The Queensland Police Service (QPS) Dog Squad is an integral arm of effective, statewide policing. Handlers and their dogs spend many hours together training, working and living, establishing a formidable partnership to combat crime.
The QPS Dog Squad consists of 62 general purpose dogs, five firearm and explosive detection dogs and 10 drug detection police dog teams operating throughout the State.
General purpose police dogs are usually German Shepherds however the dog squad is not restricted to this breed. Labradors have been trained for arson, explosive and drug detection while two Belgian Shepherds perform operational duties.
Dogs are employed and are effective in police work due to their superior senses, particularly smell and hearing. To train a police dog, the dog's natural hunting instinct is modified to suit specific requirements. The dog's senses are adapted for day-to-day work to provide specialised support for police.
Growing from a Brisbane based squad the QPS Dog Squad has now expanded and a police dog capability operates in every Region from Cairns in Far North Queensland, to the Gold Coast and Mount Isa in the west.
The number of operational handler/dog teams is constantly increasing as the demand for the dog squad’s specialised services grow. No experience or outside qualifications are required to train with a new police dog. Training is undertaken by suitable applicants on an internal, three month Police Dog Training Course conducted by the State Coordinator.
Naturally applicants must have a love of animals and possess the ability to work alone and at times unsupervised.
For further information on how to become a dog squad officer see www.policerecruit.qld.gov.au
This page is dedicated to the memory of Senior Constable Norm Watt.
Born 10-11-1967 died 21-7-2000 in the line of duty.
