Canine Unit

The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office has had an active canine unit since 1974. It is the second oldest continuing K9 program in northern Illinois outside of Cook County. The unit is comprised of two canine teams that can respond to different types of calls that can benefit from the use of the K9. The teams are used for narcotics detection, article searches, tracking of lost individuals or suspects, apprehension of criminals, building searches, and handler protection. The canine teams participate in continual monthly training to keep these necessary skills sharp.