Dog Support Unit

DS01. Any Officer may join a Handler on patrol.

DS02. Callsign RD-[NO.]

DS03. You must be wearing the Dog Handler Uniform to go out on DSU patrol.

DS04. You can start a chase but not lead it; if another unit joins, you’d go to the back of the pursuit taking the lead position again when necessary. Exceptions apply for Advanced Handlers. Tactical contact while in a DSU vehicle is FORBIDDEN, if seen doing this you can be removed/warned for endangering the dogs life. 

DS05. Do not abandon your dog under any circumstances. Always return your dog to the kennel.

DS06. You must interact with the dog at all times, giving clear and concise commands

DS7. Always do a risk assessment on your dog’s health. Following the Stay Safe Principle (SSP)

DS8 . Always provide medical treatment to bite victims. 

DS9. Advanced DSU can carry a firearm single crewed but ONLY in operations and with authorisation from DSU/PolOps command.

DS10. The DSU Helmet, Bandana and Helmet Armour can only be used under either of the following circumstances:

• • Operations

  • ZD patrols when cleared by TFC/OFC

  • When authorised DSU/Frontline Command or Adv Trainers

DS11. Helmet armour should be equipped before leaving the station and should only be put on an operation or when authorised by an OFC/TFC or when entering a major firearms situation (follow lead of AFO’s). Do not carry any helmet armour in your inventory or vehicle and do not take multiple from the armoury at once

DS12. Firearms may not take their primary weapon (SMG/Rifle) when acting as a Dog Handler 

DS13. Firearms SGT+ on a ZD patrol as a Dog Handler can use their firearms long sleeved top with full DSU uniform (This is the only exception to the DSU uniform)

Officers must remain in their current subunit for a minimum of 30 days before transferring to a different subunit. 

Use of the dog is a less than lethal option although will take down the suspect. It is important to remember to recall before suspect is severely injured. The dog can occasionally kill in one bite even if they are on full health.  Consideration should always be taken whether other uses of force are more appropriate situations. 

Dogs can be used to subdue a suspect when violent or fleeing It is the Dog Handlers responsibility to ensure the amount of force of a dog is not excessive and is considered reasonable force. Escalation must be with intent to accomplish the lawful purpose and always be proportional.

Use of force should be escalated in stages: Baton/tackle - Taser - Dog - Firearm

Within the Use of Force Continuum, Police Dogs can be deployed in three representations:

• • Indirect - Where the dog remains in the vehicle.

  • Interim - When the dog is out of the vehicle, by the officers side. Enhancing officer presence and seen as crowd control skill.

  • Direct - When the dog is deployed in situations where is it possible, likely or intended that the dog will bite. 

Laws set out in Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984

• Using the dog in self-defence of another person or a property, in prevention of a crime, or lawful arrest.

•  No use of force which may be considered inhuman or that which may be considered as degrading treatment. Justifying the use of a dog is necessary, sending it out or perhaps even showing its presence only if the situation calls for it. Only where all other methods of solving the situation have or would fail.

Dogs can be deployed on an armed suspect if the dog is not in line of sight of the firearm. We strongly discourage approaching firearms situations until you are Advanced trained as special methods and tactics apply to keep yourself and your dog safe with staying inline with legislation. 

• • If a firefight becomes unpredictable or too dangerous such as in a firearms incident / mass gun fight, the dog should be kept inside the safety of the car. 

  • If it is known that more than one suspect with a firearm or the suspect has a firearm larger than a pistol, engaging the police/public, where possible and practical the dog should be kept inside the DSU vehicle.

Our unit is extremely valuable to The Los Santos Police service. 

Within our unit, we hold steadfast to a set of core values that guide our actions and shape our identity. We prioritize teamwork, recognising that our strength lies in our ability to work together seamlessly. We value professionalism, maintaining the highest standards of conduct and accountability in all that we do. Integrity is paramount, as we uphold honesty, transparency, and ethical practices. We embrace adaptability, constantly evolving and innovating to meet the dynamic challenges of modern policing. With a deep sense of commitment, compassion, and respect, we serve as dedicated stewards of public safety, earning the trust and confidence of the community we proudly serve. 

We value to develop and understand key skills within the unit, these include:

• Patience

• Organisation

• Leadership

• Decision Making

• Ability to work under pressure

• Communication

• Management

Our Dog Support Unit is an essential part of The Los Santos Police Department, dedicated to upholding public safety through the use of highly trained canines and skilled handlers. By joining our unit, you become part of a cohesive team driven by excellence, professionalism, and a deep commitment to serving the community. With opportunities to make a tangible difference in suspect apprehension, search operations, and crowd control, joining our unit offers a rewarding and impactful career path within law enforcement. 

If you are interested in joining please apply above and be sure to look out for our command or our dedicated trainers.

If you are interested in becoming a payed trainer please contact the DSU Sergeant.

Please note known issues on the server:

Dogs will attack the handler if it can not find a route to attack the suspect

Dogs get confused with custom buildings 

Dogs will fall out of car 

Game crash when calling dog after leaving in vehicle and walking away