Private security and individual buyers

A different market

Agencies buy through procurement and certify through law-enforcement associations. Private security firms and individuals sit outside that pipeline. Some providers do offer trained dogs to private clients, and some advertise "police K9" for dogs with no police history. The NPCA describes its own programs as serving law enforcement and security professionals, so security handlers are not excluded from training, but that does not make a dog "police."

Claims that need proof

• "Ex-police" or "police bred": ask for documents that show where the dog came from.
• "Certified": ask which body, which discipline and the date.
• "Proven in the field": ask for references from a client you can call.
• "Guaranteed": treat as a warning and request the written warranty terms.

Legal and insurance checks for a company

Rules on dogs in security work, licensing of guard companies and use of force differ by state and city. This guide does not summarize them. Contact your state's security-licensing authority, your insurer and an attorney before deploying any dog, and keep the replies in writing.

Practical questions for any provider

1. Who has handled and trained this dog, and for how long?
2. What does the handler course for my staff involve?
3. What are the maintenance and recertification expectations?
4. What are the written terms if the dog is unsuitable?

Another route for some buyers is adoption of a retired dog, explained on the retired dogs page.

Quick answers