An experimental examination of the perceptual paradox surrounding police canine units.

Abstract

ObjectivesTo experimentally examine public perceptions of police canine units.MethodsAs part of the between-subjects paradigm, participants were randomly assigned to view and rate an image of a police officer either with a police dog (i.e., as a police canine unit) or alone on eight dimensions: aggression, approachability, fairness, friendliness, intimidation, professionalism, respectfulness, and trustworthiness.ResultsThe analyses reveal that the officer was perceived more negatively when presented with a police dog than when presented alone.ConclusionsPolice dogs play a multifaceted role in policing, including in crime control and public relations. In addition to their many functions, police canine units can also elicit many perceptual effects.