Veteran K-9 trainer writes book about experiences

By Cherry Sokoloski
North Forty News

At many events around Larimer County, demonstrations by K-9 units are a big hit with the public. Whether it's a demo by drug-sniffing dogs or one in which a "suspect" is tracked and apprehended, most people are fascinated by the intelligence and training of police dogs.

Now, for those who want to "read all about it," there's a new book on the subject, authored by veteran K-9 trainer Joe Clingan with Robert Whitson, a retired police officer. The coffee-table book, "A Dumb Animal at the End of the Leash: A Trained Police Dog at the Other!" includes valuable information for law enforcement agencies about forming a K-9 unit. Clingan also shares many real-life stories about K-9s and their handlers, some humorous and some sad.

The easy-going style makes for an interesting and entertaining read, even for those who aren't involved in law enforcement. "There's a lot of police dog stuff, but the book is really for anyone who loves dogs," Clingan noted. Besides the interesting stories, Clingan has included a section on behavioral problems in dogs - and what to do about them.

For those involved with law enforcement and K-9 units, Clingan offers a wealth of information, including training tips, mistakes to avoid and how to select the best dogs and the best handlers for police work.

In his new book, Clingan makes a strong statement about his philosophy and values in training police dogs. "I split from the norm of police dog training," he said. Traditionally - and even today - police dogs are trained using harsh methods including shock treatment, striking and choking. "I just don't believe in force and brutality," Clingan said. "I learned over the years that you get a lot better response with positive reinforcement and praise. Hopefully a few people in law enforcement will read this book and give it a try."

Clingan's experience in K-9 work dates back to 1972. He started K-9 units for the Fort Collins Police Department, the Loveland Police Department and the Larimer County Sheriff's Office. After retiring as FCPD's K-9 Unit trainer in 1998, he continued to train dogs through his private business, Fort Collins Protection Dogs and Training. He currently trains about 50 dogs each year for police work and personal protection. He has also trained K-9 trainers in Germany and Russia.

Clingan credits his father for encouraging him to find a rewarding career. "He told me to find a job I really enjoyed doing and try to figure out a way to get paid for doing it," he said. Since he has always loved both dogs and police work, his K-9 career has been "a perfect marriage."

"A Dumb Animal at the End of the Leash: A Trained Police Dog at the Other!" is available for $45 at B Dalton's in Fort Collins or by calling the author at 568-0135. The publisher is Robert Whitson Publishing of Loveland.