Contact K9 Units

Introduction

Contacting K9 units is an important concern for many people - whether for applications, volunteer work, cooperation requests or general information. This guide shows you all important contact methods and contact persons so that you can quickly and easily reach the right people.

Contact Methods Overview

There are various ways to get in touch with K9 units. The choice of the right contact method depends on your concern.

Contact Persons by Concern

Applications and Career

For applications as dog handlers or other positions in K9 units, there are special contact persons. These are usually located in the personnel department or with the head of the respective K9 unit.

Important information for applications:

1. Submit complete application documents
2. Attach proof of personal suitability
3. References from trainers or supervisors
4. Current police clearance certificate
5. Proof of physical fitness
6. Proof of psychological resilience

Further details can be found in our article about the dog handler profession.

Volunteer Work

For those interested in volunteer work, there are dedicated contact persons. These inform about requirements, deployment options and the application process.

Checklist for volunteer application:

• Have personal suitability checked
• Clarify time availability
• Meet basic requirements
• Schedule information meeting
• Prepare application documents
• Attend orientation appointment

Detailed information on volunteer work can be found here.

Cooperation Requests

For cooperation requests from other organizations, companies or institutions, there are special contact persons. These handle inquiries about joint projects, training or events.

Press and Media

Journalists and media representatives should best contact the press office or the responsible contact person for public relations directly. These are happy to provide information, image material and interview partners.

General Inquiries

For general questions about K9 units, their tasks or training opportunities, you can contact the central information office. This forwards inquiries to the appropriate specialist departments if necessary.

Further frequently asked questions can be found in our FAQ section.

Contact Information by Organization Type

Police K9 Units

Police K9 units are usually reachable through local police stations. Contact information varies depending on the federal state and municipality.

Contact methods:

• Through the local police station
• Directly through the police K9 unit (if known)
• Through the police press office for media inquiries
• Through the citizen's office for general inquiries

Search and Rescue K9 Units

Search and rescue K9 units are often organized through aid organizations such as the German Red Cross, the Johanniter or the Workers' Samaritan Federation. Contact is made through the respective organization.

Customs K9 Units

Customs K9 units are reachable through local customs offices or customs investigation. For applications, there are special job postings.

Private K9 Units

Private K9 units have individual contact methods. Information can often be found on the websites of the respective organizations or through organizations and associations.

Important Contact Persons

For detailed information on specific contact persons at national, regional and international levels, we refer to our comprehensive contact persons overview.

Tips for Successful Contact

Preparation

Before making contact, you should think about the following points:

1. Formulate clear concern: What do you want to achieve?
2. Gather relevant information: Which details are important?
3. Find appropriate contact person: Who is responsible?
4. Choose appropriate contact method: Which method is best?

Communication

When making contact, you should:

• Remain polite and respectful
• Formulate precisely and clearly
• Provide all relevant information
• Have realistic expectations
• Be patient

Follow-up

If you don't receive a response:

• Maintain appropriate waiting time (at least 1 week)
• Politely follow up
• Use alternative contact methods
• For urgent matters, follow up by phone

Common Mistakes When Making Contact

Special Contact Situations

Emergencies

In emergencies, you should always call the emergency number 110 (police) or 112 (fire department/emergency services). K9 units are automatically alerted if needed.

Public Events

Many K9 units present themselves at public events, trade fairs or open house days. This is a good opportunity to make personal contact and get information.

Social Media

Some K9 units are also reachable via social media. This can be an informal way to make initial contacts, but should not be the primary contact method for official inquiries.

Checklist for Making Contact

Before making contact:

• Concern clearly defined
• Appropriate contact person identified
• Relevant information gathered
• Appropriate contact method chosen
• Realistic expectations formulated

When making contact:

• Polite address chosen
• All important information provided
• Contact details correctly stated
• Appropriate response time planned

After making contact:

• Wait patiently for response
• Politely follow up if necessary
• Use alternative contact methods if needed
• Accept feedback constructively

Last updated: October 21, 2025