Physically Fit

• Ensure that you are in optimal physical condition as you may be required to pass a physical fitness assessment as part of the interview process. Running, traversing an obstacle course and carrying the K-9 on your shoulder are just a few of the possible tests that could be administered.
  
  

Research

• Conduct research on the position of K-9 officers to ensure that you possess the necessary skills and what you may need to learn before the interview. Find out what is expected of K-9 handlers, what the training will consist of, and how and when the K-9 will be used for law enforcement in the particular district conducting the interview.
  
  

Case Law

• Update yourself on case law. Frequent legal updates and case studies will aide you in providing answers that are in line with all the current information.
  
  

Standard Operating Procedures

• Be prepared to answer questions regarding the standard operating procedures of K-9 handlers. Questions will be asked about how the interviewee would handle care of the dog, releasing the dog during dangerous situations and entering buildings with the K-9, just to name a few.
  
  

Practice

• Enlist the help of a trusted friend to ask random questions that you may hear during the interview. Even though you may not end up with these exact questions, it will help you adjust to being asked surprise questions and reduce the possibility of floundering when caught off guard.
  
  

Confidence

• Confidence is required when handling a K-9 in any situation. Do not rehearse answers to recite verbatim, rather, ensure that you are knowledgeable about K-9s and the position to deliver your answers with confidence.