Police Dogs Officer Describing Smells Sense Follow Piece

Many "breeds" (types of an animal) of dogs have a very good sense of smell. For that reason, these dog breeds are often used as police dogs, which are also known as "K9s," meaning "canines" (dogs or dog-like animals).

A "public order enforcement dog" is used to help police officers "chase" (run after) "suspects" (people whom the police believe have committed a crime). These dogs can also help to protect the police officer by "attacking" (physically fighting against) a criminal, if necessary. These are usually large, strong, and intelligent dogs.

A "tracking dog" is used to "track" (find where someone has gone and follow that direction) criminals or people who have become lost. The dog might be given a small piece of the person's clothing and then be told to track that person. The police officers follow the dog until the person is found.

An "illicit substances dog" is used to find drugs or "explosive devices" (bombs). These dogs are often seen at airports where they "sniff" (smell something by breathing in loudly through one's nose) suitcases. If the dog "detects" (finds something), it points to the suitcase until the police officer comes over and opens it.

Finally, a "cadaver dog" is used to find "cadavers" (dead bodies) through its sense of smell. With the right training, some dogs can even smell cadavers that are underwater.

Police dogs are "valued" (respected and honored) members of the "police force" (a group of police officers). Sometimes they are given their own "badges" (a piece of metal worn to identify oneself as a police officer or firefighter). When the dogs are "killed in the line of duty" (killed while working), they are often given a full police "funeral" (the ceremony held after someone dies).