
Established in 1988 with a single Police Service Dog (PSD), the Niagara Regional Police Canine Unit has since grown into a vital component of the Niagara Regional Police Service. Today, the unit includes seven patrol dogs, each specifically trained to support frontline policing and public safety. Among them, three dogs are cross-trained in narcotics detection, two in explosive detection, and two in firearm detection.

The unit is comprised of German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois, breeds selected for their intelligence, physical capability, and strong temperament—qualities that are essential in high-pressure situations. Each Police Service Dog is trained in a range of core functions including tracking, agility, article searches, building and open area searches, chase and apprehension, and handler protection.
Two of our PSDs are specially trained to support the Emergency Task Unit, attending all tactical operations to provide containment and support. Our handlers are on call 24/7, and each undergoes an initial intensive 15-week training program to develop a strong and effective partnership with their canine partner, along with on-going training.

Many of our dogs are imported from Belgium, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, sourced from breeders specializing in police and military working dogs.
The Canine Unit conducts numerous public demonstrations annually, providing an opportunity to showcase the unique skills of our canine teams and to educate the public about the vital role they play in ensuring community safety.
For more information, contact the Canine Unit of the Niagara Regional Police Service at (905) 688-4111 ext. 5540.
Consider following the NRPS Canine Unit on Instagram @NRPSK9
PSD Cain (K9-42)
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PSD Cain is a Belgian Malinois trained for patrol and cross-trained in firearms detection. PSD Cain was born in January 2023. Cain completed his course with Sgt. Vanderspek. |
PSD Duke (K9-41) |
PSD Duke is a German Shepherd trained for patrol and cross-trained in firearms detection. PSD Duke was born in April 2023. Duke completed his course with P.C. Vizza |
PSD Maverick (K9-42) |
PSD Maverick is a 2 year old German Shepherd trained for patrol and cross-trained in explosive detection. PSD Maverick was born in October of 2017. PSD Maverick completed his course with his handler P.C. Wegelin in June of 2019. |
PSD Atlas (K9-43) |
PSD Atlas is a German Shepherd trained for patrol and cross-trained in narcotics detection. PSD Atlas was born in October of 2018. PSD Atlas completed his course with his handler P.C. Campbell in July of 2020. |
PSD Rudy (K9-44) |
PSD Rudy is a German Shepherd trained for patrol and cross-trained in narcotics detection. PSD Rudy was born in August of 2019. PSD Rudy completed his course with his handler P.C. Wiley in December of 2020. |
PSD Jax (K9-45) |
PSD Jax is a German Shepherd trained for patrol and cross-trained in explosive detection. PSD Jax was born in September of 2016. PSD Jax completed his course with his handler P.C. Van Riel in June of 2019. |
PSD Ranger (K9-46) |
PSD Ranger is a German Shepherd trained for patrol and cross-trained in narcotics detection. PSD Ranger was born in April of 2019. PSD Ranger completed his course with his handler P.C. Viger in July of 2020. |