Canine Unit
Police service dogs have a demanding job, but they are specifically bred and selected for the drive and temperament to do it well. Each dog is carefully assessed for their health, stability, strong work ethic, and ability to learn and respond to training.
Once paired with a handler, the dog and officer begin building a highly coordinated working partnership. Together, they complete extensive training that develops obedience, tracking skills, building and outdoor searches, evidence detection, and safe apprehension techniques. This training ensures the team can operate effectively in a wide range of high-risk and fast-moving situations.
Echo
Echo is a 5-year-old Belgian Malinois. He joined the service in 2022.
New dog
On April 9, 2026, the Guelph Police Service welcomed a new police service dog to the canine unit, a one-year-old Belgian Malinois/German Shepherd mix.
The new canine team has started their training. The dog and handler will begin serving the community once their training is complete.
Help us name our new dog
Thanks to everyone who voted on the name. The results are in, and the community has chosen Kilo as the name of the Guelph Police Service’s newest police service dog. A total of 977 votes were cast, with Kilo receiving 63 per cent of the vote.
Thanks to everyone who took part in welcoming Kilo to the Guelph Police Service. We look forward to sharing updates when he officially begins serving the community.
Off-duty life
Police service dogs live with their handlers, who are responsible for their care and must maintain secure kennels at home. Although a strong working bond develops between the handler and the dog, they are not considered family pets. Police service dogs are highly trained working animals and operational tools, bred and conditioned to support law enforcement duties and respond reliably in high-risk situations.