What change in perception about police dogs was noted in the 1980s?

The noted change in perception about police dogs during the 1980s was the preference for German-bred shepherds with Schutzhund titles. This was driven by a growing recognition of the proven effectiveness of these dogs in law enforcement roles. Schutzhund titles indicate a dog's ability in protection, tracking, and obedience, making them particularly suitable for police work.

During this period, agencies began increasingly valuing the characteristics associated with German Shepherds, such as their temperament, physical capabilities, and loyalty, which were essential traits for police duties. The emphasis on these specific breeds with demonstrated competency in rigorous training programs further solidified their status as the standard in police canine units, underscoring a significant evolution in how police dogs were viewed and utilized in law enforcement.