San Diego City Wire

Four new dogs trained in detecting explosives and firearms are now on duty with the K-9 Unit of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.

K-9s Archer, Bear, Dexter, and Nalla are exclusively trained in detecting explosives and firearms. They serve as a regional resource, allowing them to respond to calls from other law enforcement agencies to enhance safety across San Diego County.

The Explosives Detection K-9s completed a ten-week academy and undergo regular testing and routine training to maintain their skills.

Their specialized roles make them essential in large crowd situations such as concerts, sporting events, festivals, parades, airports, transportation hubs, dignitary visits, active shooter incidents, and other high-risk scenarios. They can detect even the slightest traces of explosive materials and gunpowder, providing a critical layer of protection in communities.

All the dogs are one year old. The yellow and red Labrador Retrievers each cost around $6,500. The non-profit organization Honorary Deputy Sheriff’s Association funded the purchase of the dogs and contributed an additional $12,000 for specialized equipment.

The Sheriff’s K-9 Unit was established in 1967. It currently has a total of 28 dogs trained in various specialties including protection, article searches, tracking suspects or evidence, firearms detection, explosives detection, and drug detection. To become a K-9 handler, a deputy must have at least two years of experience working in patrols, detentions or courts. Both the deputy handler and K-9 must pass an academy and complete yearly certifications in each specialty.

For more information about the K-9 Unit or to apply as a deputy visit joinsdsheriff.net.