Police dogs, or K-9s, play vital roles in law enforcement, assisting in tracking criminals, detecting drugs or explosives, and finding missing persons. However, once they retire, their futures changed significantly thanks to Robby’s Law, signed by Bill Clinton in 2000. Before this law, retired service dogs were often euthanized when they could no longer work. Now, they can be adopted by their handlers, which is the most common and ideal outcome due to their strong bond. Organizations like the Retired Police Canine Foundation and the National Police Dog Foundation also support these retired heroes by covering veterinary costs, raising awareness, and improving their quality of life. In rare cases, civilians may adopt retired K-9s typically when a handler passes away or when a dog cannot complete training after passing a strict screening process.
Source:
Police dogs: What happens after retirement? (2025, January 20). Hot Dog on a Leash. https://hotdogonaleash.com/police-dogs-what-happens-after-retirement/