A hub for various dog training standards and certification programs. They can help you locate certified kennels in your vicinity.
State and Local Law enforcement Associations: Many states have their associations, which often provide lists of accredited kennels and trainers.
Online Reviews: Websites like Yelp or Google Reviews often contain valuable insights from past clients. If you see some issues contact that kennel, ask about the issues you discovered, it maybe something simple. Cant please everyone. But this can be a preliminary filtering tool.
Forums and Social Media Groups: Online communities dedicated to police dog training can offer firsthand accounts and recommendations.
In conclusion, the search for a reputable police dog kennel doesn't have to be daunting. By educating yourself on the potential pitfalls associated with unscrupulous facilities and actively assessing your options, you will be able to find a quality establishment that prioritizes the welfare, training and selection of its dogs. Always remember: the right training can mean the difference between success and failure in high-stakes law enforcement situations. Always!!! If you have success with kennels in the past, revisit them to find out if they have candidates you can select from.
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