K-9 Unit

The Martin County Sheriff's Office Canine Unit was established in the 1980s and has since been a leader in the law enforcement field, setting the standards for police departments and sheriff's offices throughout the state and region.

Martin County Sheriff's Office Canine

Meet the Team

The Martin County Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit is comprised of five canines and deputies. 

These deputies were specially selected as canine handlers with the goal of utilizing man’s best friend to protect and serve the citizens of Martin County to the best of their abilities. 

A photo of the MCSO K9 Teams

Selection & Training

The canines are typically purchased between the ages of 1 and 3 years old after an extensive selection process. Each canine is then specially trained in criminal apprehension, tracking/trailing, and narcotics detection. The canine team spends a minimum of 480 hours, and sometimes up to 1000 hours, of intensive training before certifying through the Florida Law Enforcement Canine’s Association to begin working. Upon competition of canine school, the canine teams continue to train weekly to achieve the proficiency of a high standard set forth. The canine and their handlers are continuously training throughout their years of service together.

The handlers and their dogs conduct searches for narcotics, evidence, and articles, as well as tracking and apprehending suspects. The dogs are specially selected for their temperament, intelligence, and suitability for police work. Our service dog teams have been credited with apprehending numerous felons and recovering narcotic contraband. They also regularly conduct crime prevention demonstrations for civic organizations.

Functions

The Martin County Sheriff'S Office canines perform a variety of functions in the support of field operations:

Each K-9 vehicle is specially equipped with the latest technology to assure the canines inside are safe and in a climate-controlled environment. If you see our K-9 unit out in your neighborhood or business area, they are likely training in a real-world environment or working hard to locate and apprehend a criminal. When not at work, MCSO’s canines go home and live with their handlers whom they form a unique and special bond with.