PHOENIX — The Phoenix Police Department is seeking public input as it looks to overhaul its canine policy, proposing changes that tighten the rules on how and when police dogs are deployed while increasing documentation and oversight.
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The department opened a 45‑day public comment period in April on a draft policy that would guide all K‑9 operations, from training and deployment to care and retirement.
A major change is increased documentation requirements tied to K‑9 use.
Officers would be required to document each deployment more thoroughly, including the circumstances leading up to it and whether a bite occurred. The policy also calls for stronger supervisory review of those incidents.
The updated standards are designed to improve transparency and accountability in how police use canines, City leaders said.
In addition to deployment rules, the proposed policy expands guidance on:
- Handler selection and training
- Care, housing and equipment standards for dogs
- Procedures for retiring police canines
- Protocols for dogs injured in the line of duty
Phoenix police and the City of Phoenix are encouraging residents to review the draft and submit feedback before the policy is finalized.
Officials say comments gathered during the review period will be considered as the department finalizes the updated rules governing its K‑9 unit.
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