The Texas Department of Public Safety graduated nine new K-9 teams and four certified K-9 Tech Trainers Thursday in Austin. The specialized units will deploy statewide for narcotics detection, explosives screening, and fugitive tracking.
The expansion brings DPS’s K-9 program to 85 handlers and their canine partners within its 100-person division. The additional teams address growing demands for drug interdiction and security at public events across Texas.
“Our K-9 teams are an integral part of the DPS family and play a vital role in our mission to protect and serve the people of Texas,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “Whether they are detecting explosives, tracking fugitives, or uncovering drugs, these dogs and their handlers demonstrate extraordinary dedication and courage every day.”
The department now fields 56 narcotics detection dogs, 15 explosives detection teams, and 14 tracking specialists. Breeds include German Shepherds, Dutch Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Labrador Retrievers, and one Vizsla.
Each team completed 15 weeks of intensive training, including six weeks of pre-training for the dogs and nine weeks of joint instruction with their handlers. Three individuals earned K-9 Tech Trainer certifications after completing 250 credit hours.
Six teams specialized in narcotics detection, two in explosives detection, and one in tracking. K-9 Stark, trained for long-distance scent pursuits, can follow trails up to 16 miles through varied terrain.
Handlers also received medical training for their canine partners, focusing on heat-related injuries and trauma care.
DPS operates one of the nation’s most rigorous K-9 programs, designed to prepare teams for high-pressure investigations and emergency response across Texas.