K9 Unit

The El Dorado County Sheriff 's Office Canine Unit was started in 1981 and has evolved since its inception. The Department fields six canine teams which are assigned to the patrol division. Our patrol canine teams consist of German Shepherds, Belgium Malinois and Labrador Retrievers.

Four of the canine teams are trained in suspect apprehension. These canines are utilized in area searches, building searches, tracking and handler protection. These teams are cross trained in either article or narcotics detection. The other two canine teams are trained for narcotics detection only. Each canine team is on call 24 hours a day to assist as necessary.

The canine teams have been successfully utilized in the apprehension of armed and violent criminals, locating hidden narcotics, and discovering crime related evidence. The canine teams also perform educational demonstrations at local schools and other community events. The K-9 unit is one of the elite units within the Sheriff's Office.

Patrol

K9 Unit