What Language are Police Dogs Trained in?

Police dogs play a vital role in law enforcement around the world. They undergo training to help police officers in different ways, such as finding suspects, uncovering drugs and explosives, and locating missing individuals. 

The language police dogs are trained in is one of the most important aspects of police dog training. In this article, we will delve into the language used to train police dogs and how it impacts their effectiveness.

In what language are police dogs trained?

Police dogs are trained in a foreign language to prevent any confusion and ensure they respond only to their handler's instructions. Most police dogs are taught in German because German Shepherds are a preferred breed for law enforcement, and they originated in Germany or Belgium. 

These dogs are usually brought from Germany, their home country, and are given basic training in German before being imported to the US or other countries. This initial training in German makes it easier to expand on the commands they've already learned.

However, not all US police forces use German commands with their dogs. Some handlers find it challenging to learn German words to command their dogs so that they may retrain them in English or another language. While dogs can be trained in any language, some of the top languages used by dog trainers include German, Dutch, French, and Czech.

Why are police dogs trained in the German Language?

Police dogs are trained in German for several important reasons:

1. Standardization: Using German commands provides a standardized approach to training police dogs. This consistency is crucial, as police dogs go through various training stages, starting with basic obedience training, specialized training by a trainer, and eventually working with a handler. Using the same words for commands ensures clear communication throughout the training process.

2. Avoiding Confusion: Training police dogs in a foreign language helps prevent confusion and ensures they respond only to their handler's commands. Using a language that criminals are unlikely to understand makes it more challenging for unauthorized individuals to control the dog.

3. Heritage: German Shepherds are the preferred breed for law enforcement, and because they originated in Germany, they are often trained using German commands. Most police dogs are imported from Germany, where they receive basic training in German before being transferred to the US and other countries. This initial training in German makes it easier to build upon the commands they already know.

4. Sternness: Another theory behind using the German language for police dog training is the perceived sternness associated with the language. German is known for its firm and assertive sound, which can evoke obedience and attention from the dogs when spoken by their handlers.

These reasons collectively contribute to the widespread use of the German language in training police dogs, enhancing their effectiveness and reliability in law enforcement operations.

10 Common Police Dog Commands in German

German police dog commands are crucial for effectively training police dogs. These commands are the language used to communicate with the dogs and teach them specific behaviors. Here are some of the most common German police dog commands:

• Wach (guard): This command tells the dog to protect a specific area or person.
• Fass (attack): This command is used to instruct the dog to apprehend a suspect, typically by biting and holding on. It is reserved for situations where the suspect is considered a significant threat.
• Bring (retrieve): This command instructs the dog to retrieve an object and bring it back to the handler.
• Platz (down): This command tells the dog to lie down.
• Hier (come): This command instructs the dog to come to the handler.
• Bleib (stay): This command tells the dog to stay in one place.
• Such (search): This command instructs the dog to search for a specific object or person.
• Pass Auf (guard): Similar to "Wach," this command is used to instruct the dog to protect a specific area or person.
• Steh (stand): This command tells the dog to stand up.
•  Aus (let go): This command instructs the dog to release an object from its mouth.

It's essential to emphasize that these commands should only be used by trained professionals, such as police officers or military personnel. Using these commands without proper training can be dangerous and may result in injury to the dog or others.

How does language affect police dog performance?

The language used in police dog training can significantly affect the dog's performance. Dogs are more likely to respond well to commands given in a language they know, and they might struggle to understand commands in an unfamiliar language.

For example, if a German-trained police dog is brought to the United States and given commands in English, it may take time for the dog to get used to the new language. During this adjustment period, the dog's performance may be affected, and it might not respond as quickly or effectively to commands.

Similarly, if a police dog is trained in multiple languages and the handler switches between them, the dog could become confused. This confusion can lead to a drop in performance and may even create risks for the dog and its handler. Consistency in language is crucial for effective communication and performance in police dog training.

Conclusion

Police dogs are trained in various languages, with German being the most prevalent. The use of a foreign language in police dog training offers several advantages, and positive reinforcement techniques play a key role in training these highly skilled animals.

The language used in police dog training serves as a vital means for handlers to communicate with their dogs and reinforce specific behaviors. The selection of language can significantly influence the dog's performance, making it crucial for handlers to be mindful of the language used in training to ensure the dog's safety and effectiveness.