Here are some of our detection teams working the 2005-06 Intel National Conference.

Our dogs are trained to extremely high standards. Our weekly standards exceed that of California P.O.S.T. Annual standards. All are well socialized, and can work in any environment with confidence. All teams have been through rigorous training in order to certifiy, and we continuously update and refine our dogs' skills and abilities. Although there are several breeds that are capable of doing detection work. So-Cal K9 uses 4 breeds of dogs. Below is a chart and brief description of all of the breeds we employ.

German Shepherds



Varying in color from black/tan, black/red, black/cream, solid black, sable, and black/silver. The traits of keen intelligence and trainability have made the German Shepherd arguably the most versatile breed in history. The German Shepherd appears self-confident. He must be approachable, quietly standing his ground and showing confidence and willingness to meet overtures without making them himself.


Life Expectancy:
12–13 years

Weight Range:
75–95 lbs.

Type of Service:
Police Work, Protection, Tracking, Rescue, Explosvies and Narcotics Detection

Belgian Malinois



The Malinois is fawn colored with a black mask. The breed is confident, exhibiting neither shyness nor aggressiveness in new situations. The dog may be reserved with strangers but is affectionate with his own people. He is naturally protective of his owner’s person and property without being overly aggressive. He possesses a strong desire to work and is quick and responsive to commands from his owner.


Life Expectancy:
12–14 years

Weight Range:
40–80 lbs.

Type of Service:
Military, Law Enforcement, Corporate Security, Explosvies and Narcotics Detection

Dutch Shepherds



A short-haired dog with colors varying in shades of brindle, including gray, yellow, silver, red or gold brindle, and blue. Dutch Shepherds are active, lively and alert workers who are obedient, sober and very loyal to their handler. Intelligent and easy to train and eager to learn — they learn new commands quite easily. Need little care and can withstand fatigue and bad weather.


Life Expectancy:
12–14 years

Weight Range:
65–67 lbs.

Type of Service:
Police Work, Corporate Security, Explosives and Narcotic Detection

Labrador Retrievers



The Labrador Retriever is a solid, muscular dog, slightly longer than tall, with a short, hard, easy-care, water-resistant double coat that does not have any waves and comes in solid black, yellow, or chocolate. The Labrador Retriever is highly intelligent, loyal, willing, and high-spirited. They have an excellent, reliable temperament.


Life Expectancy:
10–12 years

Weight Range:
55–75 lbs.

Type of Service:
Tracking, Rescue, Explosvies and Narcotics Identification

Certification Program

SO-CAL K-9 DETECTION, with the help of the International Detection Canine Foundation, is striving to build a certification standard and process that will be nationally recognized and respected. Our curriculum does not allow the "just pass me" type of evaluation. Our certification standards surpass those of the California Police Officer Standards of Training (POST). Our weekly training regimen typically exceeds the monthly requirements of most departments.