SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol has welcomed six new K-9 teams to strengthen public safety efforts across the state.
The teams graduated today from the CHP’s K-9 training facility in West Sacramento.
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Five Belgian Malinois and one German Shepherd are now trained to detect narcotics, explosives, and criminal suspects. Notably, this is the first class to receive fentanyl detection training from day one—an important step in addressing California’s opioid epidemic.
“These new K-9 teams have demonstrated incredible dedication and skill throughout their training,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “They’re not just protecting our communities—they’re enhancing our department’s ability to fight crime and save lives.”
The newly deployed teams will serve across various regions, including the Coastal, Golden Gate, Valley, Border, and Inland field divisions. Each handler brings between six and 17 years of experience to the role, providing strong and experienced leadership.
The class includes:
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Three Patrol and Narcotics Detection Canine (PNDC) teams
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One Patrol and Explosives Detection Canine (PEDC) team
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Two Narcotics Detection Canine (NDC) teams
All teams completed rigorous training based on the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training guidelines.
With these additions, the CHP now operates 50 active K-9 teams statewide. In 2024 alone, CHP canines helped seize nearly 823 pounds of fentanyl, underscoring their crucial role in drug enforcement.
