Can ex-police or armed forces dogs become good pets? 

When we think of police or military dogs, images of powerful German Shepherds leaping into action and pursuing suspects, or super-focussed spaniels sniffing out drugs probably comes to mind. These dogs are elite working animals, carefully selected and trained for roles that require sharp intelligence, exceptional obedience, and intense drive. But what happens when these dogs retire? Can they transition from highly trained working dogs to loving, manageable pets? 

The short answer is yes – but not always, and not in every home. The suitability of an ex-police or armed forces dog as a pet depends on a variety of factors, including their temperament, training, and the environment they’re placed into after service. 

What roles do police and military dogs have? 

Before considering their potential as pets, it’s important to understand the different roles these dogs have performed during their careers. These working environments shape not just their skills, but also their behaviours and expectations of the world. 

1. Protection and guard dogs 

These dogs are trained to be assertive and physically capable of neutralizing threats. They are scary dogs; they have to be – it’s their job. However, their aggression is under incredible control. They are highly trained to attack only when commanded to do so. They may have undergone bite work training, learned to control and subdue suspects, or protect property and people. They are highly obedient but can be reactive, and their loyalty to their handler is typically very strong. Breeds typically suited to this work are German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois. 

2. Detection dogs  

Detection dogs, often called sniffer dogs, are trained to identify specific scents—drugs, explosives, firearms, or even currency. They often have a very high prey drive or play drive, which is channelled into their work through reward-based training. These dogs are typically non-aggressive and extremely focused. Many breeds can be trained to be detection dogs, but Spaniels and Labradors are particularly common.  

3. Search and rescue dogs 

These dogs are trained to locate missing persons in various environments, from collapsed buildings in war zones to dense forests and mountains. They are energetic, agile and fearless, even in high-stress situations. They are often very sociable dogs, being instinctively driven to find people. 

Selection of police dogs 

The selection process for police and military dogs is far from random. It starts before birth – they are usually bred from working parents, so their natural genetics already stands them in good stead to be a successful working dog. Even before any training has started, dogs need to show natural confidence and courage in new environments. Those who want to enter an unfamiliar dark room to explore, and whose ears prick at loud noises will be selected and go on to be trained. If any hesitation, anxiety or apathy is apparent in their natural character, no amount of training will ever make them a successful police dog. All training is done by positive reinforcement, so they need to have a strong desire to play and please too. 

Training police dogs 

The training is very specific to their intended role. Once the dogs are selected (often as puppies), experienced trainers and handlers will teach them the skills they need. All dogs will need a high level of general obedience training and be strongly motivated to learn and work. They will then need to excel at their specific training e.g. strong sniffing instincts or controlled aggression. If they fail the training process, they are re-homed as a pet. Only the best succeed.  

In general, police dogs are assigned to a single dog handler; a police officer who works with their assigned dog often for the whole of the dog’s working life. They live at home with their handlers to ensure the bond between them is as strong as possible. This is vital as all successful partnerships are based on complete trust between the pair. Ask any dog handler – it’s really quite a special relationship. The handler will know the dog inside out and manage them at home accordingly. For instance, a Springer Spaniel sniffer dog may enjoy curling up with the kids after a day’s work, whereas a Belgian Malinois protection dog may be better suited to a quiet house with their own kennel space. 

From service to civilian – what happens when duty ends? 

Just like us, the time will come when police dogs need to hang up their harness and retire from a working role due to age or illness. Younger dogs who don’t make it through the rigorous training programme or need to stop working due to physical injury or psychological trauma (e.g. from working in war zones) also need to be re-homed. 

So, what happens to these dogs in retirement? 

1. Adopted by their handler 

Often the dog’s handler will adopt them when their working career is over. Police and military dogs are chosen for their strong working drive and temperament, but this comes with pros and cons when changing from a busy, highly stimulated working dog into a pet. The handlers know their dogs better than anyone, all their quirks and habits, and the dog is already fully integrated into the handler’s home. Particularly with protection dogs, these handlers also have complete control over the dog’s behaviour. Where a dog has been encouraged to show aggression for their whole career, it would be dangerous to expect them to live with someone that was not able to ‘read’ their behaviour and safely control it.  

2. Re-homed to a member of the public 

Sometimes it is not possible for the handler to adopt their working dog. In this case, the dogs are put up for re-homing. The re-homing process is very strict and in all cases the dog is ideally matched with their new owners.  

It is generally done in several stages through your local police force or military organisation: 

• Applicants need to match the eligibility criteria 

• Fill in a detailed application form 

• The Dog Unit will contact you if a match is found 

• A home check by a police officer will be carried out, and a check of any police records in your name  

• Pay the fee and meet your dog! 

Would I be a good fit to re-home a police dog? 

Re-homing an ex-police dog shouldn’t be under-estimated. They are very disciplined, highly trained dogs but also have a high need for stimulation (both mental and physical) which will continue into retirement. Homes that can provide the dogs with a ‘purpose’ such as ongoing training, scent games, agility, or even therapy work often find the dogs much more content. In general, a good ‘fit’ would be an already experienced dog owner. You will understand dog (and ideally breed specific) behaviour, have a structured environment and can manage ongoing training. 

Someone with an active lifestyle is also generally needed. These dogs usually need regular exercise and engagement. A sedentary household may not be suitable unless the dog is particularly elderly or has medical needs. 

Often, but not always, a house without children or small pets is preferable. Many ex-service detection dogs are very sociable, but others may be less tolerant of unpredictable environments like those with small children or other animals.  

Financial implications – no pension for these heroes! 

Unlike their human counterparts, ex-service dogs do not receive pensions or financial support once they retire. Once they are rehomed, the full responsibility for their care falls entirely on the new owner. This may come as a surprise considering the years of service these dogs have given. You must assess your financial capacity to care for them long-term. These dogs may have served loyally for many years and now it’s your turn to give back, ensuring they live out their retirement content and comfortable. 

Costs will include: 

Financial help 

There are a few charities that recognise the value these dogs have given in service and aim to provide financial support to them after retirement.  

The Thin Blue Paw is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting both serving and retired police dogs. They can help subsidise veterinary costs, especially for service-related health issues, and often provide grants or assistance for dogs in urgent need.  

The National Foundation for Retired Service Animals is a similar charity which supports retired emergency service animals (e.g. police dogs and horses, border force dogs, prison dogs, NHS dogs and national crime agency dogs) with veterinary bills.  

Final thoughts 

The transition from active duty to retirement can be challenging. Dogs used to highly stimulating work may experience boredom, anxiety, or confusion. Ex-police and military dogs can absolutely make excellent pets—but they are not for everyone. Their past roles shape their personalities, and while many are affectionate, loyal and eager to please, their need for structure, stimulation and proper handling remain high. 

If you are one of the few lucky people who get to share your life with a retired hero, you’ll find that their loyalty and intelligence make for a very rewarding relationship. These dogs may be leaving duty behind, but they still have so much love (and energy!) to give.