Police officer cuddles his silly K9 partner — viral clip shows how police dogs are misunderstood

A recent Reddit clip challenged the classic image of police dogs as aggressive, and internet users can't help but go 'aww' at the adorable sight. The footage, posted by u/LowDetail1442, showcased a police officer on duty fondly hugging and giving gentle scratches on the back of a German Shepherd police dog. The clip instantly became an internet favorite and received a lot of love and attention from Reddit users, garnering more than 6.7K upvotes so far.

The short video clip shows a group of policemen filling up the street. Their blue berets and relaxed smiles paint a calmer, more jovial atmosphere than we're used to. As the camera zooms in, our eyes fall on a silly pup completely lost in the ecstasy of getting scratches from his owner. Without their uniforms, no one would've tagged him as a 'police dog.' It almost feels unreal, like we have witnessed something we're not supposed to — like reality has changed overnight. But the truth is: police dogs aren't the monsters popular media has made them out to be. 

Common myth of inherent aggression

 In reality, police dogs are highly trained to follow commands and only act aggressively when necessary. Off-duty, many of these canines love to play with kids, are gentle, and extremely affectionate towards others. 

Police dogs are not solely trained for attacking

This is another myth. Police dogs are actually trained for a wide range of tasks; these non-aggressive roles include detecting drugs, explosives, firearms, or missing persons. Some of these are also trained for rescue missions.

A false reputation has hurt the German Shepherd breed

Police dogs don't solely include German Shepherds, although that is the first image people think of. While they are certainly one of the most recognizable breeds in police work, thanks to their strength, intelligence, and loyalty, they are far from the only breed serving in K9 units. People often picture German Shepherds as fierce police dogs, chasing down suspects or tackling someone on the run. This image has contributed to the breed’s reputation for being aggressive. According to Jolly Pets, German Shepherds were originally bred as herding dogs, which means they were trained to protect and guide flocks of sheep. This background makes them extremely loyal, obedient, and protective, traits that carry over into both their police work and family life. In homes, many German Shepherds are gentle and watchful companions, often naturally taking on a guardian role with children, looking after them like their own 'flock'. 

Furthermore, in addition to German Shepherds, law enforcement also relies on breeds like Belgian Malinois, Bloodhounds, and Labrador Retrievers. These canines are selected for their specific abilities and traits. For example, Bloodhounds are often used for detecting drugs and tracking missing people or criminals, due to their excellent sense of smell.

Police dogs aren't 'on the clock' 24/7

People often believe the animals are always on duty, shying away from them at any given point of the day. In reality, they get their downtime just like humans and other working animals as well. Most of the police dogs live with their handlers in regular homes that allow them enough relaxing time, rest, and playful sessions. 

Police officers usually take their K9 home

These dogs often play in the yard, cuddle on the couch, and even sleep indoors, in the same bedroom as their handler. According to a recent survey, this close bond between the handlers and their canine partners also promotes greater work satisfaction. Out of 255 officers surveyed, most regularly played with, talked to, and groomed their dogs, saying the dogs improved their well-being. Those whose dogs slept indoors, especially in the same bedroom, described them as calm, loved them more, and were likelier to stay in K9 work. 

Police dogs, just like others, are fond of affection, want love, belonging, and a safe home.