Police K9
Training and Certification Programs
At John K9, we develop dependable, street-ready police K9 teams through evidence-based training, high-stress scenario work, and world-class instruction. Our programs are built to create confident handlers, rock-solid dogs, and deployable teams who perform with reliability when it matters most.
With a combined 200+ years of canine training experience and more than 50 years in law enforcement operations, our instructors prepare teams for real-world deployment—not just test-day performance. From dual-purpose patrol dogs to advanced detection specialists, we deliver training that meets and exceeds state and national certification standards.
Whether your agency needs a fully trained K9, maintenance training for an existing team, or acquisition support to source your next partner, our facility and staff are equipped to provide the highest level of service.
WHY AGENCIES TRUST JOHN K9
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Over 200 years combined dog training expertise
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Over 50 years combined law enforcement and operational K9 experience
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Certified instructors with FDLE, USPCA, and national credentials
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Safety-focused decoy team specializing in developmental and scenario-based work
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Real-world scenario training, not just test prep
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Transparent communication, professional reporting, and handler mentorship through graduation and beyond
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Free, no-risk, no commitment consultation
Dual-Purpose K9 Academy
960 hours
A full-service program designed to take a green dog and new or experienced handler to operational readiness. Includes obedience, tracking/trailing, narcotics/explosives detection, apprehension, environmental exposure, tactical integration, and all required preparation for FDLE-K9 and USPCA certifications.
Who It’s For: Agencies needing a fully developed patrol/detection dog with a handler trained from the ground up.
Single-Purpose
Detection Academy
400 hours
A 400-hour program focused on odor imprinting, environmental exposure, pattern development, scenario-based work, and operational deployment for narcotics or explosives detection.
Who It’s For: Agencies seeking a reliable detection-only K9 without patrol or apprehension components.
Maintenance Training
for Active K9 Teams
24 hours/month
Structured ongoing training to keep teams sharp, confident, and deployment-ready. Includes detection refreshers, tracking tune-ups, scenario rotations, and performance documentation.
Who It’s For: Agencies wanting long-term reliability and continued compliance with certification standards.
Remedial Training Program
30 calendar days
A focused program for dogs or handlers who need troubleshooting, skill rebuilding, or reconditioning in any patrol or detection discipline.
Who It’s For: Units experiencing performance decline, behavioral challenges, or failed certification attempts.
Recertification & Troubleshooting
Intensive short-term training to prepare teams for annual certifications, or to address specific operational concerns such as fringe-odor issues, environmental hesitation, or tactical decision-making.
Who It’s For: Active teams needing support during certification cycles or post-deployment evaluations.
Professional Support Services
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Hourly Sessions
Private, targeted work for agencies who need assistance with a specific skill, scenario, or deployment behavior.
Who It’s For: Teams needing quick, focused intervention or supplemental training.
Introductory Training
for New Agencies
Three to five free sessions
We offer introductory sessions to agencies exploring K9 program development. This includes evaluation of prospective handlers, basic dog assessments, and foundational detection/patrol demonstrations.
Who It’s For: Departments considering launching a K9 unit or transitioning to a new provider.
Required Equipment Package
Includes essential handling equipment, long lines, bite sleeves, detection tools, deployment gear, and all items needed to begin operational training.
Who It’s For: New K9 teams ready to launch their program with proper gear.
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K9 Acquisition &
Selection Support
Pricing varies
We source and assist agencies in selecting high-quality green or pre-trained dogs from trusted vendors. Dogs are vetted for health, temperament, environmental stability, and suitability for patrol and detection work.
Who It’s For: Agencies wanting guidance in choosing their next partner with confidence.
Upcoming Seminars & Workshops
We regularly host specialized seminars for handlers and decoys focused on nutrition, canine behavior, husbandry, operational handling and bite development.
These events are designed to sharpen skills, expand knowledge, and elevate team performance in real-world deployments.
Contact us for upcoming seminar dates, availability, and agency registration options.
